I photographed the church service this morning. As I was walking out, I saw a colorful May pole leaning against the wall. It wasn't very photogenic by itself--I was too late to see people dance around it wrapping the colorful ribbons.
I tried to photograph Ellen and her father as they walked by the May pole, but they ducked to get out of the way. Then Ellen commented that it was like the sculpture her grandmother made for the chalice. I have long admired that chalice, but had no idea of the story behind it. A member of our congregation commissioned Ellen's grandmother to sculpt the it. I've known Ellen's mother (Ann) for quite awhile--we took at least one class together--but I never knew her mother was a sculptor.
I didn't think of the connection of the chalice to May Day until I heard that story, so I went back inside and photographed the May Day chalice. I like this close-up view the best.
When I was younger I went to a Catholic school and we had a huge celebration on May Day. In 3rd grade I was the May queen. It was so thrilling. Your photo brings back those days which I had forgotten. Also a wonderful photo and sculpture!
