Workshops and talks (Saturday)
Abbey – PANDHOF
Let’s put up a tree together. We’re going to paint a tree together, inspired by what Jesus says about the mustard seed. A tiny seed, yet from it grows a great tree in which all kinds of birds can nest.
Think also of: the tree planted by streams of water, the tree of life…
Each participant will receive a 36 cm by 28 cm canvas showing part of the tree. You can paint it however you like. The tree, the leaves, the birds, the surroundings – let your imagination run wild. Afterwards, we will join all the canvases together to form one large piece measuring almost 5m².
A tree in which we, as heavenly birds, may nest. We come from different churches, different backgrounds, different styles. We sometimes think differently, celebrate differently, sing differently… but we do belong to the same tree: to God, to the Kingdom.
That image fits beautifully with Mark 4:30-32, where Jesus says that the Kingdom of God is like a mustard seed: small at first, but growing into a large tree where heavenly birds can nest. A tree that provides space, that brings life, where everyone may have a place. Think also of the tree of life and the tree planted by streams of water. Revelation 22:2 and Psalm 1:3. Just like that tree, together we form something great, even if we each contribute only a small part, and all manner of birds find their place in this tree.
You are unique! And you’re searching for authenticity, depth and direction. You need answers. In this workshop, we’ll practise listening to the voice of the Eternal. Step by step, you’ll reach your destination. We’ll move from theory to practice.
Let’s put up a tree together. We’re going to paint a tree together, inspired by what Jesus says about the mustard seed. A tiny seed, yet from it grows a great tree in which all kinds of birds can nest.
Think also of: the tree planted by streams of water, the tree of life…
Each participant will receive a 36 cm by 28 cm canvas showing part of the tree. You can paint it however you like. The tree, the leaves, the birds, the surroundings – let your imagination run wild. Afterwards, we will join all the canvases together to form one large piece measuring almost 5m².
A tree in which we, as heavenly birds, may nest. We come from different churches, different backgrounds, different styles. We sometimes think differently, celebrate differently, sing differently… but we do belong to the same tree: to God, to the Kingdom.
That image fits beautifully with Mark 4:30-32, where Jesus says that the Kingdom of God is like a mustard seed: small at first, but growing into a large tree where heavenly birds can nest. A tree that provides space, that brings life, where everyone may have a place. Think also of the tree of life and the tree planted by streams of water. Revelation 22:2 and Psalm 1:3. Just like that tree, together we form something great, even if we each contribute only a small part, and all manner of birds find their place in this tree.
You are unique! And you’re searching for authenticity, depth and direction. You need answers. In this workshop, we’ll practise listening to the voice of the Eternal. Step by step, you’ll reach your destination. We’ll move from theory to practice.
Abbey – REFTER
What significance does this ancient creed, drawn up in 325 at Nicaea by church leaders of the time from Northern and Southern Europe and the Middle East, hold for the followers of Christ today? As Pope Leo XIV declared: “Through theological dialogue and with God’s help, we shall gain a better understanding of the mystery that unites us.” We will explore the beauty and power of unity in making God known in our fragmented world.
Abbey – Kapittelzaal
Tikva is a form of movement and relaxation in the presence of God, developed in Sweden. During the Tikva workshop, we do stretching exercises based on physiotherapy. During the session, music specially composed for Tikva is played, and passages from the Bible are read aloud to give you hope, peace and strength.
Because we believe that body, soul and spirit are one, we not only train our bodies, but at the same time nourish our minds and souls with His Word. It is a moment between you and God, but at the same time it aims to foster connection between participants and convey the message that you are not alone. Tikva means ‘hope’ in Hebrew and aims to be a movement of hope in this world.
Please bring a mat and a pillow so you can participate comfortably in this workshop.
Do you also believe that faith brings joy, and that people in faith communities genuinely care for one another? Then you’ll be delighted to discover ‘Het dolle dagboek’, the cheerful debut novel by Christian podcaster Wim Corbeel! In this workshop, he’ll tell us more about the unique faith community at the heart of his novel, and how we can find inspiration in it through our dreams about faith and being believers together!
Translated with DeepL.com (free version)
This section features 26 illustrated Psalms as well as a number of modern icons; we learn more about the inspiration and working methods of artist Jedi Noordegraaf, and a number of Psalms are also performed musically. In a conversation with Gerdine Baaij, Jedi takes us on a journey through his interpretation of the Psalms. The exhibition in the cloisters of Bornem Monastery will be on display throughout the festival and can also be viewed outside of this special performance. The conversation and performance will take place in the Thomas Chapel.
“If you take your craft seriously – whether you dance, make music, lead worship, write or create visually – you already know that talent isn’t the only thing that counts. The real question is: can your character, conviction and faith take you where your talent wants to lead you?
In this workshop, we will discuss:
- How to develop your skills without being influenced by comparisons
- How to strive for excellence without losing sight of your values
- How to understand your calling, ambition and influence within a faith context
- How to build a creative life that is strong on the inside, and not just impressive on the outside
Lara Bianca Pilcher is a professional performing artist, international speaker, author and ICF PCC-certified life and creativity coach. She works with artists who want to ground their creativity in faith, conviction and personal integrity — not just visibility.
If you want your creativity to flourish, expand and remain aligned with who you believe you are called to be, this session will challenge you and make you stronger.
Abbey – CHURCH
Abbey – THOMASKAPEL
Communicate worship: Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, strength and mind. (Mark 5:6)
Put your WHOLE BEING into your communication and leave no room for doubt about your message.
This workshop is for anyone who has something to say and wants to do so in complete unity of body, soul and spirit.
Do you know that feeling during worship when you want to do or move something but don’t know how, when it feels awkward and you end up singing with your hands in your pockets or your arms crossed, even though you want to release your physical energy? That is your soul telling you that you want more than just to sing. So how do you do that? How do you use your body during praise and worship without feeling awkward?
After this workshop, you’ll have greater insight and realise even more clearly how much your non-verbal communication influences your speaking and the delivery of your message; 80% of communication is non-verbal. You’ll receive tips and tools to use in your (non-verbal) communication. You can apply these on stage, during personal worship and in your daily interactions.
You can ‘read’ a work of art. We reveal a fragment of the masterpiece of Flemish painting.
“If you take your craft seriously – whether you dance, make music, lead worship, write or create visually – you already know that talent isn’t the only thing that counts. The real question is: can your character, conviction and faith take you where your talent wants to lead you?
In this workshop, we will discuss:
- How to develop your skills without being influenced by comparisons
- How to strive for excellence without losing sight of your values
- How to understand your calling, ambition and influence within a faith context
- How to build a creative life that is strong on the inside, and not just impressive on the outside
Lara Bianca Pilcher is a professional performing artist, international speaker, author and ICF PCC-certified life and creativity coach. She works with artists who want to ground their creativity in faith, conviction and personal integrity — not just visibility.
If you want your creativity to flourish, expand and remain aligned with who you believe you are called to be, this session will challenge you and make you stronger.
MARCUS TENT
Do you feel stuck in your creative pursuits? Do you find it hard to find the motivation to create art, or do you find it daunting to try something new? In this workshop, we’ll explore the main causes of creative blocks and artistic burnout. We’ll then look at both biblical wisdom and practical strategies to get your creativity flowing again.
Vulnerability knows no boundaries. Here in Belgium, too, there are countless children and young people who need our support. Find out for yourself on 9 May during our empathy workshop at the Art of Faith Festival in Bornem. In this informative and interactive workshop, you’ll experience what it means to be vulnerable, see how quickly situations can change, and discover how your faith can really make a difference — in Belgium and around the world. Come along with your family, friends or youth group and take on the challenge: build your own shelter using wood, cardboard, plastic and lots of tape. We’ll provide all the materials; all you need to bring is your enthusiasm.
We are all loved by God, unique and valuable, each with our own talents. Today, this activity is not just about creating art, but also about discovering how different we all are and how God’s love touches us in that.
Meet & Greet
Artificial intelligence has rapidly become an everyday reality. Yet fundamental questions remain under-explored. Who are we as human beings when machines come to rival our intelligence? What do empathy, freedom and creativity mean in a world increasingly driven by algorithms? What does this technological revolution demand of us as citizens, workers, educators, artists or people of faith?
Panel discussion on AI and the Christian faith, featuring Tim Brys, Raymond Hausoul and Guido van Steendam (Professor of Theology and Philosophy), among others.
Presentation by Laurentine Van Landeghem on her book “The Lies We Love to Believe”.
Despite our focus on self-help, spirituality and mental wellbeing, we seem to be unhappier than ever. How is that possible? Laurentine Van Landeghem – entrepreneur, author and former influencer – shares her personal story of the search for fulfilment. Drawing on her own experience, she reveals how popular modern ‘truths’ such as ‘follow your heart’ and ‘you determine your own truth’ can actually hold us back.
In her book review, Laurentine takes you on an honest and challenging journey of discovery. She explains how, after years of searching in the world of New Age and success, she finally found peace in the age-old wisdom of the Bible. An inspiring session for anyone who has ever wondered: “Surely there must be more to life than this?”
Panel discussion “Godfluencers” on bearing witness in a secular world, with Charlotte Stevens (moderator), Laurentien, Stephanie Becks and Father Bart (Bart Papen)