A moving new installation blooms at the Bombed Out Church, calling for peace and unity

A powerful new artwork has taken root in the gardens of Liverpool’s iconic Bombed Out Church, bringing together community, creativity, and a heartfelt message of hope.

Fifty handcrafted Madonna Lilies – native to the region of Palestine and Israel – now bloom within the grounds, each one carefully made from upcycled plastic carrier bags. The flowers were created during a series of workshops at Asylum Link by people from across Liverpool’s diverse communities, including individuals with lived experience of seeking refuge.

The project was led by Liverpool-based artist Faith Bebbington, who designed the lilies and supported participants through the creative process. Guided by her expertise, the community came together to craft an installation that speaks to both loss and resilience.

Imagined and funded by local residents, the piece is a tribute to children lost in the ongoing conflict in Palestine and Israel – and to all children affected by war. At its heart, it is a call for peace, unity, and compassion.

A spokesperson for the Bombed Out Church said:

“The lilies serve as a symbolic gesture, bringing communities in Liverpool together through a shared expression of grief and a collective longing for global peace,” said a spokesperson for the Bombed Out Church.

“Liverpool is a city of many cultures. In times of division and global suffering, we are reminded of the power of community, compassion, and solidarity. May we continue to reach out to one another – and together, strive for peace.”

The Bombed Out Church not only hosts the display but also supported its development and delivery, while Asylum Link – a lifeline for asylum seekers and refugees in Liverpool – welcomed the workshops into their community space.

Asylum Link offers essential services including casework support, English classes, and wellbeing activities, helping individuals navigate the asylum process and build a sense of belonging. In recognition of their impact, they were awarded the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service in 2021.

The lilies can be viewed at any time through the church railings on Leece Street, offering a quiet yet powerful moment of reflection for passersby.

Find out more information on The Bombed Out Church website.

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