Holmes family donates sculpture to Helena church
Published: August 13, 2008
“Who Gives All Gifts,” a monumental-sized bronze sculpture by Tim Holmes, will be unveiled during a dedication ceremony at noon Oct. 19 at St Paul's United Methodist Church in Helena.
The sculpture has been donated to the church by the Holmes family (Tim Holmes, Krys Holmes, and Steve Garnaas-Holmes) in memory of their parents, the Rev. Bob and Polly Holmes, and in honor of all those who devote their lives to compassion and social service.
“Who Gives All Gifts,” which measures seven-by-four feet, will sit on a large granite base in the church garden, looking out over downtown Helena and presenting an artful and creative presence in the heart of the city.
Rev. Bob and Polly Holmes both died in 2005. He was a Methodist minister, writer, speaker, counselor, Humanities Montana lecturer, activist for poverty and justice, snazzy jazz pianist, and creator of a well-known series of one-minute radio and TV spots called "Lifelifters."
She was a former legislator (1973-1981), newspaper columnist, playwright and prolific writer, and professionally practiced courage and compassion.
The sculpture depicts Agape, who bends over us, waiting in infinite patience and tenderness for us to discover and respond to the gifts that are showered upon us.
As a sculptor myself, I could never express in words the spiritual power of Mr. Holmes’ work. It is not just a visual art, nor just the personal expression of Mr. Holmes’ sole and spirit but a personal attack, an invasive spiritual taunting and confrontation of the viewers sole and all that lies beneith the clothing and skin. He is truely one of the Greatest of all times!
