On August 22, blacksmith Mike Martin, pianist Julian Davis Reid, and vocalist Tramaine Parker lead “Forging Notes of Rest,” a half-day gathering where the rhythmic exertion of blacksmithing meets the stillness of musical reflection. Exploring the common language between the anvil and the piano, this gathering uses metalworking as an embodied way to process grief and express God’s love back into the world. Blended with Scripture and music, participants discover the paradox of finding rest within the hammer — learning to shape their own journey of transformation and healing in God’s presence.
This is an offering of The Well at Queen Anne United Methodist Church, shared here so our community can take part. The day runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and is free, with donations welcome.
The presenters
- Mike Martin is the founder of RawTools, a nonprofit that transforms surrendered guns into garden tools and art — a vision of peace through practical, redemptive labor. A blacksmith and Mennonite minister, he teaches nonviolence as both a strategy and a way of life.
- Julian Davis Reid is a composer, pianist, and improviser whose work bridges classical tradition, contemporary experimentation, and sacred sound. His workshop and retreat, Notes of Rest, brings people on a journey into deep Sabbath.
- Tramaine Parker is a vocalist whose rich, resonant voice carries both power and tenderness, drawing from gospel and contemporary sacred traditions to ground the gathering in hope, resilience, and praise.
This program is made possible through a Vital Worship, Vital Preaching Grant from the Calvin Institute of Christian Worship, Grand Rapids, Michigan, with funds provided by Lilly Endowment Inc.