Last Easter weekend, on Saturday evening April 11, we were allowed to help create an Easter fire on the Saint Peter Basilica on the market in Oirschot, the Netherlands. Because of the corona crisis, the Oldulphus parish could not hold its religious services and celebrations. Deacon Wilfred van Nunen let his creativity run wild and came up with a nice alternative. That initiative of the parish did not go unnoticed!
Easter is associated within the Christian faith with the light. As for the church community in Oirschot and surroundings (except (funeral) services in a very limited circle), it held for weeks no more church services so the parish looked for an alternative. This alternative has been found by burning the “light to the joy of the resurrection” at the top of the church tower. To avoid any risk there is of course no real fire, but a fire simulation. A hopeful flickering Easter fire for the whole area. We were surprised and most honoured when Deacon Wilfred van Nuenen called upon us. Of course we also want to help to create an Easter fire in these times! Simulate realistic flames is exactly what we as FireWare are very good at!
Challenge at high altitude
Simulating a bonfire at a high altitude is a challenging project. Especially at this time, when the staging technicians must respect the 1.5 meter rule. Yet it worked! The other challenges, such as the 270 steps, the lack of an elevator and the challenges in terms of power supply, have been overcome. The good care of our team certainly helped!
This beautiful initiative of the parish did not go unnoticed. Admiration was rife by inhabitants who looked from their homes. Everyone could enjoy the event without violating the current restrictions. Even the national and international media picked up on the sensational event. A beautiful Easter message of the parish has spread like wildfire! We want to thank all Oirschot stakeholders we have been able to contribute to this original idea.
Also view the portfolio item, for more information about the Easter fire simulation.
Photos: Leo van de Laar and FireWare
