The Dream, the Dreamer
When Jesus finished these words,
the crowds were astonished at his teaching,
for he taught them as one having authority,
and not as their scribes.
Matthew 7:28-29
The dream -- the idea of a different venue for presenting the story of Jesus -- came to Deacon John Tugman in December 2015. It simmered for several months as he worked to refine the concept and articulate the idea to himself and others. The concept grew and changed with suggestions and encouragement from many -- but with skepticism as well. Yet the encouragement outweighed the skepticism and the dream persisted. In the spring of 2018 important doors opened unexpectedly: wonderful spaces, supportive landlords, and financial resources. The Gallery operated at 909 Portage Avenue from August to December of 2018, then at 2113 Elwood Avenue for all of 2019, and moved to 1046 Lawndale Avenue in January 2020 and stayed there through July 2022. Since then there has been no dedicated location but the concept has persisted through this website, some impromptu gatherings and outdoor Gospel give-aways, and twice a month sessions led by Donna Johnson in the Community Room at Robertson's Apartments in downtown South Bend.
The flow of visitors since opening has been modest in numbers but enthusiastic and encouraging. The focus on just the Gospels, plus the variety of translations used, has generated vibrant discussion. The visual art has helped create an engaging and welcoming atmosphere. The variety of folks dropping in and interacting with each other is the best result of all: when we share our reactions to what Jesus said and did, everyone is enriched. Relationships are being built and strengthened, earthly and heavenly!
Deacon John Tugman ("Deacon Tug" to many) was husband of Manuela for 57 years until her passing in March of 2024. Together they are parents of Lisa, Tanya and Matthew, and grandparents of seven. He was ordained a Permanent Deacon for the Catholic Church in 1991 in Connecticut, where he served until relocating to Indiana in 2006. He resumed diaconal service in 2008 at St. Pius X Catholic Church in Granger, Indiana, from which he retired in the summer of 2016. Since retiring from active ministry he has worshipped at Holy Cross Catholic Church on Wilber Street and become active in the surrounding neighborhoods of South Bend.