The Saint John's
Bible Luncheon
A once-in-a-lifetime encounter with one of the most extraordinary works of art in the modern world — over a beautifully prepared lunch, in the company of people who love art, craft, and the written word.
October 23, 2026
Lunch to follow
Calgary, AB
per person
More than a book.
A work of art
five centuries in the making.
The Saint John's Bible is the first hand-written, hand-illuminated Bible commissioned by a Benedictine monastery since the invention of the printing press. Thirteen years in the making. Seven volumes. Over 1,100 pages of vellum. And illuminations of breathtaking beauty — gold leaf, natural pigments, and ancient techniques brought to life by a team of the world's finest calligraphers and artists.
On Thursday October 23rd, a Heritage Edition — valued at over half a million dollars, every illumination added by hand — comes to Flourish. You are invited to dine in its presence, hear the story of its creation, and see it up close.
This is not a lecture. This is an experience.
An Afternoon
to Remember
Everything you need for a truly extraordinary Thursday afternoon.
Cocktail Reception
Begin with cocktails from 11:30, mingling with fellow art lovers in the elegant surroundings of Hotel Blackfoot before sitting down to lunch.
A Beautifully Prepared Lunch
Enjoy a wonderful midday meal in the company of people who share your passion for art, beauty, and the extraordinary things human hands can make.
A Keynote on The Bible
Hear the remarkable story of The Saint John's Bible from speaker Susan Keys — the vision, the thirteen-year journey, and what it means for all who love the written and illuminated word.
See It Up Close
The Heritage Edition will be present throughout the afternoon. Librarians from St. Mary's University will be on hand to guide you through the illuminations and answer your questions.
Expert Guided Viewing
This is not a roped-off display. You will be able to get close, look carefully, and truly experience the detail and devotion that went into every page of this extraordinary work.
Open to the Public
No festival pass required. This luncheon is open to everyone — art lovers, collectors, educators, the curious, and anyone who believes beauty matters.
Susan
Keys
Scholar · Educator · Advocate for the Written Word
Susan Keys brings a deep and passionate knowledge of The Saint John's Bible to every room she enters. Her presentation will take guests on an intimate journey through this thirteen-year undertaking — the scribes and illuminators, the theological vision, the ancient techniques revived for a new era, and what this living masterpiece means for all who love the art of the written word.
Warm, knowledgeable, and genuinely inspiring, Susan has a gift for making the extraordinary feel personal — and for sending you home seeing the world a little differently than before.
St. Mary's University
This event is made possible through the extraordinary generosity of St. Mary's University, who are lending their Heritage Edition of The Saint John's Bible for this occasion. Their librarians will be present throughout the afternoon to share their knowledge and their love of this remarkable work. We are deeply grateful for their partnership and their commitment to bringing this living treasure to our community.
Reserve Your Place
at the Table
Seats are limited — don't miss this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
$75 per person · book early to avoid disappointmentOpen to the public — no festival registration required