Sacred Art

Sacred art in the Catholic Church is made up of three parts: art, architecture, and music. Art is something that is found in all cultures, and for this reason sacred art can be a great tool not only for deepening the spirituality of the faithful, but for evangelization as well. In whatever form, it should not be confused for idols marveling at just its beauty, but instead used to focus our worship on God. Much like rosary beads which can ground us physically while we pray, sacred art can ground our eyes and minds in the beauty of the liturgy.

One example where sacred art had a profound effect was in the spiritual formation of Saint Francis of Assisi. Before he became a saint, he was a nobleman returning from war. He found himself at a crossroads in his life and was not sure what he should do. While praying at an altar before the *San Damiano Cross (artist is unknown), God spoke to him. God told him to give up his life as a nobleman, to give up his title and land, and to follow the humble path of Christ. He did this at once and the rest is history. It is amazing that one act of prayer and spiritual contemplation in front of sacred art could have such an overpowering effect in the growth of the Holy Catholic Church.

Although it is not intended to have such a direct encounter with God, it is meant to deepen our faith. A great example of this can be seen in Henri J.M. Nouwen's *"The Return of the Prodigal Son". This *book beautifully tells of his chance encounter with Rembrandt's artwork, which led him down a path of spiritual exploration and personal calling for his place in the church. He had such a desire to see it in person that when he finally did, he stayed and sat for hours. He noticed how the change of light throughout the day would alter his focus. Different images within the painting would begin to stand out more, which in turn through contemplation and prayer, deepened his own spiritual growth. He started to understand more fully how at different points in our lives, we become each person in the parable: the prodigal son; the father; and the brother who stayed to serve.

In our journey of faith, this Christmas season can be a time to explore all the beautiful things given to us by God. Sacred art can make you stop, look, marvel, and wonder. It is important that in these moments we open our hearts to listen and ponder what the Holy Spirit maybe telling us.

"Genuine sacred art draws man to adoration, to prayer, and to the love of God, Creator and Savior, the Holy One and Sanctifier." CCC 2502

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Eliza S. Ford
Parishioner