Sacred Art: Wedding Feast of the Lamb

Local artist Joseph Macklin is in the process of painting our apse (the curved, semi-circular area where our tabernacle is normally housed). The upper half of the mural will be a version of the Wedding Feast of the Lamb described in the Book of Revelation. The scene will depict the Lamb of God surrounded by a heavenly host of saints (whose names were suggested by our parishioners!) and angels. The scene symbolizes Christ’s sacrifice and glorification. It is a heavenly representation of what happens at the altar during every Mass, the moment in which we on earth join the saints in heaven to witness the glorious and timeless event of our redemption. In the lower half of the mural, we will see depictions of the earthly drama of our salvation: the Garden of Gethsemane (Holy Thursday) and the Empty Tomb (Easter) will flank the Crucifix and Tabernacle (Good Friday).

Every part of the Mass is designed to raise our hearts and minds to the higher realm of heaven. In the Liturgy of the Word, we hear the promise of heavenly salvation given to us here on earth. In the Liturgy of the Eucharist, we experience the one true sacrifice of Jesus Christ that unites creation with the Creator. No less important is the physical building in which we gather to experience this mystery together as a body. The art and architecture of a church is there to enhance this experience. When we see beautiful images of saints, Christ, and scenes from the Bible, we’re reminded of God’s presence and love. These works of art invite us to pause, reflect, and enter into a deeper prayerful connection with Him. Sacred art creates a space where we can focus our thoughts on the divine, helps us to experience the beauty and mystery of our faith, and draws us closer to God in a meaningful and powerful way.