Biblical art in Catholic churches
Author: Lo & Behold
In his gospel, one of St John’s favourite themes was the contrast between light and darkness. He included a number of sayings on this subject. One of these was the following statement, made by Christ both to his disciples and to the people: “I am the light of the world” (8:12; 9:5; 12:46). Referring to … Continue reading I am the Light of the World (John 8:12)
The book of Revelation, otherwise known as the ‘Apocalypse’, is the last book of the Bible. Its writer, named John, explains that while he was exiled on the island of Patmos, he experienced a series of prophetic visions. He was told by God to write them down for the seven churches of Asia (1:1-9). For … Continue reading The Revelation of St John (Revelation 1:1-20)
This short episode in the life of Christ is only mentioned within St Luke’s gospel. Two miles to the east of Jerusalem lay a town called Bethany, where two sisters – St Martha and St Mary – lived with their brother Lazarus. There was always a welcome for Christ in this home. We know from St … Continue reading St Martha and St Mary (Luke 10:38-42)
St John, along with his brother St James Major, was one of the Twelve Apostles. He worked with his father Zebedee in the family fishing business on Lake Galilee. It was beside this lake that Christ first called the two brothers to leave their nets and to follow him (Matthew 4:21-22; 10:3). With the exception … Continue reading St John, Apostle and Evangelist (John 21:20-25)
The account of the sinful woman who anointed Christ’s feet is found in St Luke’s gospel. It underlines Christ’s welcoming attitude towards sinners and his criticism of the self-righteous. Pope Benedict XVI shared this reflection on the story: “Simon, a Pharisee and a rich dignitary of the town, was holding a banquet at his home … Continue reading Christ is anointed by a sinful woman (Luke 7:36-50)
The account of Christ walking on water is found in three of the gospels, although only St Matthew’s version tells us about St Peter’s involvement in the miracle. (Matthew 14:22-23; Mark 6:45-52; John 6:15-21) After Christ fed the 5,000, he told the apostles to set sail for the town of Capernaum, on the other side … Continue reading Christ walks on water (Matthew 14:22-33)
This episode in the life of Abram reveals him to be a military man, but it also tells us about his contact with a priestly king, Melchizedek, who came to symbolise Christ. The background to their meeting involved a regional war among the kings of various city-states. Abram’s nephew, Lot, got caught up in the … Continue reading Abram meets Melchizedek (Genesis 14:1-24)
