Biblical themes
In this section, you can explore some of the great themes of Scripture – or ‘mysteries’ – through the visual language of church art.
Many of these mysteries are closely linked to the Church’s liturgical year – the cycle of seasons and festivals celebrated month by month. As each year unfolds, the Church’s rhythm of worship focuses the attention of the faithful on particular biblical stories or themes.
This includes the mysteries of the life of Christ, as well as the lives of other key figures such as the Virgin Mary and St Peter. It also includes the mysteries of the sacraments, along with the witness of the saints, the martyrs, and the holy angels.
A Visual Journey through Holy Week
Explore Holy Week through the lens of church art — from Palm Sunday to Holy Saturday.
Corpus Christi: the Mystery of the Eucharist
On the Feast of Corpus Christi, the Church proclaims the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist, which is often pictured in church art.
Courage and Conviction: the martyrs of Scripture
Discover the stories of martyrs from the Bible through works of art that picture their faith, courage and witness.
From Eve to Mary: discovering the Virgin in Scripture
Explore the life of Mary through church art – prophecies, Old Testament counterparts, and gospel stories.
Prayerful Politicians of the Old Testament
The Old Testament tells the story of various saintly kings, queens, lawmakers and governors. Here are ten of them.
Soldier Saints of the Old Testament
In November, as many nations remember their war dead, let's look at some biblical examples of bravery in battle.
The Holy Angels
Through sacred art, discover more about the role of angels in the Bible, including their organisation into nine choirs, as well as key stories in which they feature.
The Holy Cross: from Genesis to the Gospels
Throughout the Bible, the mystery of the cross is gradually revealed. Explore this topic through chosen works of church art.
The Life of St Peter
St Peter was a fisherman who became a disciple of Christ, who chose him to become an apostle and the leader of the Church.
The Parables of Christ
The gospels are full of short stories and sayings, called ‘parables’, that Christ used to teach people about the Kingdom of God.
Water and the Word: the Mystery of Baptism
In early January each year, the Church celebrates the feast of the Baptism of the Lord. This day honours the Baptism of Christ in the River Jordan by St John the Baptist.
Women of the New Testament
In the New Testament, many women are celebrated and praised for their faith and good works – as well as for their role in the Christian story.
Women of the Old Testament
The Old Testament features many women, including mothers and mourners, queens and judges, prophets and martyrs, wives and widows.