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.
A Visual Journey through Holy Week
Explore Holy Week through the lens of church art — from Palm Sunday to Holy Saturday.
Christ unites the Virgin and St John (John 19:25-27)
As Jesus died on the cross, he brought his mother Mary and St John into a new relationship.
The Crucifixion (Psalm 22:1-18)
Psalm 22 is a prayer for relief from suffering. It was traditionally attributed to King David and also understood as a reference to the crucifixion of Christ.
Christ carries his cross (John 19:16-17)
After being sentenced to death, Jesus was ordered to carry his cross to Golgotha, the hill outside Jerusalem where he was to be crucified.
Moses raises the Bronze Serpent (Numbers 21:4-9)
In the story of Moses raising the Bronze Serpent, the Israelites were bitten by venomous snakes in the wilderness. God commanded Moses to make a bronze serpent and raise it up on a pole, and anyone who looked at it would be healed from their snake bi
Simon of Cyrene helps Christ (Mark 15:21-22)
While passing by on his way in from the country, Simon of Cyrene was forced to help Jesus to carry his cross.
Christ dies upon the cross (John 19:28-30)
Given its significance, the death of Christ is described in detail in all four gospels. From these we learn of Christ's last words.
Christ is crucified (Luke 23:33-34)
According to the gospels, Jesus was crucified by Roman soldiers, who drove nails into his hands and feet.