Biblical art in Catholic churches
Tag: Painting
The Prayer of Habakkuk is a song that describes a grand vision of God, shining forth in glory upon a mountain. It refers back to the events of the Exodus – and points forward to the coming of the Messiah. The prayer, also known as the ‘Canticle of Habakkuk’, is now used as part of … Continue reading The Prayer of Habakkuk (Habakkuk 3:1-15)
The story of the Transfiguration of Christ is described in three of the gospels, as well as in the Second Letter of St Peter. (Matthew 17:1–8, Mark 9:2–8, Luke 9:28–36; 2 Peter 1:16-18). It describes how those closest to Christ got a glimpse of him in heavenly glory. Pope Francis picks up the story: “Taking … Continue reading The Transfiguration (Matthew 17:1-8)
The escape of the Holy Family from Israel into Egypt has long been a favourite subject in Christian art. The event was traditionally understood as one of the “seven sorrows” of the Virgin Mary, which explains why it became such a popular scene. Pope Benedict XVI explained the story this way: “The evangelist Matthew narrates … Continue reading The Flight into Egypt (Matthew 2:13-15)
St Michael is one of the seven archangels, or “seven spirits”, who stand before the throne of God (Revelation 1:4). His name means “Who is like God?” and he is traditionally considered to be the military leader of the angels. In one of his sermons, Pope Benedict XVI unpacked the biblical figure of St Michael … Continue reading St Michael the Archangel (Revelation 12:7-12)
Joel, the son of Pethuel, is listed second among the minor prophets. He prophesied to the people of the Kingdom of Judah, which had previously been part of Israel. He seems to have lived at the same time as the prophet Hosea, and to have written his prophecies after the destruction of the kingdom of … Continue reading Joel foretells the Holy Spirit (Joel 2:28-29)
St. Matthew was one of the Twelve Apostles and is traditionally considered the author of the gospel that bears his name. Pope Benedict XVI explained: “His name in Hebrew means "gift of God". The first canonical Gospel, which goes under his name, presents him to us in the list of the Twelve, labelled very precisely: … Continue reading The Call of St Matthew (Matthew 9:9)
The Sanctus (‘Holy, Holy, Holy’) acclamation has its origins in the book of Isaiah (6:1-8) and the book of Revelation (4:1-11). It begins with the words from Isaiah: “‘Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory.” Added to this are the words with which the crowds praised Christ when … Continue reading The Sanctus (Isaiah 6:1-8)
