Themes of Faith

Sacred art-making is not just about illustrating the Bible. As Christianity grew over two millennia into a global religion, layers of tradition, theological teaching, and historical narrative about the later followers of Jesus were added to this bedrock of faith. Believers developed special forms of devotion like the Stations of the Cross, inspiring new kinds of art. The symbol of the Cross, which had become a visual shorthand for basic Christian beliefs, took on different variations, reflecting diverse faith communities. Archetypal images like Christ the Good Shepherd found new artistic interpretations. Artists became fascinated with depicting God's heavenly messengers, the angels, as a subject outside of biblical texts. This section offers a series of meditations with works of art, expressing these great Themes of Faith.

Were You There When They Crucified My Lord?

Were You There When They Crucified My Lord?

Eastern Orthodox chants, medieval Latin hymns, African-American spirituals, and the songs of sawdust trail revival meetings all lead us to Calvary.

The True Vine

The True Vine

From Genesis to Revelation, the Bible speaks of grapes, vineyards, and wine, which we drink in remembrance of the True Vine who died that we might live.

From Realms of Glory

From Realms of Glory

As heavenly messengers, ministering spirits, and instruments of divine justice, angels are an endless source of interest to wondering humans.

The Stations of the Cross

The Stations of the Cross

Follow Christ along the Way of Sorrow from the Hall of Pilate to Golgotha, as if you had been present in Jerusalem on Good Friday.

Survey the Wondrous Cross

Survey the Wondrous Cross

Survey the wondrous cross: a sign, a historical symbol, and a witness to faith, the most readily recognized emblem on the planet.

The Good Shepherd

The Good Shepherd

The pastoral image of the Good Shepherd still holds great meaning for our high-tech, secular, urban age.

The Saintly Dragon Slayer

The Saintly Dragon Slayer

His real deeds known but to God, George, whether knight-errant or tortured martyr, can justly be called a Saint for All Seasons.

Sacred Art Meditations: Seeing with the eyes of the heart
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