Beauty lifts the soul, especially when combined with prayer. A grand vista or intricate work of art can be transformative, evoking deep feelings and thoughts. A majestic waterfall or a detailed painting reminds us of God’s magnificence and the care He put into the world. Art communicates ideas and stories, especially in matters of faith, when literacy was less common, leading to a vast collection of religious art.
Since the early Church, Christians have used art to share the Good News and tell Christ’s story. Frescoes, paintings, and other traditional art forms were common. As time passed, artists explored various styles and mediums, resulting in the creation of new art forms. Colored glass in windows has been used in churches since the early days, but it became a staple in the monumental Gothic works of the 11th and 12th centuries. These cathedrals, decorated with beautiful stained glass, brought light and color, instructing the faithful in a simple, engaging, and beautiful way.
These artworks catechized the faithful and served as a focus for prayer. People attending Mass or seeking a quiet place could meditate on them, learning about the Bible and bringing the Gospel to life. In this tradition, the series “Praying with Images (Visio Divina)” uses stained glass images to represent the Mysteries of the Rosary and reflections from Venerable Patrick Peyton. These images, like the stained glass of old cathedrals, instruct us in certain truths about the faith and provide a reference point for meditation.
Artful depictions of Christ’s life, especially His Passion and Death, offer families a unique opportunity to engage in discussions of faith. From the youngest to the oldest, everyone can look upon the beauty of art and share their thoughts and feelings.
Visio Divina, or “sacred seeing,” is an ancient form of Christian prayer that uses the imagination to enter into prayer. It is an effective method for families looking to begin or deepen a practice of family prayer. Start with these images, calling upon the Holy Spirit to guide your discussion.
Your prayer can be as simple as, “Come, Holy Spirit,” or a longer one, such as:
Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful. And kindle in them the fire of your love. Send forth your Spirit and they shall be created. And you will renew the face of the earth.
This collection of images of the Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary includes short reflections to illustrate the variety of ways sacred art can be viewed and discussed. We pray your family is truly blessed by your time together, immersed in the beauty of the art, these words, and your precious time with each other.