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AD PORTA CAELI

Beauty: The Forgotten Transcendental

The Angelus

The Angelus

The Angelus

The Angelus, Jean-Francois Millet, 1857-1859. Musée d'Orsay, Paris, France. Questions -What do you see in this painting? -Do you know the...

Madeline

May 128 min read

8 views

0 comments

Saint Catherine of Siena

Saint Catherine of Siena

Saint Catherine of Siena

St. Catherine of Siena - Mystic of Fire and Preacher of Freedom.

Madeline

Apr 289 min read

46 views

0 comments

Transfiguration

Transfiguration

Transfiguration

My first post on a mosaic - The Transfiguration.

Madeline

Apr 1410 min read

6 views

0 comments

The Return of the Prodigal Son

The Return of the Prodigal Son

The Return of the Prodigal Son

A painting of the parable of the prodigal son - a moment of reflection on forgiveness, humility, and charity.

Madeline

Mar 3111 min read

34 views

0 comments

Do you take time out of your work day to say a prayer to the Lord?

How can you incorporate the Angelus or another short prayer to reorient yourself throughout the day?

Are you able to partake in simple work outside? Why is this important?

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Image: The Angelus, Jean-Francois Millet, 1857-1859. Musée d’Orsay, Paris, France.
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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #angelus #theangelus #millet #jeanfrancoismillet #france #paris #farming #faithlife #peasant #farmers

Do you take time out of your work day to say a prayer to the Lord?

How can you incorporate the Angelus or another short prayer to reorient yourself throughout the day?

Are you able to partake in simple work outside? Why is this important?

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Image: The Angelus, Jean-Francois Millet, 1857-1859. Musée d’Orsay, Paris, France.
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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #angelus #theangelus #millet #jeanfrancoismillet #france #paris #farming #faithlife #peasant #farmers

Lord, thank you for the simplicity of life that you call us to. While we are busy, overwhelmed, and in the midst of work, may we take a step back. May we be aware of your presence and the importance of having you be the center and markers throughout our day. Your gift of creation and our call to care for it is written on our hearts. Help us to find a way to work with our hands and unite ourselves with you in our work. May we be inspired by Saint Isidore, patron of laborers and farmers. Let us be inspired to work hard and work well, desiring to please you by the work of our hands but keeping relationship with you in utter importance. Bless our work and rest, bring us into communion with your work and rest.

St. Isidore, pray for us!

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #angelus #theangelus #millet #jeanfrancoismillet #france #paris #farming #faithlife #peasant #farmers

Lord, thank you for the simplicity of life that you call us to. While we are busy, overwhelmed, and in the midst of work, may we take a step back. May we be aware of your presence and the importance of having you be the center and markers throughout our day. Your gift of creation and our call to care for it is written on our hearts. Help us to find a way to work with our hands and unite ourselves with you in our work. May we be inspired by Saint Isidore, patron of laborers and farmers. Let us be inspired to work hard and work well, desiring to please you by the work of our hands but keeping relationship with you in utter importance. Bless our work and rest, bring us into communion with your work and rest.

St. Isidore, pray for us!

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #angelus #theangelus #millet #jeanfrancoismillet #france #paris #farming #faithlife #peasant #farmers

The basket, pitchfork and wheelbarrow are set aside to take up the more important work - prayer. It is such an important aspect of our day as it shows our desire for relationship with God. We do manual labor so that we may care for the creation which God has gifted us. It purifies us, strengthens us, and brings us into harmony with the natural world. It is the respite from this, the rest that we are made for and will partake in our heavenly home. We must be constantly reminded that we are not made for this earth, but made for relationship with God.

The faces of the peasants are left in shadow, allowing us to take their place and see ourselves in them. The Lord wants us to take time out of our day and in the middle of our work to commune with Him and enjoin our work to His. The rhythm of life must be guided by prayer and our liturgical life must be the unchangeable parts of our lives, each and every day. This painting shows how meditation can happen wherever and whenever, if only we choose to do so.

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Image: The Angelus, Jean-Francois Millet, 1857-1859. Musée d’Orsay, Paris, France.
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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #angelus #theangelus #millet #jeanfrancoismillet #france #paris #farming #faithlife #peasant #farmers

The basket, pitchfork and wheelbarrow are set aside to take up the more important work - prayer. It is such an important aspect of our day as it shows our desire for relationship with God. We do manual labor so that we may care for the creation which God has gifted us. It purifies us, strengthens us, and brings us into harmony with the natural world. It is the respite from this, the rest that we are made for and will partake in our heavenly home. We must be constantly reminded that we are not made for this earth, but made for relationship with God.

The faces of the peasants are left in shadow, allowing us to take their place and see ourselves in them. The Lord wants us to take time out of our day and in the middle of our work to commune with Him and enjoin our work to His. The rhythm of life must be guided by prayer and our liturgical life must be the unchangeable parts of our lives, each and every day. This painting shows how meditation can happen wherever and whenever, if only we choose to do so.

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Image: The Angelus, Jean-Francois Millet, 1857-1859. Musée d’Orsay, Paris, France.
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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #angelus #theangelus #millet #jeanfrancoismillet #france #paris #farming #faithlife #peasant #farmers

What is a specific gift that the Lord has given you to use in His Church?

What women would be in your book of ‘Famous Women’ that have been influential for you? Could be family, saints, friends, people you see online, community members, or fellow parishioners.

How does this painting of a woman (St. Catherine) being painted by a woman (Eleanor) affect how you see this painting?

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Image: Saint Catherine of Siena, Eleanor Fortescue-Brickdale, 1919. The Golden Book of Famous Women, Eleanor Foretescue-Brickdale.
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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #saintcatherine #stcatherine #catherine #siena #stcatherineofsiena #eleanorfortescuebrickdale #eleanor #famouswomen

What is a specific gift that the Lord has given you to use in His Church?

What women would be in your book of ‘Famous Women’ that have been influential for you? Could be family, saints, friends, people you see online, community members, or fellow parishioners.

How does this painting of a woman (St. Catherine) being painted by a woman (Eleanor) affect how you see this painting?

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Image: Saint Catherine of Siena, Eleanor Fortescue-Brickdale, 1919. The Golden Book of Famous Women, Eleanor Foretescue-Brickdale.
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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #saintcatherine #stcatherine #catherine #siena #stcatherineofsiena #eleanorfortescuebrickdale #eleanor #famouswomen

Lord, thank you for the gifts that you have given each one of us. We are truly your children and most wonderful creation. May we appreciate how intricately we are created and how personally you wish to communicate with us. When we see brokenness and need in the world, may we rush to serve and give of ourselves. Help us to model ourselves after you, laying down your life for your Church. Thank you for raising up great saints like St. Catherine of Siena. Thank you for her model of suffering, perseverance, and great love for you. Set us ablaze with your graces and the virtues of faith, hope, and charity. Help us follow in St. Catherine’s footsteps and use our gifts for the benefit of your Kingdom. Make our hearts burn with passionate love for you, Jesus.

St. Catherine of Siena, pray for us!

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #saintcatherine #stcatherine #catherine #siena #stcatherineofsiena #eleanorfortescuebrickdale #eleanor #famouswomen

Lord, thank you for the gifts that you have given each one of us. We are truly your children and most wonderful creation. May we appreciate how intricately we are created and how personally you wish to communicate with us. When we see brokenness and need in the world, may we rush to serve and give of ourselves. Help us to model ourselves after you, laying down your life for your Church. Thank you for raising up great saints like St. Catherine of Siena. Thank you for her model of suffering, perseverance, and great love for you. Set us ablaze with your graces and the virtues of faith, hope, and charity. Help us follow in St. Catherine’s footsteps and use our gifts for the benefit of your Kingdom. Make our hearts burn with passionate love for you, Jesus.

St. Catherine of Siena, pray for us!

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #saintcatherine #stcatherine #catherine #siena #stcatherineofsiena #eleanorfortescuebrickdale #eleanor #famouswomen

“Be who God meant you to be and you will set the whole world on fire.”

St. Catherine of Siena truly did set the world on fire that destroyed heresies and brokenness, cleansing the world to be pure for God. I think that we should all be inspired to do the same, purifying ourselves and then also bringing others will us to heaven. She was a mystic of fire because His love was lit brightly in her heart. This was evident to all who met her and heard her talk with the passion and directness that she did. She knows that her wealth and true success is in heaven. So even though she does her best to set straight these leaders and the whole Church, she has abandoned herself to His Will.

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Image: Saint Catherine of Siena, Eleanor Fortescue-Brickdale, 1919. The Golden Book of Famous Women, Eleanor Foretescue-Brickdale.
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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #saintcatherine #stcatherine #catherine #siena #stcatherineofsiena #eleanorfortescuebrickdale #eleanor #famouswomen

“Be who God meant you to be and you will set the whole world on fire.”

St. Catherine of Siena truly did set the world on fire that destroyed heresies and brokenness, cleansing the world to be pure for God. I think that we should all be inspired to do the same, purifying ourselves and then also bringing others will us to heaven. She was a mystic of fire because His love was lit brightly in her heart. This was evident to all who met her and heard her talk with the passion and directness that she did. She knows that her wealth and true success is in heaven. So even though she does her best to set straight these leaders and the whole Church, she has abandoned herself to His Will.

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Image: Saint Catherine of Siena, Eleanor Fortescue-Brickdale, 1919. The Golden Book of Famous Women, Eleanor Foretescue-Brickdale.
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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #saintcatherine #stcatherine #catherine #siena #stcatherineofsiena #eleanorfortescuebrickdale #eleanor #famouswomen

Do you identify more with Peter or James and John when meditating on the Transfiguration?

Where does the Lord desire to transform you more fully?

How has Jesus Christ purified you and made you more like Him this Lent?

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Image: Transfiguration mosaic, 6th century. St. Catherine’s Monastery, Mt. Sinai, Egypt.
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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #transfiguration #mtsinai #mount #sinai #mosaic #lent #holyweek #luminousmystery #luminous #heavenlyvision #Christ #Jesus #StAthanasius

Do you identify more with Peter or James and John when meditating on the Transfiguration?

Where does the Lord desire to transform you more fully?

How has Jesus Christ purified you and made you more like Him this Lent?

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Image: Transfiguration mosaic, 6th century. St. Catherine’s Monastery, Mt. Sinai, Egypt.
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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #transfiguration #mtsinai #mount #sinai #mosaic #lent #holyweek #luminousmystery #luminous #heavenlyvision #Christ #Jesus #StAthanasius

Lord, thank you for showing us your face in your Son, Jesus Christ. He was the best gift to the world that you did not have to give. Your love for us moves me to praise you, thank you, cry out with wonder and awe, and try to love you as much as you do me. Help me to see how you are purifying me in the trials and tribulations of life. Help me to be more like you and imitate you in all that I do. When you show up in my life, may I fall down in wonder and amazement, acknowledging how good it is for you to be here. Thank you for being present in me and revealing your glory through your Church, your Creation, and those around me. May you everyday reveal more of your glory and goodness so that I may praise you all the more.

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #transfiguration #mtsinai #mount #sinai #mosaic #lent #holyweek #luminousmystery #luminous #heavenlyvision #Christ #Jesus #StAthanasius

Lord, thank you for showing us your face in your Son, Jesus Christ. He was the best gift to the world that you did not have to give. Your love for us moves me to praise you, thank you, cry out with wonder and awe, and try to love you as much as you do me. Help me to see how you are purifying me in the trials and tribulations of life. Help me to be more like you and imitate you in all that I do. When you show up in my life, may I fall down in wonder and amazement, acknowledging how good it is for you to be here. Thank you for being present in me and revealing your glory through your Church, your Creation, and those around me. May you everyday reveal more of your glory and goodness so that I may praise you all the more.

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #transfiguration #mtsinai #mount #sinai #mosaic #lent #holyweek #luminousmystery #luminous #heavenlyvision #Christ #Jesus #StAthanasius

“It is for us now to follow him with all speed, yearning for the heavenly vision that will give us a share in his radiance, renew our spiritual nature and transform us into his own likeness, making us for ever sharers in his Godhead and raising us to heights as yet undreamed of.”
- St. Athanasius of Sinai

The journey to glory is through suffering and the laying down of our life. As we enter into Holy Week, it is a wonderful time to reflect over the purification and struggle that we have gone through this Lent. You may have been able to take up your penance, fasting, and almsgiving with joy and ease experiencing spiritual consolation. Or this may have been a time of desolation where each choice to follow Christ and do the harder thing was difficult and caused great pain.

No matter how this Lent has gone, Christ has been walking with you in it. Now it is our turn to walk with Him on the path of the cross. The Transfiguration event tells us that Christ will be forever in the glorified state only after the cross, after his death. Before glorification comes purification which we ourselves have experienced and will continue until we ourselves die and eventually reach our heavenly home.

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Image: Transfiguration mosaic, 6th century. St. Catherine’s Monastery, Mt. Sinai, Egypt.
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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #transfiguration #mtsinai #mount #sinai #mosaic #lent #holyweek #luminousmystery #luminous #heavenlyvision #Christ #Jesus #StAthanasius

“It is for us now to follow him with all speed, yearning for the heavenly vision that will give us a share in his radiance, renew our spiritual nature and transform us into his own likeness, making us for ever sharers in his Godhead and raising us to heights as yet undreamed of.”
- St. Athanasius of Sinai

The journey to glory is through suffering and the laying down of our life. As we enter into Holy Week, it is a wonderful time to reflect over the purification and struggle that we have gone through this Lent. You may have been able to take up your penance, fasting, and almsgiving with joy and ease experiencing spiritual consolation. Or this may have been a time of desolation where each choice to follow Christ and do the harder thing was difficult and caused great pain.

No matter how this Lent has gone, Christ has been walking with you in it. Now it is our turn to walk with Him on the path of the cross. The Transfiguration event tells us that Christ will be forever in the glorified state only after the cross, after his death. Before glorification comes purification which we ourselves have experienced and will continue until we ourselves die and eventually reach our heavenly home.

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Image: Transfiguration mosaic, 6th century. St. Catherine’s Monastery, Mt. Sinai, Egypt.
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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #transfiguration #mtsinai #mount #sinai #mosaic #lent #holyweek #luminousmystery #luminous #heavenlyvision #Christ #Jesus #StAthanasius

Who do you find yourself to feel the most like today - the younger son, the father, a servant, or the older son?

Where in our lives do we need to go to the Lord for forgiveness in humility and hope of mercy?

How has the Lord ran to meet you in your sinful state and fallen nature? Are you running to meet him?

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Image: The Return of the Prodigal Son, Rembrandt van Rijn, 1669. Hermitage Museum, Saint Petersburg, Russia.
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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #prodigalson #prodigal #son #goodfather #rembrandt #russia #hermitagemuseum #hermitage #museum

Who do you find yourself to feel the most like today - the younger son, the father, a servant, or the older son?

Where in our lives do we need to go to the Lord for forgiveness in humility and hope of mercy?

How has the Lord ran to meet you in your sinful state and fallen nature? Are you running to meet him?

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Image: The Return of the Prodigal Son, Rembrandt van Rijn, 1669. Hermitage Museum, Saint Petersburg, Russia.
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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #prodigalson #prodigal #son #goodfather #rembrandt #russia #hermitagemuseum #hermitage #museum

Lord, thank you for the parable of the prodigal son. It is a gift to hear your lessons and experience them as realities in our own lives. Help us to run towards you in our sinfulness in humility and desire for reconciliation. May we see how you are coming to meet us in love and mercy. Let me rest my head upon your warm, forgiving, and loving embrace. You are a Good Father and we love being your true children. In preparation for your resurrection at Easter, help us to rid ourselves of our sinful nature and offer forgiveness to ourselves and others. Resurrect our right relationship with you and may we appreciate and accept the wonderful gifts you give us.

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #prodigalson #prodigal #son #goodfather #rembrandt #russia #hermitagemuseum #hermitage #museum

Lord, thank you for the parable of the prodigal son. It is a gift to hear your lessons and experience them as realities in our own lives. Help us to run towards you in our sinfulness in humility and desire for reconciliation. May we see how you are coming to meet us in love and mercy. Let me rest my head upon your warm, forgiving, and loving embrace. You are a Good Father and we love being your true children. In preparation for your resurrection at Easter, help us to rid ourselves of our sinful nature and offer forgiveness to ourselves and others. Resurrect our right relationship with you and may we appreciate and accept the wonderful gifts you give us.

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #prodigalson #prodigal #son #goodfather #rembrandt #russia #hermitagemuseum #hermitage #museum

The good news of this Gospel parable is that Our Lord is like the father. When the son came to his senses and starting to go home, his father saw him from far off and ran to him. He did not wait for him to get there and grovel or send someone else to bring him in. But he himself was filled with compassion, dropped everything he had, and went to the son. He had no idea where the son had been or what happened, only that he had returned.

His son had a practiced script in his head of what he was going to say to his father to convince him to let him return not as a son, but as servant. The son was expecting wrath and difficulty and a life of sorrow. Instead, his father went out to him and brought him back into the family no questions asked.

The father knew and saw that the son had already been through enough punishment and struggles so that he did not have to push it on him any further. The father could just receive the son and love him for coming back to him. God loves when we return to Him, especially after sin. When we return to the Lord it is like a resurrection of our very soul and body. We are no longer dead in sin, but alive in Christ. Alive in relationship with our very, very Good Father.

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Image: The Return of the Prodigal Son, Rembrandt van Rijn, 1669. Hermitage Museum, Saint Petersburg, Russia.
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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #prodigalson #prodigal #son #goodfather #rembrandt #russia #hermitagemuseum #hermitage #museum

The good news of this Gospel parable is that Our Lord is like the father. When the son came to his senses and starting to go home, his father saw him from far off and ran to him. He did not wait for him to get there and grovel or send someone else to bring him in. But he himself was filled with compassion, dropped everything he had, and went to the son. He had no idea where the son had been or what happened, only that he had returned.

His son had a practiced script in his head of what he was going to say to his father to convince him to let him return not as a son, but as servant. The son was expecting wrath and difficulty and a life of sorrow. Instead, his father went out to him and brought him back into the family no questions asked.

The father knew and saw that the son had already been through enough punishment and struggles so that he did not have to push it on him any further. The father could just receive the son and love him for coming back to him. God loves when we return to Him, especially after sin. When we return to the Lord it is like a resurrection of our very soul and body. We are no longer dead in sin, but alive in Christ. Alive in relationship with our very, very Good Father.

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Image: The Return of the Prodigal Son, Rembrandt van Rijn, 1669. Hermitage Museum, Saint Petersburg, Russia.
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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #prodigalson #prodigal #son #goodfather #rembrandt #russia #hermitagemuseum #hermitage #museum

Who is the patron? Why did they commission this specific piece?

Was this art piece meant to be in a home? An office? A museum? An art show? How does this affect how it is seen and who it is seen by? How could this influence the culture?

What materials were used to create this piece? Was it expensive or cheap? Why did they use those materials?

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #economy #economic #marxism #economicperspective #historical #cultural #political #patronage #methodology

Who is the patron? Why did they commission this specific piece?

Was this art piece meant to be in a home? An office? A museum? An art show? How does this affect how it is seen and who it is seen by? How could this influence the culture?

What materials were used to create this piece? Was it expensive or cheap? Why did they use those materials?

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #economy #economic #marxism #economicperspective #historical #cultural #political #patronage #methodology

Lord, you guide and influence us even when we do not realize it. Help us to see your influence in the unlikely places, including the economy, society, politics, and work. Let us experience your guiding hand in all that we are involved in. Your beauty and the art you inspire does not exist in a vacuum or by itself. It is in your uniquely created world that influences how we get to partake in your creative work. The process and reasons of creation is an opportunity to see, know and love you Lord. Bring us to desire your presence in our work and exploration of sacred art.

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #economy #economic #marxism #economicperspective #historical #cultural #political #patronage #methodology

Lord, you guide and influence us even when we do not realize it. Help us to see your influence in the unlikely places, including the economy, society, politics, and work. Let us experience your guiding hand in all that we are involved in. Your beauty and the art you inspire does not exist in a vacuum or by itself. It is in your uniquely created world that influences how we get to partake in your creative work. The process and reasons of creation is an opportunity to see, know and love you Lord. Bring us to desire your presence in our work and exploration of sacred art.

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #economy #economic #marxism #economicperspective #historical #cultural #political #patronage #methodology

If you know me you know that I am not great at math. Anything with numbers, budgets, calculating is just not going to go well in my mind. So when it came to an economic methodology in art history I was not quite interested at all. It was not until I talked with my more business minded friends that I saw how wonderful this method can be. If you like the numbers and following the money then this methodology will be a great one for you to use.

The goal of this methodology is that art is just another form of economic production. The steps to applying it are to look at the historical, cultural, economic and political questions that are connected to the art piece. It is less about what the art is about but more on questions of patronage, where it was seen first, what was used to make the art piece, what symbols of wealth, economics, and politics are within the painting, and more.

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #economy #economic #marxism #economicperspective #historical #cultural #political #patronage #methodology

If you know me you know that I am not great at math. Anything with numbers, budgets, calculating is just not going to go well in my mind. So when it came to an economic methodology in art history I was not quite interested at all. It was not until I talked with my more business minded friends that I saw how wonderful this method can be. If you like the numbers and following the money then this methodology will be a great one for you to use.

The goal of this methodology is that art is just another form of economic production. The steps to applying it are to look at the historical, cultural, economic and political questions that are connected to the art piece. It is less about what the art is about but more on questions of patronage, where it was seen first, what was used to make the art piece, what symbols of wealth, economics, and politics are within the painting, and more.

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #economy #economic #marxism #economicperspective #historical #cultural #political #patronage #methodology

When is the last time that you have been surrounded by nature by yourself?

What vastness within yourself is the Lord calling you to dive into with Him, not in fear or loneliness, but in bravery with Him?

How does this painting make you feel? Do you feel small, safe, uneasy, or a different emotion?

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Image: The Monk by the Sea, Caspar David Friedrich, 1808-1810. Alte Nationalgalerie, Berlin, Germany.
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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #monkbythesea #monk #sea #nautical #abyss #caspar #david #friedrich #caspardavidfriedrich #berlin #germany

When is the last time that you have been surrounded by nature by yourself?

What vastness within yourself is the Lord calling you to dive into with Him, not in fear or loneliness, but in bravery with Him?

How does this painting make you feel? Do you feel small, safe, uneasy, or a different emotion?

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Image: The Monk by the Sea, Caspar David Friedrich, 1808-1810. Alte Nationalgalerie, Berlin, Germany.
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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #monkbythesea #monk #sea #nautical #abyss #caspar #david #friedrich #caspardavidfriedrich #berlin #germany

Lord, thank you for the daily choices that you allow us to make. You have granted us the gift of life and the ability to create our path back to you. When we feel like we are at the edge of a terrifying unknown, comfort us. When we feel like you desire to pull us into the depths, may we release control. When you want us to walk through the valley of darkness, may we fear no evil. God, you are a good Father and seek to show your truth, goodness, and beauty throughout our daily lives. Help us to see you constantly, turning towards you in praise and thanksgiving.

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #monkbythesea #monk #sea #nautical #abyss #caspar #david #friedrich #caspardavidfriedrich #berlin #germany

Lord, thank you for the daily choices that you allow us to make. You have granted us the gift of life and the ability to create our path back to you. When we feel like we are at the edge of a terrifying unknown, comfort us. When we feel like you desire to pull us into the depths, may we release control. When you want us to walk through the valley of darkness, may we fear no evil. God, you are a good Father and seek to show your truth, goodness, and beauty throughout our daily lives. Help us to see you constantly, turning towards you in praise and thanksgiving.

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #monkbythesea #monk #sea #nautical #abyss #caspar #david #friedrich #caspardavidfriedrich #berlin #germany

This monk is walking along the edge of the vastness and unknown. He does not fear the edge or walk far away from the precipice. He knows the rockiness and roughness and danger that there is of falling, but he does not back away. It reminds me of what Mr. Beaver told Susan about Aslan. “Course he isn’t safe. But he’s good. He’s the King, I tell you.”

Our God is not safe because He is the Ruler and Creator of All, the Just Judge, the Almighty King, Our Heavenly Father. He is eternal and omnipotent and dangerous to all that is evil. To all that is good though? He is merciful and just and beautiful and true. He is the absolute. There is danger in the good because it goes against all the evil forces in the world. You are putting yourself at risk for attack by the evil one when you are on God’s side and do His will.

But is that not the amazing part of it?

The monk walking at the edge of the sea can be a way of understanding our walk in this world. There is a vast unknown of evil and vile things that lurk about, but we can walk on the straight and narrow path of the Lord. He will keep us near to Him and protect us. But protection does not mean that we will not get hit by a gust of wind or sprayed with the cold waters. When we know our Lord, we know that He triumphs over all. We will not be overcome by the darkness, Christ will overcome it. He will use the dangers to bring us closer to Him and to purify us so that we are even more His.

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Image: The Monk by the Sea, Caspar David Friedrich, 1808-1810. Alte Nationalgalerie, Berlin, Germany.
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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #monkbythesea #monk #sea #nautical #abyss #caspar #david #friedrich #caspardavidfriedrich #berlin #germany

This monk is walking along the edge of the vastness and unknown. He does not fear the edge or walk far away from the precipice. He knows the rockiness and roughness and danger that there is of falling, but he does not back away. It reminds me of what Mr. Beaver told Susan about Aslan. “Course he isn’t safe. But he’s good. He’s the King, I tell you.”

Our God is not safe because He is the Ruler and Creator of All, the Just Judge, the Almighty King, Our Heavenly Father. He is eternal and omnipotent and dangerous to all that is evil. To all that is good though? He is merciful and just and beautiful and true. He is the absolute. There is danger in the good because it goes against all the evil forces in the world. You are putting yourself at risk for attack by the evil one when you are on God’s side and do His will.

But is that not the amazing part of it?

The monk walking at the edge of the sea can be a way of understanding our walk in this world. There is a vast unknown of evil and vile things that lurk about, but we can walk on the straight and narrow path of the Lord. He will keep us near to Him and protect us. But protection does not mean that we will not get hit by a gust of wind or sprayed with the cold waters. When we know our Lord, we know that He triumphs over all. We will not be overcome by the darkness, Christ will overcome it. He will use the dangers to bring us closer to Him and to purify us so that we are even more His.

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Image: The Monk by the Sea, Caspar David Friedrich, 1808-1810. Alte Nationalgalerie, Berlin, Germany.
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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #monkbythesea #monk #sea #nautical #abyss #caspar #david #friedrich #caspardavidfriedrich #berlin #germany

Is this art piece created by a woman, for a woman, or includes woman in the piece?

What does this piece reveal about women?

How is femininity and the identity of women portrayed and showed within this piece?

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #feminine #perspective #feminineperspective #woman #womanhood #femininity #gifts #grace

Is this art piece created by a woman, for a woman, or includes woman in the piece?

What does this piece reveal about women?

How is femininity and the identity of women portrayed and showed within this piece?

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #feminine #perspective #feminineperspective #woman #womanhood #femininity #gifts #grace

Lord, thank you for the gift that is femininity and womanhood. You have always included and emphasized the importance of women’s thoughts, perspectives, and importance. Our Blessed Mother is the woman who brought the Savior of us all into humanity and her womanhood does not go unnoticed. May we recognize with places, times, and spaces in which woman have been forgotten but be at peace knowing that you never forgot or abandoned them. You, the most magnificent Lord and God of all creation, give us our dignity and importance. Help us to celebrate in our femininity while understanding and accepting our place in your divine plan and intimately known universe. May we feel your loving hands and listening heart today.

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #feminine #perspective #feminineperspective #woman #womanhood #femininity #gifts #grace

Lord, thank you for the gift that is femininity and womanhood. You have always included and emphasized the importance of women’s thoughts, perspectives, and importance. Our Blessed Mother is the woman who brought the Savior of us all into humanity and her womanhood does not go unnoticed. May we recognize with places, times, and spaces in which woman have been forgotten but be at peace knowing that you never forgot or abandoned them. You, the most magnificent Lord and God of all creation, give us our dignity and importance. Help us to celebrate in our femininity while understanding and accepting our place in your divine plan and intimately known universe. May we feel your loving hands and listening heart today.

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #feminine #perspective #feminineperspective #woman #womanhood #femininity #gifts #grace

In normal art history methodology, this approach is called feminist art history. This is a newer methodology that has several varied and multiple approaches, so I will be taking a different twist on this. I think a better way to see this in the Catholic lens is by calling it the feminine perspective method. This will keep the main goal which is to focus on women artists, patrons, viewers, and/or subjects when looking at art. The Catholic lens highlights the importance of femininity without making it about feminism, which is so often about tearing down men or destroying what is means to actually be a woman. This method is concerned with how being a woman and the gift of femininity affects the artists imagery, career, and more.

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #feminine #perspective #feminineperspective #woman #womanhood #femininity #gifts #grace

In normal art history methodology, this approach is called feminist art history. This is a newer methodology that has several varied and multiple approaches, so I will be taking a different twist on this. I think a better way to see this in the Catholic lens is by calling it the feminine perspective method. This will keep the main goal which is to focus on women artists, patrons, viewers, and/or subjects when looking at art. The Catholic lens highlights the importance of femininity without making it about feminism, which is so often about tearing down men or destroying what is means to actually be a woman. This method is concerned with how being a woman and the gift of femininity affects the artists imagery, career, and more.

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #feminine #perspective #feminineperspective #woman #womanhood #femininity #gifts #grace

Do you have siblings or close friends who are like siblings? How do your strengths and weaknesses complement one another? How can you bring one another closer to Christ?

How can you support modern Catholic artists?

What are the usual culprits in distracting you from the person in front of you? How can you lessen these distractions?

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Image: St. Scholastica, Gwyneth Thompson-Briggs, 2020. https://gwyneththompsonbriggs.com/portfolio-item/st-scholastica
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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #semiotics #howtoapproachart #analyze #understand #signfied #signifier

Do you have siblings or close friends who are like siblings? How do your strengths and weaknesses complement one another? How can you bring one another closer to Christ?

How can you support modern Catholic artists?

What are the usual culprits in distracting you from the person in front of you? How can you lessen these distractions?

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Image: St. Scholastica, Gwyneth Thompson-Briggs, 2020. https://gwyneththompsonbriggs.com/portfolio-item/st-scholastica
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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #semiotics #howtoapproachart #analyze #understand #signfied #signifier

Lord, thank you for the hiddenness of so many of your saints. It brings me such hope that when I feel hidden, not chosen, or not special that you see me for who I am. You see me as your beloved child for whom you sent your only Son. Help us to have confidence in our worth and be humble in your call for our life as St. Scholastica did. May we be strengthened in love of you and made holier by those who are further along in the spiritual life. Lessen the attitude and habit of comparison, replacing it with the a spirit of rejoicing in your goodness. All the graces that you pour out in the world help to build up the entirety of the Body of Christ. Thank you for listening to our prayers and making us your children.

St. Scholastica, pray for us!

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #semiotics #howtoapproachart #analyze #understand #signfied #signifier

Lord, thank you for the hiddenness of so many of your saints. It brings me such hope that when I feel hidden, not chosen, or not special that you see me for who I am. You see me as your beloved child for whom you sent your only Son. Help us to have confidence in our worth and be humble in your call for our life as St. Scholastica did. May we be strengthened in love of you and made holier by those who are further along in the spiritual life. Lessen the attitude and habit of comparison, replacing it with the a spirit of rejoicing in your goodness. All the graces that you pour out in the world help to build up the entirety of the Body of Christ. Thank you for listening to our prayers and making us your children.

St. Scholastica, pray for us!

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #semiotics #howtoapproachart #analyze #understand #signfied #signifier

I find myself gazing deep into St. Scholastica’s eyes, trying to know her better than I do and discerning what she has to say. I have a deep soft spot in my heart for St. Scholastica, the sister of St. Benedict. Her brother was well known, well loved and followed but instead of being jealous she decided to follow him in his holiness. She wanted to follow his rule and did just that - as well as bringing many other women with her. I think that she provides a great example to us who can get easily jealous of the spiritual gifts and work of others. It is so easy to compare and feel less than when we see the Lord working wonderful things in another’s life. I fall into this comparison easily and it makes me feel disheartened that I am not as blessed as another. Scholastica could have felt that way and perhaps maybe did, but she must have known that her brother had many struggles and sacrifices that went along with his blessings and closeness to the Lord. Scholastica also focused instead on her own holiness and what she could control in her own life. She was aware of how the Lord was working in her life and listened to His call. She instead chose to celebrate other’s blessings and join in the worship of the Lord, instead of pushing them away.

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Image: St. Scholastica, Gwyneth Thompson-Briggs, 2020. https://gwyneththompsonbriggs.com/portfolio-item/st-scholastica
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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #semiotics #howtoapproachart #analyze #understand #signfied #signifier

I find myself gazing deep into St. Scholastica’s eyes, trying to know her better than I do and discerning what she has to say. I have a deep soft spot in my heart for St. Scholastica, the sister of St. Benedict. Her brother was well known, well loved and followed but instead of being jealous she decided to follow him in his holiness. She wanted to follow his rule and did just that - as well as bringing many other women with her. I think that she provides a great example to us who can get easily jealous of the spiritual gifts and work of others. It is so easy to compare and feel less than when we see the Lord working wonderful things in another’s life. I fall into this comparison easily and it makes me feel disheartened that I am not as blessed as another. Scholastica could have felt that way and perhaps maybe did, but she must have known that her brother had many struggles and sacrifices that went along with his blessings and closeness to the Lord. Scholastica also focused instead on her own holiness and what she could control in her own life. She was aware of how the Lord was working in her life and listened to His call. She instead chose to celebrate other’s blessings and join in the worship of the Lord, instead of pushing them away.

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Image: St. Scholastica, Gwyneth Thompson-Briggs, 2020. https://gwyneththompsonbriggs.com/portfolio-item/st-scholastica
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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #semiotics #howtoapproachart #analyze #understand #signfied #signifier

What signs, symbols, icons, and indexes do you see within this piece?

What do these things we mean?

How are these things communicated to us?

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #semiotics #howtoapproachart #analyze #understand #signfied #signifier

What signs, symbols, icons, and indexes do you see within this piece?

What do these things we mean?

How are these things communicated to us?

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #semiotics #howtoapproachart #analyze #understand #signfied #signifier

Lord, thank you for giving us numerous signs of your presence. We praise you for making us creatures that always search for meaning and understanding in this world you have created for us. May we have a renewed curiosity in the signs and symbols that you place in our lives and seek out understanding what they mean. Help us to have fresh eyes on how you communicate with us everyday of our lives. Help us to be living signs of you and your Son, Jesus Christ, so that when others see us they see a reflection of you. May we be like the saints that signify your universal virtue and charity that is beyond all imagination. Thank you for loving us to make a life worth diving into and for beautiful mysteries to be unfolded.

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #semiotics #howtoapproachart #analyze #understand #signfied #signifier

Lord, thank you for giving us numerous signs of your presence. We praise you for making us creatures that always search for meaning and understanding in this world you have created for us. May we have a renewed curiosity in the signs and symbols that you place in our lives and seek out understanding what they mean. Help us to have fresh eyes on how you communicate with us everyday of our lives. Help us to be living signs of you and your Son, Jesus Christ, so that when others see us they see a reflection of you. May we be like the saints that signify your universal virtue and charity that is beyond all imagination. Thank you for loving us to make a life worth diving into and for beautiful mysteries to be unfolded.

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #semiotics #howtoapproachart #analyze #understand #signfied #signifier

The Signifier is the form the sign takes whether it is a motion, gesture, sound, image, pattern or event that conveys meaning and communicates while the Signified is the concept it represents. Lets take a rose for an example. The signifier would be the word “rose” itself, a picture of a rose, the rose smell, or an outline of the rose. The signified would be the mental image of the rose and the physical rose itself. The signifier is connected with connotations, which are the feelings, ideas and cultural meanings which are associated with the word or object rather than the literal meaning. Take our rose example - the connotation could be romance, love, Valentine’s Day. The signified is connected with the denotation, which is the literal and primary meaning of a word, in contrast to the feelings or ideas that the word suggests.

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #semiotics #howtoapproachart #analyze #understand #signfied #signifier

The Signifier is the form the sign takes whether it is a motion, gesture, sound, image, pattern or event that conveys meaning and communicates while the Signified is the concept it represents. Lets take a rose for an example. The signifier would be the word “rose” itself, a picture of a rose, the rose smell, or an outline of the rose. The signified would be the mental image of the rose and the physical rose itself. The signifier is connected with connotations, which are the feelings, ideas and cultural meanings which are associated with the word or object rather than the literal meaning. Take our rose example - the connotation could be romance, love, Valentine’s Day. The signified is connected with the denotation, which is the literal and primary meaning of a word, in contrast to the feelings or ideas that the word suggests.

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #semiotics #howtoapproachart #analyze #understand #signfied #signifier

How do you experience spiritual and physical motherhood?

If you are a woman, how do you practice spiritual and/or physical motherhood?

If you are a man, how do you support the women in your life to practice spiritual and/or physical motherhood?

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #maternity #physicalmotherhood #spiritualmotherhood #motherhood #fruitfulness #edmundblairleigthon #edmund #blair #leighton

How do you experience spiritual and physical motherhood?

If you are a woman, how do you practice spiritual and/or physical motherhood?

If you are a man, how do you support the women in your life to practice spiritual and/or physical motherhood?

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #maternity #physicalmotherhood #spiritualmotherhood #motherhood #fruitfulness #edmundblairleigthon #edmund #blair #leighton

Thank you for the gift of maternity. May I never take for granted the ability to receive and give it all back to you. When I feel inadequate or like the weight of the world is on my shoulders, help me to turn to you, whose yoke is easy and burden light. Mother Mary, show us how to be a physical and spiritual mother in the way that the Lord calls us to be. Help us to support the mothers in our lives and praise them for their work. May the maternal struggle and suffering not go unnoticed, but be secure in the fact that the Lord sees all even if it is in secret. May all women see, feel and know their maternal gift and call to receive and give forth all that the Lord gives.

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #maternity #physicalmotherhood #spiritualmotherhood #motherhood #fruitfulness #edmundblairleigthon #edmund #blair #leighton

Thank you for the gift of maternity. May I never take for granted the ability to receive and give it all back to you. When I feel inadequate or like the weight of the world is on my shoulders, help me to turn to you, whose yoke is easy and burden light. Mother Mary, show us how to be a physical and spiritual mother in the way that the Lord calls us to be. Help us to support the mothers in our lives and praise them for their work. May the maternal struggle and suffering not go unnoticed, but be secure in the fact that the Lord sees all even if it is in secret. May all women see, feel and know their maternal gift and call to receive and give forth all that the Lord gives.

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #maternity #physicalmotherhood #spiritualmotherhood #motherhood #fruitfulness #edmundblairleigthon #edmund #blair #leighton

Within all women is a special maternity that is a God-given gift. Maternity has two sides of it - a reception of the human person and a total gift and letting go of that person to God. In physical and spiritual maternity there must be both - a receiving and letting go. We receive the human person by being a soft landing spot for their every need. Women’s bodies are made to receive, we have a womb - physical space - for the human person. As a physical mother, we experience this as our child coming to us when they have any need. We are called to be attentive to them, setting aside the various tasks that we are called to in care for them. We listen to their cries and concerns, comfort them in their sorrow, cheer them on in their successes, and share in their joys. Women are called to do the same spiritually to the other people in their lives. If you know any religious sisters think of how they receive and listen to those around them. Their physically empty wombs make space for the hearts of all humanity. There is safety to be found in a woman that is maternal and that receives.

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Image: Maternity, Edmund Blair Leighton, 1917. Given by the artist to H.M. Grayson, Lancaster Gate, London, U.K.
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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #maternity #physicalmotherhood #spiritualmotherhood #motherhood #fruitfulness #edmundblairleigthon #edmund #blair #leighton

Within all women is a special maternity that is a God-given gift. Maternity has two sides of it - a reception of the human person and a total gift and letting go of that person to God. In physical and spiritual maternity there must be both - a receiving and letting go. We receive the human person by being a soft landing spot for their every need. Women’s bodies are made to receive, we have a womb - physical space - for the human person. As a physical mother, we experience this as our child coming to us when they have any need. We are called to be attentive to them, setting aside the various tasks that we are called to in care for them. We listen to their cries and concerns, comfort them in their sorrow, cheer them on in their successes, and share in their joys. Women are called to do the same spiritually to the other people in their lives. If you know any religious sisters think of how they receive and listen to those around them. Their physically empty wombs make space for the hearts of all humanity. There is safety to be found in a woman that is maternal and that receives.

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Image: Maternity, Edmund Blair Leighton, 1917. Given by the artist to H.M. Grayson, Lancaster Gate, London, U.K.
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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #maternity #physicalmotherhood #spiritualmotherhood #motherhood #fruitfulness #edmundblairleigthon #edmund #blair #leighton

How do you know what and who is in this painting?

What was the purpose of the artwork?

What do you think the artist intended by this artwork?

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #iconology #iconography #primary #tertiary #secondary #meaning #erwinpanofsky #panofsky

How do you know what and who is in this painting?

What was the purpose of the artwork?

What do you think the artist intended by this artwork?

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #iconology #iconography #primary #tertiary #secondary #meaning #erwinpanofsky #panofsky

Lord, you gave us our meaning, our dignity, our very being. Thank you for the gift of meaning that you imbue into everything you create and that you inspire. Unveil my darkened eyes to the light of your love and meaning. I willingly submit myself to your Everlasting Wisdom, bringing me closer to you each and everyday. Forgive me for the times I ignore your eternal plan and wisdom, help me to be convinced that your plan is better than mine.

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #iconology #iconography #primary #tertiary #secondary #meaning #erwinpanofsky #panofsky

Lord, you gave us our meaning, our dignity, our very being. Thank you for the gift of meaning that you imbue into everything you create and that you inspire. Unveil my darkened eyes to the light of your love and meaning. I willingly submit myself to your Everlasting Wisdom, bringing me closer to you each and everyday. Forgive me for the times I ignore your eternal plan and wisdom, help me to be convinced that your plan is better than mine.

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #iconology #iconography #primary #tertiary #secondary #meaning #erwinpanofsky #panofsky

Determining the meaning of things is important and what our minds go to first when looking at an artwork. Starting at the basis of “What do you see?” and being able to describe it is a tool that will help us in all aspects of our life. Being able to understand who or what is in the painting other than just reading the title is such a great tool. We can start to identify why we identify things as such and what are core symbols that are connected to a specific person, place or thing. In sacred art it empowers us to know what is in artworks and we can constantly grow in understanding of the meaning. Just take the Scriptures as an example - Jesus gave us so many parables and taught so many lessons but without understanding what they mean they are just empty stories and sayings. The meaning that is intended and imbued within Scriptures, Tradition and sacred art will only bring us closer to Jesus Christ if we only search to understand it.

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #iconology #iconography #primary #tertiary #secondary #meaning #erwinpanofsky #panofsky

Determining the meaning of things is important and what our minds go to first when looking at an artwork. Starting at the basis of “What do you see?” and being able to describe it is a tool that will help us in all aspects of our life. Being able to understand who or what is in the painting other than just reading the title is such a great tool. We can start to identify why we identify things as such and what are core symbols that are connected to a specific person, place or thing. In sacred art it empowers us to know what is in artworks and we can constantly grow in understanding of the meaning. Just take the Scriptures as an example - Jesus gave us so many parables and taught so many lessons but without understanding what they mean they are just empty stories and sayings. The meaning that is intended and imbued within Scriptures, Tradition and sacred art will only bring us closer to Jesus Christ if we only search to understand it.

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #iconology #iconography #primary #tertiary #secondary #meaning #erwinpanofsky #panofsky

What Marian apparition is your favorite? Why?

What is hard to believe about the Immaculate Conception? What does the Lord desire to show and teach you through this dogma?

What Catholic Tradition means the most to you?

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Image: The Immaculate Conception, Giovanni Battista Tiepolo, 1767-69. Prado Museum, Madrid, Spain.
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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #immaculateconception #feastday #tiepolo #madrid #mary #giovannibattistatiepolo #pradomuseum

What Marian apparition is your favorite? Why?

What is hard to believe about the Immaculate Conception? What does the Lord desire to show and teach you through this dogma?

What Catholic Tradition means the most to you?

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Image: The Immaculate Conception, Giovanni Battista Tiepolo, 1767-69. Prado Museum, Madrid, Spain.
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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #immaculateconception #feastday #tiepolo #madrid #mary #giovannibattistatiepolo #pradomuseum

Lord, thank you for planning the entirety of history. You protected Mary from original sin from the moment of her conception because you knew the role that she would play in salvation history. You lay the groundwork for your most perfect plan before we even have an inclining of what to dream about. Mary, our mother, show us your immaculateness. We desire your perfection and to partake in your virginal purity, no matter our state in life. Teach us how to receive all from the Lord as gift but never keeping any of it for ourselves. You show us the fruitfulness of giving everything to the Lord, may we emulate your fruitfulness.

Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, pray for us!

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #immaculateconception #feastday #tiepolo #madrid #mary #giovannibattistatiepolo #pradomuseum

Lord, thank you for planning the entirety of history. You protected Mary from original sin from the moment of her conception because you knew the role that she would play in salvation history. You lay the groundwork for your most perfect plan before we even have an inclining of what to dream about. Mary, our mother, show us your immaculateness. We desire your perfection and to partake in your virginal purity, no matter our state in life. Teach us how to receive all from the Lord as gift but never keeping any of it for ourselves. You show us the fruitfulness of giving everything to the Lord, may we emulate your fruitfulness.

Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, pray for us!

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #immaculateconception #feastday #tiepolo #madrid #mary #giovannibattistatiepolo #pradomuseum

“I am the Immaculate Conception”

These words provide a comforting feeling to me, as it reminds me of my favorite apparition of Mary to St. Bernadette in Lourdes, France. Our Lady appeared to Bernadette in 1858, just four years after the Church proclaimed the teaching of the Immaculate Conception as a dogma. Although it was a few years after the dogmatic declaration, St. Bernadette was a peasant girl who would not have had the knowledge of understanding of what this meant. Mary appeared to Bernadette to give her the message of God’s great love for us, no matter what. She also reminded us that happiness will not be in this world, but is waiting for us in heaven when we are united with God. Mary’s self identification as the Immaculate Conception shows how she wants us to realize how powerful, mighty and loving God is.

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Image: The Immaculate Conception, Giovanni Battista Tiepolo, 1767-69. Prado Museum, Madrid, Spain.
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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #immaculateconception #feastday #tiepolo #madrid #mary #giovannibattistatiepolo #pradomuseum

“I am the Immaculate Conception”

These words provide a comforting feeling to me, as it reminds me of my favorite apparition of Mary to St. Bernadette in Lourdes, France. Our Lady appeared to Bernadette in 1858, just four years after the Church proclaimed the teaching of the Immaculate Conception as a dogma. Although it was a few years after the dogmatic declaration, St. Bernadette was a peasant girl who would not have had the knowledge of understanding of what this meant. Mary appeared to Bernadette to give her the message of God’s great love for us, no matter what. She also reminded us that happiness will not be in this world, but is waiting for us in heaven when we are united with God. Mary’s self identification as the Immaculate Conception shows how she wants us to realize how powerful, mighty and loving God is.

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Image: The Immaculate Conception, Giovanni Battista Tiepolo, 1767-69. Prado Museum, Madrid, Spain.
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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #immaculateconception #feastday #tiepolo #madrid #mary #giovannibattistatiepolo #pradomuseum

Dialogue with God about what you see in the image and what you think. Ask Him to reveal what He wants to understand through the art.

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #visiodivina #lectiodivina #visio #divine #divineseeing #prayer

Dialogue with God about what you see in the image and what you think. Ask Him to reveal what He wants to understand through the art.

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #visiodivina #lectiodivina #visio #divine #divineseeing #prayer

Lord, thank you for the gift of beauty. Your truth and goodness radiates in what is beautiful. May I myself hold your truth and goodness within me so I may too be as beautiful as you. Creator of all, thank you for sacred art. You are the everlasting muse of the genius artists that show what is beautiful. Help me to dive deeper into the works inspired by your magnificence. Draw me closer to yourself through the sacred art that surrounds me.

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #visiodivina #lectiodivina #visio #divine #divineseeing #prayer

Lord, thank you for the gift of beauty. Your truth and goodness radiates in what is beautiful. May I myself hold your truth and goodness within me so I may too be as beautiful as you. Creator of all, thank you for sacred art. You are the everlasting muse of the genius artists that show what is beautiful. Help me to dive deeper into the works inspired by your magnificence. Draw me closer to yourself through the sacred art that surrounds me.

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #visiodivina #lectiodivina #visio #divine #divineseeing #prayer

A beautiful method to dive deeper into art is through visio divina. Visio divina is Latin for “divine seeing” and is a beautiful way to pray. It helps us make use of the deep visual tradition of the Church and sacred art and integrate it with our relationship with God. Being able to see the divine in everything around us whether it be a painting, sculpture, church, nature or other beautiful thing will help us recognize God. Visio divina has a long history in the Church whether or not it has been called that. As long as people have been making art, we have been trying to understand, interpret and dive deeper into its meaning and purpose. The stained glass and paintings in ancient churches were meant to instruct the faithful, teaching them the Scriptures and stories of the great saints. It still has this power and this purpose. Art can be instructive when we let it and God constantly wants to show His truth and beauty within sacred art.

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #visiodivina #lectiodivina #visio #divine #divineseeing #prayer

A beautiful method to dive deeper into art is through visio divina. Visio divina is Latin for “divine seeing” and is a beautiful way to pray. It helps us make use of the deep visual tradition of the Church and sacred art and integrate it with our relationship with God. Being able to see the divine in everything around us whether it be a painting, sculpture, church, nature or other beautiful thing will help us recognize God. Visio divina has a long history in the Church whether or not it has been called that. As long as people have been making art, we have been trying to understand, interpret and dive deeper into its meaning and purpose. The stained glass and paintings in ancient churches were meant to instruct the faithful, teaching them the Scriptures and stories of the great saints. It still has this power and this purpose. Art can be instructive when we let it and God constantly wants to show His truth and beauty within sacred art.

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #visiodivina #lectiodivina #visio #divine #divineseeing #prayer

Think about St. Joachim and Anne and their journey to have Mary. What do you think they are feeling right now?

How does Mary’s presentation in the temple compare to Jesus’?

Happy feast of the Presentation!
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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #presentation #mary #joachim #anne #presentationintemple #titian #venice #tradition

Think about St. Joachim and Anne and their journey to have Mary. What do you think they are feeling right now?

How does Mary’s presentation in the temple compare to Jesus’?

Happy feast of the Presentation!
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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #presentation #mary #joachim #anne #presentationintemple #titian #venice #tradition

Lord, thank you for the gift of your mother, Mary. Help us be confident in presenting ourselves to you as she was. May we walk with humility, love and the willingness to learn your way. You are a merciful God who loves to see us run to you as little children. Allow me to sprint to you in my need, my weakness, my joy, and my strength. Help all those who do not know how to be childlike in your presence. Grant them safety in being vulnerable and trusting their whole selves to you. Please grant me this same safety and trust. Mary - thank you for your yes that began way before your fiat at the Annunciation. Thank you for showing us the way to being the light of the world by carrying Christ within us.

Mary, Temple for the Light of the World, pray for us!

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #presentation #mary #joachim #anne #presentationintemple #titian #venice #tradition

Lord, thank you for the gift of your mother, Mary. Help us be confident in presenting ourselves to you as she was. May we walk with humility, love and the willingness to learn your way. You are a merciful God who loves to see us run to you as little children. Allow me to sprint to you in my need, my weakness, my joy, and my strength. Help all those who do not know how to be childlike in your presence. Grant them safety in being vulnerable and trusting their whole selves to you. Please grant me this same safety and trust. Mary - thank you for your yes that began way before your fiat at the Annunciation. Thank you for showing us the way to being the light of the world by carrying Christ within us.

Mary, Temple for the Light of the World, pray for us!

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #presentation #mary #joachim #anne #presentationintemple #titian #venice #tradition

In Mary’s perfection, she had no fear entering the temple. She confidently stepped forward away from her parents into the loving hands of the Lord. He created her in the womb, he knew her name and what history changing choices she would make when she was older. But yet, He asked for her yes at this point of her life, as a little child. And Mary said this fiat before an even bigger one. I think that the life of faith works this way too. When we are small and little in our faith life, only just beginning to experience conversion, God asks for little things. He may ask you to give Him something, or entrust something to Him, or give up something for His sake. It will be subtle and seemingly minor, but it always builds to bigger things. The Lord will not be satisfied with the tiniest part of your heart - He wants your whole being! While this seems daunting at times, it is something that we have the ability to work up to. God does not expect us to be saints at the heights of holiness at the beginning of our journey, thank goodness for that! He gives us time to loosen our stony hearts, clinging to our hard ways to replace it with the flesh that is true humanity. Over time, we can become more confident as Mary would have been, saying yes to the Lord and giving Him everything.

Image: The Presentation of the Virgin in the Temple, Titian. 1534-38. Gallerie dell’ Accademia, Venice.
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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #presentation #mary #joachim #anne #presentationintemple #titian #venice #tradition

In Mary’s perfection, she had no fear entering the temple. She confidently stepped forward away from her parents into the loving hands of the Lord. He created her in the womb, he knew her name and what history changing choices she would make when she was older. But yet, He asked for her yes at this point of her life, as a little child. And Mary said this fiat before an even bigger one. I think that the life of faith works this way too. When we are small and little in our faith life, only just beginning to experience conversion, God asks for little things. He may ask you to give Him something, or entrust something to Him, or give up something for His sake. It will be subtle and seemingly minor, but it always builds to bigger things. The Lord will not be satisfied with the tiniest part of your heart - He wants your whole being! While this seems daunting at times, it is something that we have the ability to work up to. God does not expect us to be saints at the heights of holiness at the beginning of our journey, thank goodness for that! He gives us time to loosen our stony hearts, clinging to our hard ways to replace it with the flesh that is true humanity. Over time, we can become more confident as Mary would have been, saying yes to the Lord and giving Him everything.

Image: The Presentation of the Virgin in the Temple, Titian. 1534-38. Gallerie dell’ Accademia, Venice.
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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #presentation #mary #joachim #anne #presentationintemple #titian #venice #tradition

As Christians, we know the importance of reading both the Old AND the New Testament to see how God has had a plan throughout all of history bringing us to Himself in salvation. Knowing where we came from helps us to understand and see where we are going. The same goes with art - when we can see the past and the different movements and why they happened we can then understand why art is the way that it is now and where it is going. The evolution of style and the impact of artists and art on culture is so helpful to see how and why art is so important.

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #style #stylistic #analysis #analyze #deepdive #who #what #where #when #why #stylisticanalysis

As Christians, we know the importance of reading both the Old AND the New Testament to see how God has had a plan throughout all of history bringing us to Himself in salvation. Knowing where we came from helps us to understand and see where we are going. The same goes with art - when we can see the past and the different movements and why they happened we can then understand why art is the way that it is now and where it is going. The evolution of style and the impact of artists and art on culture is so helpful to see how and why art is so important.

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #style #stylistic #analysis #analyze #deepdive #who #what #where #when #why #stylisticanalysis

Lord, you are the creator of this universe, of time and of history. May we remember when we look at art that you were present in each moment of history, whether or not it was recognized or seen. When we recognize style, we recognize the work that you are doing in the hands of the artist and the movements of society, culture and the world. Help us to be a positive influence on the world around us that we may create beautiful things and inspire others to create beautiful things for the goodness of the world and for further glorification of you.

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #style #stylistic #analysis #analyze #deepdive #who #what #where #when #why #stylisticanalysis

Lord, you are the creator of this universe, of time and of history. May we remember when we look at art that you were present in each moment of history, whether or not it was recognized or seen. When we recognize style, we recognize the work that you are doing in the hands of the artist and the movements of society, culture and the world. Help us to be a positive influence on the world around us that we may create beautiful things and inspire others to create beautiful things for the goodness of the world and for further glorification of you.

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #style #stylistic #analysis #analyze #deepdive #who #what #where #when #why #stylisticanalysis

The second method that would be helpful in learning how to approach art is stylistic analysis. This method builds off formal analysis to how a specific art piece fits within the wider genre in which it is included. Stylistic analysis assesses the expressive characteristics and importance of the work’ individual formal features. We are able to take the elements like line and color and see how it contributes to the overall message of the artwork. You can compare different artists and movements by highlighting similarities and differences in techniques and styles. We can also understand the context in which it was created such as cultural influences and historical events that shape an artist’s style. It uses both qualitative assessment of formal analysis describing visual features and also quantitative assessment such as patterns and trends in artworks.

As you grow in your art knowledge and seeing different varieties of art, you will start to recognize how different styles are grouped together, are very different, or how they compare to one another. Stylistic analysis is easiest to notice when comparing one artwork to one another, but can definitely be done with a singular piece!

Visit the new post through the link in my bio to read more!
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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #style #stylistic #analysis #analyze #deepdive #who #what #where #when #why #stylisticanalysis

The second method that would be helpful in learning how to approach art is stylistic analysis. This method builds off formal analysis to how a specific art piece fits within the wider genre in which it is included. Stylistic analysis assesses the expressive characteristics and importance of the work’ individual formal features. We are able to take the elements like line and color and see how it contributes to the overall message of the artwork. You can compare different artists and movements by highlighting similarities and differences in techniques and styles. We can also understand the context in which it was created such as cultural influences and historical events that shape an artist’s style. It uses both qualitative assessment of formal analysis describing visual features and also quantitative assessment such as patterns and trends in artworks.

As you grow in your art knowledge and seeing different varieties of art, you will start to recognize how different styles are grouped together, are very different, or how they compare to one another. Stylistic analysis is easiest to notice when comparing one artwork to one another, but can definitely be done with a singular piece!

Visit the new post through the link in my bio to read more!
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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #style #stylistic #analysis #analyze #deepdive #who #what #where #when #why #stylisticanalysis

How can you be more unified with the Lord?

How do you feel looking at this sculpture?

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #bernini #saintteresa #teresaofavila #ecstasy #theinteriorcastle #interior #castle #rome #italy #sculpture

How can you be more unified with the Lord?

How do you feel looking at this sculpture?

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #bernini #saintteresa #teresaofavila #ecstasy #theinteriorcastle #interior #castle #rome #italy #sculpture

Lord, you are calling us to the heights of holiness the same that you called St. Teresa of Avila to. Help us to see these heights as a journey that we can reach in this life. May we never tire of being purified by your love and touched by the arrow of your powerful heart. Conversion is a lifelong journey, may every step closer to you be a victory in heaven. Bring us closer to you this day and every day.

St. Teresa of Avila, pray for us!
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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #bernini #saintteresa #teresaofavila #ecstasy #theinteriorcastle #interior #castle #rome #italy #sculpture

Lord, you are calling us to the heights of holiness the same that you called St. Teresa of Avila to. Help us to see these heights as a journey that we can reach in this life. May we never tire of being purified by your love and touched by the arrow of your powerful heart. Conversion is a lifelong journey, may every step closer to you be a victory in heaven. Bring us closer to you this day and every day.

St. Teresa of Avila, pray for us!
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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #bernini #saintteresa #teresaofavila #ecstasy #theinteriorcastle #interior #castle #rome #italy #sculpture

I will be the first to admit that St. Teresa of Avila scares me a little bit. Just beginning her great work “The Interior Castle” makes me realize my own littleness, brokenness and sinfulness. If God is in the middle of the castle, I feel miles outside of the castle doors, glancing at it from the next mountain over. St. Teresa was such a holy woman and experienced the Lord so intensely that it makes it seem like I will never be like her. But that is her message - that we can all contemplate God and be unified with Him if we allow Him into our lives.

She is passively receiving the immense love and power of Christ in this moment. Her hand and foot is limp, she reclines back with mouth slightly open. She does not seem overwhelmed or in pain, but willingly accepting all the angel is doing unto her. We are all called to be the spouse of Christ, wholly united to Him. The Church is the Bride of Christ and we are able to partake in that spousal relationship. Earthly marriages are but a weak image of the glory of unification, love, purification and perfection that will be achieved in the spousal relationship of us with God. Looking at this sculpture I am encouraged to allow the Lord to more fully act in my life. If I just allow Him to come into my heart, I too can experience His purifying love.

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Image: Ecstasy of St. Teresa, Gian Lorenzo Bernini, 1647-52. Cornaro Chapel, Santa Maria della Vittoria, Rome, Italy.
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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #bernini #saintteresa #teresaofavila #ecstasy #theinteriorcastle #interior #castle #rome #italy #sculpture

I will be the first to admit that St. Teresa of Avila scares me a little bit. Just beginning her great work “The Interior Castle” makes me realize my own littleness, brokenness and sinfulness. If God is in the middle of the castle, I feel miles outside of the castle doors, glancing at it from the next mountain over. St. Teresa was such a holy woman and experienced the Lord so intensely that it makes it seem like I will never be like her. But that is her message - that we can all contemplate God and be unified with Him if we allow Him into our lives.

She is passively receiving the immense love and power of Christ in this moment. Her hand and foot is limp, she reclines back with mouth slightly open. She does not seem overwhelmed or in pain, but willingly accepting all the angel is doing unto her. We are all called to be the spouse of Christ, wholly united to Him. The Church is the Bride of Christ and we are able to partake in that spousal relationship. Earthly marriages are but a weak image of the glory of unification, love, purification and perfection that will be achieved in the spousal relationship of us with God. Looking at this sculpture I am encouraged to allow the Lord to more fully act in my life. If I just allow Him to come into my heart, I too can experience His purifying love.

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Image: Ecstasy of St. Teresa, Gian Lorenzo Bernini, 1647-52. Cornaro Chapel, Santa Maria della Vittoria, Rome, Italy.
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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #bernini #saintteresa #teresaofavila #ecstasy #theinteriorcastle #interior #castle #rome #italy #sculpture

Formal analysis can seem very foreign to us, but we use it everyday. We notice colors, lines, size, style, composition and material in nearly everything that we interact with. It is in these descriptions that we notice the little things in art and give us just another thing to ponder and draw us deeper.

Check out the blog post to dive into this more!
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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #arthistoryforeveryday #formalanalysis #formal #analysis #methodology

Formal analysis can seem very foreign to us, but we use it everyday. We notice colors, lines, size, style, composition and material in nearly everything that we interact with. It is in these descriptions that we notice the little things in art and give us just another thing to ponder and draw us deeper.

Check out the blog post to dive into this more!
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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #arthistoryforeveryday #formalanalysis #formal #analysis #methodology

Lord, you are the Divine Artist the created the entire universe in beauty, order, simplicity and complexity. Please show us how you are in the minor details of everything in our life whether it be in the colors of the sunset or the painting in front of us, the material of the sculpture or the clothes in which we wear. None of your universe was created without thought and intention. Thank you for your thought and love in created everything in order that we may experience your glory and magnificence. May I see myself as a beautiful, intent filled creature of yours.

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #arthistoryforeveryday #formalanalysis #formal #analysis #methodology

Lord, you are the Divine Artist the created the entire universe in beauty, order, simplicity and complexity. Please show us how you are in the minor details of everything in our life whether it be in the colors of the sunset or the painting in front of us, the material of the sculpture or the clothes in which we wear. None of your universe was created without thought and intention. Thank you for your thought and love in created everything in order that we may experience your glory and magnificence. May I see myself as a beautiful, intent filled creature of yours.

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#beauty #sacredart #art #adportacaeli #catholic #catholiclifestyle #prayer #faith #truegoodandbeautiful #catholicart #catholicconvert #arthistory #religious #arthistoryforeveryday #formalanalysis #formal #analysis #methodology

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