The Trellis

Inside the Vatican Palace

We were granted a special visit inside the Vatican Palace yesterday to visit one of the Pope's private chapels...unfortunately he wasn't there with us, BUT just seeing the chapel was moving in itself.
The Redemptoris Mater Chapel, commissioned by John Paul II, which you can see from the link (http://www.vatican.va/redemptoris_mater/index_en.htm) is awe-inspiring and breathtaking! I was told it was incredibly striking, but no words could really express the power of this chapel. Aside from having the special priviledge to walk through the hallowed halls of our pontiff, walking into the chapel, who's brilliant colors, and dramatic imagery were so masterfully displayed, I was moved to tears. It took me a few minutes to regain my composure....Once I did, looking around at all of the different scenes--absorbing the symbolism, the drama, the TRUTH, GOODNESS & BEAUTY!!!! I was reaffirmed in my convictions as an artist.

This is the kind of work that inspires, unifies, and moves all of humanity, and the world is a much fuller place because of its existence!

We were given the history of the chapel, and description of the images by a Jesuit priest who lives with Fr. Marko Rupnik, S.J., the artist who created the chapel, and afterwards we explored for a little while the little details of it. Other interesting portions were the crucifix and ambo--all in keeping with the style of the chapel, but with their own unique character and detail.

We sang a song to Mary "Totus Tuus Maria", a song we're all very much in love with...I'll have to sing it for you when I get back. And then we left. The culminating part being when Teresa, Therese and I were saluted by the Swiss Guards as we exited the palace gates.

It's already Gaudete Sunday...only two weeks left till Christmas...May the rest of this Advent season be a time for you to truly contemplate the joy of our Savior's birth, his humility and poverty, and may our union with him through our Mama Mary help us all to realize our true call as Christians to love and serve each other through our own gifts and talents.

Totus Tuus
AMDG

Pace!

posted by Mish @ 10:00