Continued … Pennsylvania artist Neilson Carlin was selected by the organizers of the 2015 Philadelphia World Meeting of Families Congress to create a portrait of the Holy Family to serve as the icon for the event. His four-by-five-foot oil on canvas painting depicts Jesus as a toddler, Mary, Joseph, St. Ann and St. Joachim. The piece was designed to focus the viewer on Christ in the center, and to remind us of the necessity of his role as the focal point of our lives. From front to back, the figures have been intentionally layered to indicate the proximity of their relationship to Christ. In the extreme foreground, practically walking out of the canvas, stands the infant, his eyes fixed firmly on the viewer, extending a sign of blessing. Next to him, the Blessed Mother, with a gaze slightly beyond her son as she looks toward his passion, fully aware of the trial yet to begin for her family for the sake of all families. Just behind stands St. Joseph, gently resting a loving and protective hand on his wife; his hand completes the chain of connection that begins with Christ’s hand, which rests gently on his mother’s. Behind all stand Mary’s mother and father, SS. Ann and Joachim. They, along with Mary and Joseph, all turn in the direction of Christ. With pensive faces, their joy comes not from the removal of suffering with the coming of Our Lord, but from a firm and steadying reliance on Christ as their morning star, guiding them through the storms of life. The painting was unveiled on Sept., 7, 2014 by Archbishop Chaput in the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul where it will be displayed through the conclusion of the World Meeting of Families. The Archbishop said “The iconic image will inspire everyone as we continue to prepare for the 2015 World Meeting of Families. I’m hopeful that image can help all of us to examine our minds and hearts and deepen our relationships with God and our families in meaningful ways.” At the unveiling Artist Carlin said “I am both honored and humbled by the opportunity to use my talents to serve the Church, my fellow Catholics and this global event, which hopefully will welcome Pope Francis., Inspired by the theme of ‘Love is our mission,’ it is my sincerest hope that this image will be a source of prayer and contemplation that draws people of all faiths in and ultimately makes them feel closer and more connected to their own families.” To be continued … References:
nbcphiladelphia.com, NBC10.com, WorldMeeting2015.org, Philly.com