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Angels Unawares

Having arrived a little early in Rome, I had a chance to meander around the Vatican for a day before the rest of the group arrived. There is so much to impress but what caught my eye was the sculpture Angels Unawares by our own Canadian Timothy Schmaltz. Schmaltz's Homeless Jesus lives outside the front doors of the Christie Mansion which houses Regis St. Michael's so the connection to this artist is close to home. The bronze sculpture was commissioned by Pope Francis in 2019 for World Migrant and Refugee Day. It depicts people traveling from a variety of countries and eras but all on the same boat with an angel in their midst. The title of the statue refers to the verse in Hebrews 13:2: "Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares." (RSV) It is a powerful reminder to listen closely to those who come from away, those who are different in culture, language and religion because it is precisely there that we will encounter insights and wisdom to enrich us. I had known the sculpture was here in Rome but was surprised to find it having such prominence. It felt Providential, indeed, to be reminded of the importance of encounter and receptivity to the voice of the other as we begin our studies in ecumenical and interreligious dialogue.

Posted by Christine Way Skinner






  

Comments

  1. MelindaJune 29, 2023 at 8:43 AM

    Thanks for sharing. The statue is truly striking as it sits in its own area of St. Peter’s. The artist has done a marvellous job of capturing the expressions of those traveling. As many here are on a pilgrimage, it’s a clear reminder of our humanity and need of compassion for one another.

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