A picture paints a thousand words
The National Gallery London
In November and December Fr Timothy took two groups to the National Gallery in London, for spiritual preparation of Advent and Christmas through Selected art. Here is Helena’s account of the visit. “On Saturday 29 November I joined Fr Timothy together with a group of parishioners to spend a couple of hours at the National Gallery in London to view religious paintings in preparation for Advent. I thought Father’s idea was truly inspiring as did we all! What a wonderful venue to visit either for the first time or revisit after a long time. A beautiful building easily accessed by public transport near Trafalgar Square full of incredible paintings, both religious and secular, with entrance free.
Father chose a number of specific paintings which we viewed in different galleries . It felt like a gentle pilgrimage as Father led us to each painting introducing us to its theological themes and read appropriate biblical verses. I felt cocooned in our group while all around the public hustled and bustled. I don’t wish to embarrass Father but I loved how Father wore his priestly black long vestment which was a silent witness to all while travelling on the underground or during the gallery tour. I loved getting to know the parishioners in the group and listening how a painting affected them, whether it was a particular depiction of Christ or the facial expression of St Peter or Abraham or the reasons why certain animals were added to paintings (e.g. the peacock. Google for your homework it’s fascinating!)
It was fitting how Father both started and finished his tour at the same painting, ending with a prayer, as it felt like a special journey. A few days after the tour I attended a carol concert in the Albert Hall and listened to a celebrity reading an account of Joseph being visited in a dream by the angel advising Joseph not to divorce Mary on account of her being with Child. My thoughts took me immediately to Father’s tour and us standing in front of a painting depicting this scene. What a wonderful moment. I highly recommend a visit to the National Gallery either on your own or on a future parish visit with Father, as your Faith will be deepened by the experience.”