WE ARE CALLED

I’ve always loved the Pieta’, but even more so after reading some of the following commentary by Dr. Anthony Esolen on Bishop Barron’s presentation. The sculpture, of course, depicts the Blessed Mother holding her Son after his death. Mary, our Mother, gave Christ to us by her ‘yes” to God at the Annunciation and the Pieta’ shows her continuing to give Christ to us after his death. Her left hand is extended, giving Jesus to the world; her right hand is pressing him close, but through the veil of her garment, just as the priest shows Christ to us when he lifts the monstrance holding the Blessed Sacrament. In the Pieta’, Mary also represents the Church, as she offers us the Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity of her Son in the Eucharist. Michelangelo completed this incredibly beautiful sculpture when he was only 22 years old. Some feel that it should have a place on the altar because it does show us that what we receive is fully the Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity of her Son. Our Pieta’ is in our chapel where it is quiet and holy. I love being there.

Ginny Smithberg