Art From the Heart

In his beautiful letter to the artists of the world, Pope John Paul II pointed to the artist as an image of God the Creator, and showed how the artistic vocation is called to the service of beauty for the common good. He reminded us, in the words of the Council fathers, that “This world in which we live needs beauty in order not to sink into despair. Beauty, like truth, brings joy to the human heart and is that previous fruit which resists the erosion of time which unites generations and enables them to be one in admiration.”

Children from our missions poured their hearts into art works representative of their lives. They painted with love. In their art, they show vividly the place of hope through their faith. Some of their art is heart rending to us as they portray the problems of their country. It can bring forth tears. 

We, too, are called to be artists when through our prayers and our sacrifices we paint a better world for these mission children.  (Click images to enlarge)

In his drawing, Jose has shown Colombia as a woman pleading with her hands clasped in prayers. She prays: "Give us peace. No more violence!" As you look at these drawings, you can see that Jose's companions are also pleading for an end to their country's problems. But there is more. You can also see the hope the Basilian fathers work so hard to bring these children. Look at the little boy whose shadow reflects his guardian angel, and the beautiful angel who brings a ribbon of hope in the colors of the country.

“Tears are beautiful - they are the rainbow of the heart.” - Father Alberto Ferrara,CSB

In Colombia, one way the Basilian Fathers Missions are helping to break the cycle of poverty is the establishment of tallers, or workshops, which encourage the youth to develop skills and eventually to establish their own small businesses.

The beautiful crosses pictured below are made in the workshop in Medellin, Colombia. They are available through http://coloresdelpueblo.org/ (Colores del Pueblo).