The Vatican has unveiled a new statue by Timothy Schmalz titled 'Be Welcoming' in St. Peter's Square. The sculpture depicts a man who appears to be homeless, with the other side of the sculpture transforming the man into an angel. The statue is meant to inspire people to open their hearts to the poor and is a visual interpretation of a verse from the Letter to the Hebrews. The unveiling was attended by Pope Francis, who has emphasized the importance of hospitality and inclusion.
3 months ago
The Vatican has unveiled "Be Welcoming," a new statue by Canadian artist Timothy Schmalz, in St. Peter's Square 1 3. The bronze sculpture aims to inspire people to open their hearts to the poor 1 3.
The statue depicts a seated figure resembling a homeless person with a backpack and stick 1 3. A unique feature is the transformation of the figure into an angel when viewed from the opposite side, with the backpack becoming wings 1 3. The statue is designed to be interactive, inviting viewers to sit beside it 1 3.
Timothy Schmalz is known for creating thought-provoking and interactive religious artworks 1 3. "Be Welcoming" is his third installation in the vicinity of St. Peter's Basilica 1. His previous works in the area include "Homeless Jesus" and "Angels Unawares" 1 3. "Angels Unawares" depicts 140 migrants on a boat, also conveying a message of welcoming 1 3.
The statue is a "visual interpretation" of Hebrews 13:2: "Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some have unknowingly entertained angels" 1 3. The Vatican's Dicastery for the Service of Charity hopes the statue will encourage people to see the humanity in others 1 3. They emphasize that assisting the poor is a sacrament and a way to give "a concrete face to the Gospel of love," quoting Pope Francis 1 3.
"Be Welcoming" is located in the colonnade of St. Peter's Square, near the Showers for the Poor and the Mother of Mercy Clinic 1 3. This placement emphasizes the connection between the artwork and practical acts of charity 1. The "Homeless Jesus" statue is located in the square in front of the Vatican’s apostolic charity offices 1. Pope Francis blessed "Angels Unawares" on the World Day of Migrants and Refugees in 2019 1 3.
The Church teaches preferential option for the poor.
The Catholic Church's preferential option for the poor is a central theme in its social doctrine, emphasizing a special concern for the vulnerable and marginalized in society. This principle is rooted in the belief that the Gospel is particularly directed towards those in need, and that society should prioritize their well-being. The Church calls on all people to recognize Christ in the poor and to work towards justice and solidarity with them.
The unveiling of Timothy Schmalz's "Be Welcoming" statue in St. Peter's Square is a tangible expression of the Church's preferential option for the poor. The statue, depicting a figure resembling a homeless person who transforms into an angel when viewed from a different perspective, serves as a powerful reminder of the inherent dignity of the poor and the call to welcome them. By placing the statue near the Showers for the Poor and the Mother of Mercy Clinic, the Vatican underscores the connection between art and concrete acts of charity.
The statue is a "visual interpretation" of Hebrews 13:2: "Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some have unknowingly entertained angels". This verse provides a biblical foundation for the practice of welcoming strangers and recognizing the divine presence in those who are often overlooked. Schmalz's statue invites viewers to reflect on this message and to consider how they can better embody the Gospel value of hospitality in their own lives.
The "Be Welcoming" statue is more than just a work of art; it is a statement of the Church's commitment to the poor and a call to action for all people of goodwill. It serves as a reminder that assisting the poor is a "sacrament and a way to give a concrete face to the Gospel of love," as Pope Francis has stated. The statue's location in St. Peter's Square, near facilities that directly serve the poor, reinforces the idea that welcoming the stranger and caring for the vulnerable are not just abstract ideals, but essential components of living out the Christian faith.