The renowned artist Timothy Schmalz recently unveiled a miniature sculpture of St. Francis of Assisi at the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross in honor of the 10th anniversary of the encyclical Laudato Si’ and the 800 years of the Canticle of the Creatures.
This special presentation took place following an interview titled “The Way of Beauty”, which featured Cardinal Michael F. Czerny, S.J. who blessed the sculpture received by the university’s rector, Fr. Fernando Puig.
The sculpture of St. Francis, known for his connection to animals, ecology, and peace, is part of a series created by Schmalz to reflect on Laudato Si’, the encyclical letter by Pope Francis concerning the care of our Common Home.
Art as a bridge to spirituality
During the interview at the XIV Professional Seminar for Church Communication Offices, Schmalz and Czerny explored how art can serve as a powerful tool to connect with people on a spiritual level, transcending cultural and emotional barriers, and leaving a lasting impact on the faithful.
Engaged in a deep conversation facilitated by Juan della Torre, founder of La Machi Communication for Good Causes, Schmalz and Czerny delved into the transformative role of art in conveying the message of the Gospel.
The interview also touched on the relationship between beauty and suffering from a Christian perspective, with Czerny emphasizing the power of beauty and art to elevate us to a spiritual realm where prayer becomes a profound experience.
Schmalz, known for her work “Angels Unawares,”, highlighted the transformative capacity of art and expressed her belief in the ability of art to change the world.
One of her iconic sculptures, Let the Oppressed Go Free, depicts the inspiring story of St. Josephine Bakhita, symbolizing freedom and faith.
The creative process as a path to divine inspiration
Schmalz shared insights into her creative process, emphasizing the organic evolution of her works and how they often reveal new ideas during the creation process.
She also discussed her upcoming project, a sculpture of Carlo Acutis, highlighting the unexpected details that emerged through contemplation and effort.
Communication in the Church and its evangelizing horizon
The XIV Seminar focused on the evangelizing role of communication in the Church, bringing together communicators to explore this essential aspect of Church communication.
Organized by the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross, the event was supported by various organizations including EWTN, Rome Reports, ISCOM, The Pontifical Mission Societies USA, and La Machi Comunicación para Buenas Causas.
Jubilee of Communication, 2025
The event coincided with the start of the Jubilee of the World of Communication, part of the Great Jubilee 2025 called by Pope Francis to emphasize the importance of communication in dialogue, understanding, and evangelization.
The Catholic Union of Informers and Journalists of Spain and La Machi Comunicación para Buenas Causas will participate in the Jubilee, reflecting on the vital role of communication in human and social life.
This significant event, themed “Communicating hope,” will gather journalists worldwide and be graced by the presence of Pope Francis.
