Welcome to a celebration of creativity and culture! The Cardinal Prefect of the Dicastery for Culture and Education recently delivered a powerful message from Pope Francis during the Mass for the Jubilee of Artists and the World of Culture. In his homily, he emphasized the crucial role that artists play in our society.
Artists are not just creators of beauty; they are also truth-seekers and question-askers. They have the unique ability to reveal the hidden truths and goodness within history and to give voice to the voiceless. As we navigate through difficult times, artists help us ponder life’s deeper meanings and existential questions.
Raising existential questions
Amidst financial and social crises, Pope Francis highlighted the spiritual crisis of our time. Artists are essential in helping us explore questions about our purpose and direction in life. Are we mere wanderers, or do we have a meaningful journey ahead? Artists guide us towards finding our way in a confusing world.
Art and discernment
Art also serves as a tool for discernment between good and evil. Artists have a keen sensitivity to these distinctions and are tasked with explaining them to us. Through their work, they help us differentiate between deceptive temptations and authentic calls to humanity.
The Beatitudes: A ‘revolution of perspective’
Finally, Pope Francis emphasized the revolutionary perspective found in the Beatitudes. By proclaiming blessings upon the marginalized and persecuted, Jesus challenges us to rethink our values and priorities. Artists play a crucial role in this revolution by encouraging us to constantly search, question, and take risks in our pursuit of truth and beauty.
As we honor the Jubilee of Artists and the World of Culture, let us embrace the transformative power of art and creativity. Together, let us embark on a journey of self-discovery and enlightenment, guided by the profound insights shared by Pope Francis and the Cardinal Prefect.
Written by Joseph Tulloch
