Art, Literature, Poetry and Mariology

Luky;

A twentieth-century American writer of poetry and prose, Cornelia Otis Skinner, appears to have had a craving for a deeper knowledge and understanding of Mary of Nazareth. After a visit to Italy she wrote these poignant lines;

  TO THE SISTINE MADONNA

  Mary, most serenely fair,
  Hear an unbeliever's prayer.
  Nurtured in an austere creed,
  Sweetest Lady, she has need
  Of the solace of thy grace;
  See the tears that stain her face
  As she kneels to beg your love,
  You whom no one told her of.

There is a a belief that human devotion to Mary, when practised neither as an end in itself nor in a bid to replace the worship of Christ, but for the greater good of growing closer to God, can actually serve to enhance spiritual faith and religious fervour.

For centuries the arts have shown the beneficial effects of a healthy devotion to Mary of Nazareth. Art and literature, particularly poetry, might prove casualties if Mariology were to be destroyed, since the Virgin Birth of Christ the Saviour and the role played by the Blessed Mary in the life of Christ have proved to be a source of inspiration for some of the best works produced by generations of painters, sculptors and writers alike.

The majority of great artists have at one time or another during their careers paid homage to the mother of the Redeemer through the medium of sculpture or canvas, while generations of poets have sung the Blessed Mary's praises in print through the centuries. hence not Christians alone but the entire world of art and letters would be the poorer for an end to Marian devotion.

*Picture is of cross stitch art 'Mother of Innocence', done by Rev. Catherine.  Please do not reuse this picture, as the cross stitch art is from a kit. If you wish to make Christian works of art for places of worship such as decorated altar linen, robes & stoles for ministers, you can order and stitch/paint them. The above kit was ordered and received from www.timetosow.com You can also make wonderful cross stitch paintings for framing in your house. They can be used as a focal point for family prayer, or as a quiet reminder of Mary of Nazareth and the beautiful Child, the Prince of Peace, she gifted to humanity through the gracious acceptance of God's request to her.