A Reminder To "Be Welcoming"

St. Mary of the Lake/Our Lady of Lourdes unveiled a new sculpture in front of the church at 4220 North Sheridan earlier this month.

It's called "Be Welcoming" and depicts a stranger with a bag of belongings on his back, extending his hand, as seen from the side closest to the street. On the other side, the stranger is revealed to be an angel. The sculpture depicts the Bible verse Hebrews 13:2, "Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares."

The sculpture is by noted Canadian artist Timothy Paul Schmalz, whose work is displayed internationally, including at the Vatican. He is best known for "Homeless Jesus," a provocative sculpture seen in many places around the world. He says that "Be Welcoming" was inspired by the plight of refugees and migrants in today's world.

The sculpture was donated to the parish by long-time parishioner Mark Losher and installed by the  men of Seguidores de Cristo (Followers of Christ) ministry.

St. Mary's invites all to "take time to view, reflect on, pray and sit with this interactive sculpture and how you can Be Welcoming to all those whom you encounter in this world!"