THE CRUCIFIXION AT SAINT PAUL CATHEDRAL

 St. Paul’s Cathedral has on display artist Ray Simon’s work entitled, “The Crucifixion.”  Viewing is open to the public during the Cathedral hours when the Mass and other liturgical events are not being celebrated. This is an opportunity to view the painting in its intended context as a catechetical teaching tool and a contemplative aid to the faithful in their spiritual journey.  The work has already been enthusiastically received by members of the clergy and laity alike.

With the frenzied secular celebration of Halloween overshadowing, even the faithful may tend to forget that the month of November begins with two holy feasts: All Saints and All Souls Days. Ultimately, we are led through Advent to the birth of Jesus Christ.  Scholars and clergy have remarked that this painting can help Christians to refocus on the salvific purpose of the Incarnation and thus it represents the very heart of Christianity.

Father Stubna feels that it is especially appropriate that this painting is on display as the Church begins the Year of Faith.  “Pope Benedict XVI hopes that this Year of Faith will be an invitation for believers to walk through the door of faith which is always open to us.  And in doing so we may reflect more deeply on the saving mysteries of God’s diving grace given to us in and through Jesus Christ and his Church.  This painting helps to bring us closer to these mysteries of faith and hopefully will open the hearts of those who see it to deeper faith.”

When this painting was on display in a previous place of worship, parishioners and non-Catholics alike
came to view the art and read the theological interpretation throughout the week.  Immediately after the weekend Liturgies, parishioners crowded around and waited patiently to view the painting and to read the scroll with the theological interpretation developed by the artist’s friend and co-parishioner, Ray Nakley.

“One of the most provocative, engaging paintings of the crucifixion.  This painting and the message it carries needs to be seen throughout the world.” – Most Reverend George V. Murry, Bishop of Youngstown

“In every generation an artist emerges and paints a significant interpretation of the crucifixion of Christ, the last artist to do so of this magnitude was Dali.” – Dr. Alicia Mack, Diocese of Pittsburgh 

The Crucifixion was painted by nationally-known artist Ray Simon, a graduate of the Art Institute of Pittsburgh.  Ray was recently featured in the Pittsburgh news for his “Legends of the Red Tails” a painting depicting the Tuskegee Airmen that will be the centerpiece of the Tuskegee Memorial Park in Sewickley.  Ray is also known for his patriotic paintings and personalized military tributes that are currently offered at Walgreens.

For more Information contact Father Stubna (412) 621-4951; kstubna@diopitt.org

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