Dear Friends,
During the month of July we shall have a series of Sunday Theology Talks on Art and Spirituality.
The first two talks will be dedicated to one of the greatest and probably most misunderstood of the world masterpieces, Michelangelo’s Last Judgment. Many of you have no doubt contemplated it on a visit to the Sistine Chapel in Rome.
Michelangelo’s Last Judgment presents a vision of Christ as omnipotent judge. Inspired by classical ideals, Christ appears youthful, nude, and commanding, the axis around which the saved ascend and the damned fall. The fresco’s raw physicality and emotional intensity scandalized many, leading to censorship. Critics accused Michelangelo of elevating art above reverence. Yet the work’s drama powerfully evokes the terrifying grandeur of final judgment. Christ’s impassive face and commanding gesture embody divine justice beyond human sentiment, challenging viewers to consider their place in eternity under the gaze of a perfect, impartial judge.
The talk will take place in person in the fifth floor of the Parish House at 10 am and for those who cannot attend in person the talk will be available via livestream.
See you on Sunday!
All blessings,
Fr. Luigi Gioia
Theologian In Residence
