SACRED ART IN 100 WORDS

The Return of the Prodigal Son
Rembrandt
1663 – 1669
State Hermitage Museum

The scene is plunged into cellar-like darkness. The Father lays his hands upon the shoulders of his shaven, penitent son – dressed in threadbare garments. His half-closed eyes and gentle gestures command silence. The act of forgiving becomes a sacramental blessing. Notice the feet of the younger son. Cracked, they bear with one broken shoe and tell stories of travels, hardships, and defeat. As one lost son leans into his father’s breast, his heart finds a surgeon and his soul a friend. The Father’s Heart overflows with love while Heaven rejoices at this homecoming!

– Archdiocesan Heritage Museum