I've never been to Sydney, Australia, but apparently St Mary’s Roman Catholic Cathedral is a landmark in the city which attracts thousands of tourists every year. The website for the church describes it as " a beacon of hope" and at this time of year the claim is literal. I am fascinated by this display of traditional "Madonna and Child images on the face of the cathedral. This makes the best of a historic structure and paintings to make a statement to the city, including the business district around it.
I have served congregations which bemoan shifting demographics and the failure of communities to recognize just how wonderful they are. Yet they were reluctant to do anything bold in terms of visual welcome. And some in these congregations were critical if we did anything to raise our profile with engagement in the wider community.
Churches are not meant to be castles with moats and drawbridges. Even the most traditional buildings can be invitational and welcoming, challenging the senses boldly and with creativity.
What do you think of this visual display?
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