A £15,000 statue of Jesus Christ, purchased by a parish in the Birmingham Archdiocese, is to be installed at a Catholic church in Walmley.
'Sorrows of Steel', by sculptor Shaun Gagg, is made entirely of nails and will be a focal point for the newly-refurbished Lady Chapel of Holy Cross & St Francis Catholic Church.
A number of people from the parish have been to view the sculpture prior to its installation and the majority of those are in favour of the purchase, the diocese told The Tablet.
“It is perfectly legitimate for a parish which is financially well-run, well-maintained and carries out social outreach projects to use sacred art to further witness to the glory of God and inspire its people,” Deacon Paul O’Connor, Head of Planning for the Archdiocese of Birmingham, said.
“The statue is an inspiration, worthy and fitting for Holy Cross & St Francis,” he added.
Parish priest, Father Neil Bayliss, said: “I thought the sculpture should be in a church where Christians can see it, reflect on it and get inspiration. It is an amazing sight and one which I want many others to share in.
“Art plays a huge role in the church and this was a great opportunity for us to add something extra special to the redevelopment of the Lady Chapel,” he said.
It is hoped Sorrows of Steel will be installed before Christmas.
PICTURE: Sorrows of Steel by Shaun Gagg ©Archdiocese of Birmingham
Loading ...
