Vatican Museums. And the Word became Flesh #6

“The depiction of Jesus’ birth is itself a simple and joyful proclamation of the mystery of the Incarnation of the Son of God.” With these few words, Pope Francis captures the task that sacred art is called to do – to reveal the truth of the Good News through beauty. Each day of the Christmas Octave, the Vatican Museums and Vatican News will offer a masterpiece from the papal collections, accompanied by a reflection from the Popes.

Domenico Bigordi known as Domenico Ghirlandaio (Florence 1449 - 1494) and school, Adoration of the Child; ca. 1492; tempera and gold on wood; 45 x 42 cm (detail); © Musei Vaticani

“When we celebrate the Eucharist. we find ourselves in Bethlehem, in the ‘house of bread’. Christ gives himself to us and, in doing so, gives us his peace. He gives it to us so that we can carry the light of peace within and give it to others. He gives it to us so that we can become peacemakers and builders of peace in the world. And so we pray: Lord, fulfil your promise! Where there is conflict, give birth to peace! Where there is hatred, make love spring up! Where darkness prevails, let light shine! Make us heralds of your peace!”

Pope Benedict XVI – Christmas Midnight Mass Homily, 2005

Series Editor: Paolo Ondarza

#BeautyThatUnites
instagram: @vaticanmuseums @vaticannews
facebook: @vaticannews

Thank you for reading our article. You can keep up-to-date by subscribing to our daily newsletter. Just click here