Signs, Wonders, and Miracles

Commentary by the Artist: "Sunday April 19, 2009, celebrated by Christians worldwide, is the Feast Day of Divine Mercy; which is not always celebrated at the Sunday Mass in all churches here in London, UK; surprisingly as the venerated image of Jesus is one described by Christ to a 20th century Saint Faustina of Poland (1905-1938). The visions, miracles and messages she received from Christ are therefore quite recent; and therefore, I feel, maybe more accessible to contemporary society. This afternoon, however, I have been deeply moved and overwhelmed to attend a church devoted to a beautiful celebration of this Feast Day: St Ignatius Catholic Church in South Tottenham, N. London. Fr Luke who lead the 2-hour Mass passionately and sensitively reached out to all the hearts of the overflowing congregation with his message of the endless Mercy of Jesus Christ available to those who have faith...Trust in Jesus. He talked about the importance of forgiveness; including that of ourselves. I was at times throughout tearfully overwhelmed; especially as a candlelit procession, in which the Blessed Divine Mercy Image was carried, passed by. It seemed that 'the whole word' was there too- every race, every age - in peaceful union; which was very special. I was not sure that I would have the energy to make a new interpretation of the Divine Mercy of Jesus, on returning home - but felt too inspired to give in to tiredness. My art soon energizes me. This drawing, made in pastels, from my heart and soul, was created according to the wishes and instructions of Jesus, given to Saint Faustina in one of His many visitations to her. He told her to have painted an image, as He appeared to her, with his hand held up in blessing, one hand on his breast, from which flowed two rays: the pale symbolised the water, which cleanses and purifies the soul. The red represented the blood which gives new life to the soul. Jesus said " These rays will shield the soul before the justice of my Father..." Feast Day of Divine Mercy. April 19, 2009 Pastel on paper, 23 x 17in Copyright 2009 Stephen B. Whatley

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