Women’s Giving Circle program focuses on ‘Art, Beauty and the Catholic Faith’

More than 50 members of the Women’s Giving Circle attended the group’s annual Sip & Learn event where they heard Sally Phelps Smith speak on “Art, Beauty and the Catholic Faith.” The program was hosted by Phelps Smith and her husband Ted on Oct. 8 at their home.

An art historian, Phelps Smith drew on wisdom from theologians such as St. Augustine, Gregory the Great and Pope St. John Paul II.

“Art began with God himself,” she said. “Just as he is complete truth and complete love, he is also perfect beauty. As creator of all things visible and invisible, God is the ultimate artist.”

She continued, pointing out, that since we are made in the image and likeness of God, we, too, are called to be co-creators on earth with the guidance and help of God.

Phelps Smith illustrated her presentation with photos of different forms of visual art from around the world, including icons of Jesus as the Good Shepherd, Nativity scene paintings from the 15th century and Veronica’s veil, which shows the face of Jesus after she wiped the blood from his during his struggle toward Calvary.

She noted, too, the symbolism of flowers and nature in paintings, such as flattened carnations symbolizing the nails in the cross, and wheat symbolizing both the Eucharist and Bethlehem, which means “house of bread.”

Art can be used “as a means to evangelize and bring people closer to God,” Phelps Smith said.

She concluded the presentation by encouraging the Women’s Giving Circle members to make efforts to share movies, books and music with their children, family and friends. Taking children on art museum tours is also a great way to bring beauty into their lives, she said.

And most importantly, she noted, religious art is meant to draw us into prayer and deeper union with God.

The Women’s Giving Circle is an initiative of the Catholic Community Foundation that brings women together in faith, fellowship and philanthropy. Through shared experiences, meaningful connections and collective giving, members support organizations and ministries making a difference throughout Northeast Ohio. Group organizers said members can gain a deeper understanding of issues facing various communities, connect with women who care about making an impact, combine resources, talents and interests for the greater good, give in purposeful and strategic ways and have some fun along the way.  

Women interested in learning more or becoming a member can learn more here or contact Mary Lou Ozimek, at mozimek@catholiccommunity.org or 216-696-6525, Ext. 4070 for additional information.