"What better way to encounter Christ this Lenten season than through the eyes of His Mother? I previously was not familiar with the 7 Sorrows Devotion, but since attending this retreat, I've enjoyed incorporating the meditations into my prayer time, contemplating Mary's maternal heart and how it always points us to her Son." -retreat attendee

Fr. Tom Czeck, OFM Conv. became interested in the devotion of the Seven Sorrows when he arrived at the National Shrine of Saint Maximilian Kolbe at Marytown two years ago. In addition to perpetual adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, the chapel there holds many beautiful works of sacred art, including a series of paintings depicting the seven sorrows. This prompted him to learn more and take up the devotion.

On Friday, November 22, artist-in-residence Sarah Crow gave a talk on her recently completed reproduction of Caravaggio's The Supper at Emmaus (1601). She described her methods of using historical materials and methods to match the tone and beauty of the original work as closely as possible.

She also explained some of the subtle theological symbols hidden in plain sight in the painting, which draw from existing iconography in creative and surprising ways. 

Finally, Sarah reflected on the spiritual aspects of spending time with the Baroque master through one of his most famous works, emphasizing his surprising tenderness in his treatment of the subject matter.

You can read a full account on her blog here. 

On October 18, St. Gregory's Hall co-hosted a special Mass for artists was celebrated on the Feast of Saint Luke, patron saint of painters.

The Mass was celebrated by Bishop Mark Bartosic and was organized with Chicago Catholic Artists. 

READ MORE ABOUT THE EVENT HERE

​“The musical tradition of the universal Church is a treasure of inestimable value, greater even than that of any other art.”
​– Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1156

On December 17, for the second year in a row, we held our unique service, Convivium Marianum: A Prayerful Contemplation on the Life of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Scripture and Song.

The evening included readings from scripture, prayers from the divine office of Marian feasts throughout the year, and an exhortation by Bishop Mark Bartosic, Auxiliary Bishop of Chicago and member of the St. Gregory's Hall board of advisors.

The musical program included beautiful works of sacred music spanning centuries and cultures, including works by Hans Leo Hassler, Claudio Monteverdi, anonymous English hymn "There is no Rose," and original compositions by composer-in-residence and choirmaster Kevin Allen.

Learn more about Convivium Marianum 2024!