Collection: Tower of Strength

ARTIST: Br. Mickey McGrath, OSFS

ARTWORK NARRATIVE:

The title of this drawing, comes from Psalm 61:
“You are my refuge - a tower of strength against the foe.”

Beneath the crucifix on Christ’s right stand Mary, John, and Mary Magdalene, united in their grief and tragedy. In their loving embraces, they form a kind of tower of strength for each other. Blood flows from the heart of Christ, pouring out on suffering humanity as a sign of mercy and reconciliation.

On the right we see the Pentagon and the twin towers of the World Trade Center engulfed in smoke and flame. Above them, angels from around the world cry in anguish. A rainbow, seen here rising out of the dust and ashes on the right side, is a traditional symbol of hope and rebirth ever since the story of Noah who saw a rainbow after the world was destroyed by flood. It brings the promise of healing and reconciliation.

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PSALM 61

1 For the leader; with stringed instruments. Of David.

Hear my cry, O God, listen to my prayer!

2 From the brink of Sheol I call; my heart grows faint. Raise me up, set me on a rock,

for you are my refuge, a tower of strength against the foe.

Then I will ever dwell in your tent, take refuge in the shelter of your wings. Selah

3 O God, when you accept my vows and hear the plea of those who revere your name in prayer:

"Add to the days of the king's life; may his years be many generations;

May he reign before God forever; may your love and fidelity preserve him"--

4 Then I will sing your name forever, fulfill my vows day after day.