Great Art and Spiritual Formation

How can the visual arts serve as a catalyst for spiritual formation? By looking together at classic Christian art, we will see how focused experience of the visual arts can deepen reflection on Scripture. The concepts discussed here can be applied for individual use or for a class or retreat. We will look at great works of art and learn how different artists have depicted Biblical themes over the centuries.

The Rev. Mary Amendolia Gardner is a Spiritual Director with Coracle. Previously Mary served at The Falls Church Anglican (TFCA) for five years as a Pastoral Associate. While at TFCA she worked with immigrants and asylum seekers in Outreach, provided pastoral care for congregants and served as Pastoral Associate for Evangelism. She trained for ministry at Wycliffe Hall in Oxford, England, the Oxford Centre for Christian Apologetics and Heythrop College, University of London. Mary earned an MA in Christian Spirituality with a focus on the visual arts and spiritual transformation and she also holds a BA in Art History. Mary loves to help others discover the good news of Jesus and introducing people to the visual arts through museum tours. She speaks at retreats, enjoys international travel, learning about other cultures and kayaking. She and her husband John are active in missions with Restoration Anglican.