[Salvation]

Catholic Culture

The Station today is at St. Paul outside-the-walls. On this day the catechumens were subjected to a new examination and, if approved, were registered for Baptism. The beginning of the four Gospels was read to them, and the Creed and the Our Father was "given," or explained to them. Today's Mass has a decided Baptismal character. The joys of this day were anticipated on Laetare Sunday.

[Salvation]

Interior and other photos of St. Paul Outside the Walls

God of love, bring us back to you. Send your Spirit to make us strong in faith and active in good works. Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen" (Collect for today). San Paolo Fuori le Mura. One of the four major basilicas, St. Paul's is the second largest church in Rome, second only to St. Peter's. Both were consecrated on 18 November 326. Under the altar is the body of Saint Paul. This church is also famous for its mosaic medallions of all the Popes. Throughout these 29 days, I've shared some incredible art in these churches. It is important to remember that art in the churches is never for its own sake but to evangelize, catechize, and otherwise assist the people of God on their journey. This is the traditional place where for the first scrutiny of the catechumens. They would approach the church from the courtyard (see photo). Continued ....next page >

Day XXIX. Wednesday, Week IV. continued.... Saint Paul stands as guardian. The inscription says "Praedictori Veritatis, Doctori Gentium", "To the Preacher of Truth, Teacher of the Peoples". Behind him is Christ enthroned in a rainbow, blessing us, flanked by Saints Peter and Paul. Below is the Lamb of God seated on a mound from which flow the four rivers of Paradise. The 12 sheep (apostles) approach from Bethlehem and Jerusalem. Below are the prophets Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Daniel. As you approach the doors, you remember that Christ is the door to salvation. Indeed these are the doors of salvation, which tell the stories of Peter and Paul (see photo). Once inside, they watch the people recommit themselves through Christ as they approach the Holy Water font (Galli, 1860). Even the Holy Water font has a story to tell. The devil is about to pounce on the little girl but she, on her tippy toes with full faith, reaches up to the holy waters unseen, ... and the devil shirks in fear! Continued ....more photos....next page >

continued.... Photo:   As you approach the doors, you remember that Christ is the door to salvation.  Indeed these are the doors of salvation, which tell the stories of Peter and Paul (see photo).