Keeping Christ in Christmas

Members of Father Allan Hall Council #8604

Have you noticed the new sign near the front entrance to the church?  It replaces an older version of “Keep Christ in Christmas”.  Members of St. Charles Knights of Columbus (Father Allan Hall Council #8604) agreed that the  previous sign was too weathered to repair so a new sign was required.  After reviewing several renditions of the nativity scene, they agreed to use “In The Hands of the Father” by American artist Roger Loveless.  The sign was constructed by Jean Aquin of Country Signs in Elie, Manitoba.  Thanks to Ron Chase and Abe Froese for construction of  the frame and installation.

Below is a commentary written by the artist Roger Loveless describing his inspiration for the painting.

In The Hands of the Father

During quiet times when I think of the Savior’s birth, I am truly humbled by its sacred nature and by the events that occurred both before and after.  I think of Mary holding the infant surrounded by the wise men and shepherds  that came from far away to honour and pay respect.

But when I think of Joseph, I think of a young man who exercised great faith in a difficult situation prior to the birth, I think of a man who loved Mary very much and was more concerned with her needs  than that of his own.

I chose to portray Joseph taking a turn nurturing the newborn infant while Mary was able to get some much needed rest.  The only earthly witnesses to this kindness are the animals found in the manger, who seem to sense the divine nature of his goodness.

“In the Hands of theFather” reflects the great responsibility that Joseph felt, but at the same time was able to draw strength from being in the hands of someone much greater than his own.