Mary at the Foot of the Cross: Explaining the Archdiocese’s New Icon

Mary at the Foot of the Cross

Denver Catholic: recently shared more about the creation of this sacred artwork, which has already received much positive feedback from parishioners here at Our Lady of the Mountains:

“The entire purpose of sacred art is to help us pray, pray together and center our thoughts on the transcendent truths of our faith,” said Elizabeth Zelasko. “I had many hours to sit with the Virgin Mary at the foot of the Cross while I was painting. I thought about the magnitude of that moment, her Immaculate Heart being pierced with a sword, the evil one losing, and her great love for us and for our Archdiocese. I prayed for all of you while I worked. May this image be a blessing for you.”

The new icon is to serve as a focal point of the Archdiocese’s preparation for the monumental Jubilee, entrusting our local Church and our own hearts to Mary, the Mother of God and our mother.

“As Mary was present with Jesus throughout his passion, she will guide us in meditating upon these mysteries and participating in Jesus’ salvific mission on the cross,” Archbishop Samuel J. Aquila wrote in his Lenten Pastoral Note, “Standing with Mary at the Foot of the Cross,” which announced the new icon and accompanying nine-year novena.

“For centuries, icons have communicated the richness and beauty of the Church’s story,” he continued. “They contain much symbolism and assist us in praying with and entering more deeply into the mysteries of Jesus’ life. Our icon, as well, is rich in beauty and symbolism. I am grateful to Elizabeth Zelasko, an artist of our archdiocese, for sharing her gifts in writing the icon and explaining its unique features.

“My beloved brothers and sisters in Christ, I pray that we invoke Mary daily this Lent and throughout these years, preparing for the Jubilee in 2033,” the archbishop concluded.