“From the Archives” — Basilica of Saint Mary Ceiling Paintings

Have you ever looked up and really studied the three large paintings on the ceiling of our Basilica of Saint Mary? All are believed to have been painted by the same Alexandria artist, F. S. Shuman, and were installed after the church was restored following a 1929 fire that severely damaged the church roof and ceiling.

The ceiling painting closest to the sanctuary and altar depicts the Holy Trinity. The center painting, the largest of the three works, presents the Assumption of Mary, the Immaculate Conception, patroness of our parish. The third painting, nearest the choir loft, features the death of Saint Joseph. All three paintings are best observed from the east—the sanctuary end of the church. Otherwise, they look upside down!

In the early centuries of Christianity, few people were literate; even fewer had access to Bibles. The magnificent stained-glass windows of the Middle Ages and classic paintings of the Renaissance served as Bibles and prayer books for those who could not read. By closely observing and meditating on such images, pious believers deepened their faith and devotion. A careful look at the paintings on our ceiling shows the artist had a great knowledge of theology and symbolism, which he incorporated in his work. The art in our Basilica also can inspire us. Watch upcoming installments of FROM THE ARCHIVES for more details on each of the three ceiling paintings.