St Peter And The Vatican: The Legacy Of The Popes

[Gman]

The wife and I just got back from seeing the St Peter And The Vatican: The Legacy Of The Popes exhibit here in San Antonio. I have never seen such a wonderful exhibit in my life. I feel that if you never have the chance to go to the Vatican then this is the next best thing.

The exhibit started here in San Antonio in October and ends January 8. The exhibit then goes to Milwaukee starting Feb 4 and lasting until May 7. From the Milwaukee Archdiocese website:

The exhibition brings together more than 300 works of art from the permanent collections of the Vatican museums. Historic sculptures, paintings and other objects tell the story of the 264 popes who have headed the Roman Catholic Church, impacted world history and influenced Western civilizations.

Exhibition highlights include a bronze cast of the hand of Pope John Paul II, his pastoral staff and other personal objects. From culture to history to art, explore the impact of the papacy throughout the centuries.

Other historic objects include:

A reproduction of the Tomb of Saint Peter

The Mandylion of Edessa, a third- to fifth-century image on linen considered the oldest known representation of Jesus

The Papa Tiara of Pope Pius IX, the symbol of the papacy, made of silver, gold, pearls and diamonds, emeralds and other precious stones

A 16th-century chalice encrusted with pearls, rock crystal, silver gilt and enamel

The first known map of Australia

A Buddhist Thanka (a thanka is something that unrolls) of embroidered cloth and pearls, presented by the Dalai Lama as a gift to John Paul II.

Personally, by far, the most moving piece was John Paul II's staff. I saw it and immediately recognized it as soon as I turned the corner. I studied it for wear over the years and wear was visible. It was awesome that I was that close to something he always had in his hand when in public.

If you are in the San Antonio area, you have another week to go see the exhibit. If you are in Wisconsin and are semi-close to Milwaukee, this is a must see.

Check out these links:

http://www.vaticansanantonio.com/

http://www.archmil.org/events/ShowEvent.asp?ID=3409