The altar of our church faces east, and during the germination phase of this inspiration I noticed how much I like the way the morning light fills up the windows with brightness and vivid color. This effect dims the crucifix some, and obscures the image of our Lord. It struck me that this effect added power to the meditation in a less-is-more sort of way, and so that is the path I took with this piece. Naturally, this is not the only way to view or appreciate this subject, but it is the one that created a meaningful response in me, and the one I wanted to do "first."

This was a winter time project for me, to be able to paint from life while our great outdoors are a bit chilly. I worked on it in person over 2 winters, and then completed it in my studio with its better lighting, for the fine-tuning of the subtleties in the colors of the back wall. The finished version is the 4th attempt to get that part of the painting right. For the painter, it is a frequent and quiet marvel how we never seem to be able to foresee what will go utterly smoothly, and what might take several tries.

I am so very grateful to our Monsignor and our church's team, for trusting me and my drop-cloth, and for allowing me to have the time in our sanctuary to paint this meditation. It really was a blessing to spend so many quiet hours there, and share a little time with visitors. A handful of Graces did wind up coming my way, which I'm very grateful for, and one small miracle did occur ... which can be shared at another time.