By Loci B. Lenar
A few of the photographs in this article were first noted in my blog during February of 2011.
However, through contemplative prayer, I believe it's time to release the photos on this site with my thoughts. Foremost, I wish to convey that everything that's posted in this article and on our site is intended to help in bringing people back to God.
Therefore, open your heart to God's love and receive his divine gifts that will certainly change your life for the better.
My spiritual journey of faith includes glorifying God through prayer and photography. Our Lord guides me to sacred places where the Holy Spirit inspires me to help others connect with God's grace and blessing.
While traveling through the town of Madison on October 9, 2010, I had an opportunity to visit St. Vincent Martyr Catholic Church.
My normal routine when I stop at any church is to go inside and say some prayers. I usually have my camera on hand and snap some photographs of statues and stained glass windows.
If you're ever in Morris County, by all means do visit this beautiful church, you will be pleased by its divine interior. St. Vincent is located on 26 Green Village Road, Madison, New Jersey.
On this special day, I noticed on the left side of the church in front of the parish rectory, a magnificent bronze statue of Jesus.
I photographed the statue, and remarkably, the image shows sunlight creating a noteworthy reflection on the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The first thought in my mind after viewing the photo was scripture. Jesus said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” - John 8:12
Scripture opens our heart to receive God's blessing and favor especially in times of need.
Jesus also said, “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven." - Matthew 5:14-16
In addition, there is a beautiful statue of the Virgin Mary and infant Jesus inside the church behind the alter.
I photographed the statue and noticed later when examining the images that there is three distinct shadows reflecting on the wall from interior lights.
(To view a larger copy of this image, click here or on the photograph.)
On the right side of the photo there is two shadows of the statue, one of the Virgin Mary and infant Jesus. However, on the left side there is also a reflection of a third image. The shadow on the left appears different. Is the silhouette on the wall a likeness of the statue or perhaps an image of St. Joseph? What is your opinion?
The following responses regarding the photo are published on our Facebook page:
Diana Perez says, it's "An image of St. Joseph."
Jeanie McCarthy Pityinger says, "An image of St. Joseph, the way the shadow appears does not look like the statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary or Infant Jesus, it's shaped different, postured different."
In any event, I believe some of these photos can be construed as subtle signs from God.
Our Lord is calling us to pray for our families. Our Lord is calling everyone to live in harmony as a Holy Family with peace and unity here on earth. Our goal in our spiritual journey of faith is to be part of God's Kingdom with Jesus, Mary, and Joseph.
Pray daily for Our Lord's blessing and assistance. Please use daily Devotional Prayers which can be found on our site.
St. Vincent Martyr Catholic Church Mass Schedule
Saturday: 5:00 p.m.
Sunday: 7:15, 9:00, 10:30 a.m., 12:00 Noon, 5:00 p.m. in Spanish
(July & August: 7:15, 9:15, 11:15 a.m.)
Monday through Saturday: 8:30 a.m. and 12:10 p.m. (No 12:10 mass during July and August)
Holy Days of Obligation: 6:30, 8:30 a.m., 12:10, 7:00 p.m. (No 12:10 p.m. mass in August)
In need of prayer? Send requests to [email protected]
Email: [email protected]
© 2012 Loci B. Lenar