Adoration of the Magi

Two considerations led me to choose this sculpture acquired during a pilgrimage to the Spanish pilgrimage site of Montserrat.

Our „patrocinium“ (i.e. the saints to whom our chapel is dedicated) is the „Holy Family“. Leopold Kupelwieser’s painting from 1859 can be seen in the apse of our chapel. In our sculpture you find Mary, Joseph and the baby Jesus on the left; to their right are the Magi, who in the course of tradition became three kings, as they are still known today and whose feast we celebrate each year on January 6th.

These three figures in turn – the kings / magi – represent the three continents known at the time of the Holy Family: Europe, Asia and Africa. For this reason, the figures display different skin colourings: white, yellow and black. This is in no way a question of discrimination or prejudice. Quite the opposite! The whole world should feel itself embraced here and no-one need feel left out.

This is perfectly fitting for our pilgrim hostel: our guests come from all over the world. Everyone is welcome here – regardless of origin or identification. For all of us alike are seeking strength and comfort in the holy places of this land.

That is why the sculpture caught my eye in August 2023 on Montserrat.

The sculpture has been with us since then, welcoming each and every pilgrim!