The new mosaics by the Italian artist Antonio Vaccaluzzo dedicated to the prophet Elijah were inaugurated on Mount Nebo on 9 November. This artistic creation is in one of the two secondary chapels, adjacent to the Franciscan shrine, by the architect Osama Hamdan. Dedicated to the prophet Elijah, the chapel on the left now houses these mosaics which tell the story, through evocative images, of some of the most significant moments in the life of the prophet.
The inauguration ceremony was presided over by the Custos of the Holy Land, Fra Francesco Patton, who celebrated Holy Mass and blessed the new mosaics. The concelebrants were the Custodial Vicar, Fra Ibrahim Faltas, the Guardian of the Convent Fra Bernard Thilagarajah and Fra Giovanni Claudio Bottini. The faithful included a number of diplomatic figures, showing the importance of this event at both international and local level.
Elijah, a symbol of peace and unity
The mosaics portray four key episodes in the life of Elijah. The images, full of symbolism, invite reflection and contemplation. The glass-fronted apse of the chapel offers a view of the Holy Land, emphasizing the deep bond between the prophet, the place and Biblical history.
The decision to dedicate the mosaics to the prophet Elijah, a central figure in the three Abrahamic religions, takes on great significance in the light of the conflict which for a year now has enflamed the region. As the Custos emphasized in his homily, Elijah is a symbol of unshakeable faith and defence of justice, an example for all those who are seeking truth and peace.
“The prophet Elijah is a prophet who unites and reconciles, including between the monotheistic religions, which can be traced back to Abraham. Taking inspiration from the prophet, we ask Him to repudiate war as a means of solution of the differences between peoples and nations, that missiles and bombs no longer fall from the sky and that innocent people are no longer killed. We ask for deep reconciliation, not only between the generations, but also between peoples and the believers of all religions, to be able to see a future of peace.”
In this sense, the mosaics launch a universal message of hope and reconciliation, particularly significant at a time in history marked by conflicts and divisions.
To experience beauty
Going into the chapel, we are enveloped by an atmosphere of deep spirituality. The light that filters in from the window lights up the mosaics, exalting their beauty and the wealth of details. As Fra Bernard Thilagarajah, guardian of the Convent of Mount Nebo, stated, “The chapel is always open, so that everyone can come and experience the beauty and the spirituality of this place.”
The new mosaics of Mount Nebo represent a work of art of great value, but they are also an invitation to reflect and to pray. It is a place where pilgrims of every faith can find peace and admire, like Moses from the top of the mountain, the beauty of the Holy Land.
By:Lucia Borgato / hcef
