NEW YORK (AP) — St. Patrick's Cathedral, a beacon of cultural and spiritual significance in New York City, has unveiled a remarkable new mural honoring the city’s immigrants.
The mural, which stands an impressive 25 feet tall and stretches across the entryway of the landmark, features depictions of everyday immigrants alongside notable historical figures. This unveiling comes at a time of heightened tension surrounding immigration policies nationwide.
Rev. Enrique Salvo, the cathedral’s rector and an immigrant from Nicaragua, emphasized that the mural aims to provide a message of warmth and acceptance, stating, 'We want anyone that comes in to feel loved and welcomed.' Despite not being intended as a political piece, it resonates with a strong message of unity.
The artwork, titled 'What’s So Funny About Peace, Love, and Understanding', was commissioned by Cardinal Timothy Dolan, the archbishop of New York. He noted that the prior entryway was dull and uneventful, and this mural serves to brighten the space for the six million visitors the church welcomes annually.
Local artist Adam Cvijanovic created the mural to honor the contributions of Irish immigrants who played a crucial role in the construction of the cathedral. One section depicts the Apparition at Knock, intertwining Irish heritage with the cathedral's history, as it coincides with the year the church opened.
Beyond historical figures, the mural incorporates images of contemporary migrants alongside influential local individuals, including journalist and activist Dorothy Day, philanthropist Pierre Toussaint, and former New York Governor Alfred E. Smith.
Furthermore, Cvijanovic made it a point to represent Native Americans, featuring St. Kateri Tekakwitha, the first Native American saint, in this inclusive mural.
Cardinal Dolan praised Cvijanovic for capturing the essence of New York, calling it 'an effusive ode to the greatness of this city and its people'.
