Jesuit sculptures form centrepiece in 'Works for the Spirit' Festival

Twelve works by Jesuit sculptor, Fr Rory Geoghegan SJ, form the central focus of the Chilworth Friary Festival which is taking place between 3 and 12 October.  The sculptures, which together provide a prayerful meditation on the story of Salvation, will be displayed in the Friary Church and Cloisters.

According to Brother Austin OFM, the Guardian at the Friary near Guildford: "The title Works for the Spirit derives from the exhibition of contemporary religious sculptures which are at the centre of our Friary Festival this year.  The festival focuses on not only the splendour of Creation, as seen both through the medium of the floral fruits of Creation, and in our friends from the world of pets and animals for the annual blessing, but also on the reason why we have Creation at all."

Father Rory himself describes his works as "contemporary sacred art".

"My purpose has been to appeal to people who spend time in prayerful reflection," he says. "I encourage people to 'spend time being with the sculptures'.  Explore all sides of the piece.  Wander around them.  Make your time with any one piece a time of discovery and personal enquiry.

Fr Rory says the ideas for his sculptures have often come out of prayerful and challenging times in his own life.  The subjects of those on display at the Chilworth Friar Festival range from biblical themes such as 'Song of Songs' or 'Here is your King' (John 19, vv 13-15) to the personification of Wisdom in 'Sophia' and a Pieta inspired after the events of 11 September 2001.

Works of the Spirit starts with Mass at 10am on Friday, 3 October, with musical and liturgical events taking place throughout the week.  The Franciscan Friary is situated in Sampleoak Lane, Chilworth in Surrey.  For more details about the Festival and travel instructions, see www. works-for-the-spirit.org.uk (link below).


 Works for the Spirit