Translating the resurrection
Let’s face it – the concept of resurrection is outside our experience. Most people in an Easter congregation this morning will know what death is all about – they will all have lost somebody near or dear. Most will know all about the joy of birth too – either directly or through others. Resurrection, though, is something else entirely. We can only hope to understand it or convey it by translating it. This is what Denys Arcand did in his film, Jesus of Montreal, when he showed the donation of organs and cornea from the actor playing Jesus after his death in the film. This is what I have tried to do every time I get out my little piece of Serbian lace, as I shall do later this morning. This is what artist Maggi Hambling has tried to do with her sculpture Resurrection Spirit, in St Dunstan’s church, Mayfield- which will be dedicated today.
Rather then depicting the resurrection, it evokes it, as a glittering bird emerges into the free space above the altar. What do you think?
Image: culture24.org.uk
