The Trujillo Cathedral (also known as the Cathedral Basilica of Santa María)
is the cathedral and main church of Trujillo, Peru.
A large part of the work was built by the architect Francisco de Soto Ríos,
from 1647, and then completed by Francisco Balboa in 1666.
The cathedral has beautiful paintings on its vault and in the dome; for this
reason it is known as the Sistine Chapel or the Vatican of the Coast, in a
similar way to how the Church of San Pedro de Andahuaylillas (Cusco) is known
as the Sistine Chapel or the Vatican of the Andes.
|
Facade of Trujillo Cathedral
|
|
Main door of the cathedral
The narthex (entrance or lobby area) is located at the southwest end of
the nave, serving as a transition from the outside world to the sacred
space within.
|
|
Interior of the cathedral
Its interior is quite sober. It presents Rococo altarpieces painted
white with gold and a Baroque one with the same colors.
- The canvases belong to the Cusco school of painting.
|
|
Angel collecting Christ's blood on the cross
The image of an angel collecting Christ's blood on the cross has several
theological interpretations:
-
Redemption and Sacrifice: The blood of Christ is central to the
Christian belief in redemption. The angel collecting the blood
symbolizes the acceptance of Christ's sacrifice by God and its
efficacy in purifying and saving humanity.
-
Intercession and Mediation: The angel can be seen as a mediator
between God and humanity, presenting Christ's blood to the Father as a
sign of intercession. This reinforces the idea of Christ as the
mediator who intercedes on behalf of humanity.
-
Transubstantiation: In Roman Catholic theology, the act of the angel
collecting Christ's blood can also refer to the concept of
transubstantiation, where the bread and wine used in the Eucharist are
believed to become the actual body and blood of Christ.
-
Protection and Mercy: Similar to the blood of the Passover lamb that
protected the Israelites in Egypt, Christ's blood is seen as a
protection against sin and condemnation.
-
See more at
Blood of Christ - Wikipedia.
|
|
Ecstasy of Saint Teresa
Her autobiography, The Life of Teresa of Jesus, and her books
The Interior Castle and The Way of Perfection are
prominent works on Christian mysticism and Christian meditation
practice.
-
In her autobiography, written as a defense of her ecstatic mystical
experiences, she discerns four stages in the ascent of the soul to
God: mental prayer and meditation; the prayer of quiet;
absorption-in-God; ecstatic consciousness.
-
The Interior Castle, written as a spiritual guide for her
Carmelite sisters, uses the illustration of seven mansions within the
castle of the soul to describe the different states one's soul can be
in during life.
-
See more at
Teresa of Ávila - Wikipedia.
|
|
Crucifixion with Mary, John and Mary Magdalene
The presence of Mary, John, and Mary Magdalene at the Crucifixion of
Jesus emphasizes the human connections and relationships that Jesus had,
and it also serves to show the loyalty and love of his closest followers
even in the face of immense suffering and danger.
-
Mary, the Mother of Jesus: Mary’s presence highlights her deep love
and devotion to her son. It also fulfills the prophecy of Simeon, who
told her that a sword would pierce her own soul (Luke 2:35). Her
presence at the Crucifixion underscores her role as the mother of the
Messiah and her participation in his suffering.
-
John, the Beloved Disciple: John’s presence is significant because
Jesus entrusts the care of his mother to John, saying, “Woman, here is
your son,” and to John, “Here is your mother” (John 19:26-27). This
act symbolizes the creation of a new family of believers, united by
faith rather than blood.
-
Mary Magdalene: Mary Magdalene’s presence is important as she is one
of Jesus’ most devoted followers. She is often seen as a symbol of
repentance and redemption, having been healed by Jesus from seven
demons (Luke 8:2). Her presence at the Crucifixion and later at the
Resurrection (John 20:1-18) highlights her unwavering faith and
dedication.
|
|
Altar of the Holy Family
The Holy Family consists of the Child Jesus, the Virgin Mary and Saint
Joseph. The subject became popular in art from the 1490s on for several
reasons.
-
Model of Virtuous Living: The Holy Family exemplifies virtues such as
faith, obedience, and love. Their lives demonstrate how to live
according to God's will, with Mary and Joseph both showing remarkable
faith and trust in God's plan.
-
Foundation of Family Life: The Holy Family serves as a model for
Christian families. They show the importance of family as a place
where faith is nurtured, love is freely given, and virtues are taught.
This is seen in how they lived their daily lives in Nazareth,
providing a blueprint for family life centered on God.
-
Symbol of Unity and Love: The Holy Family represents the unity and
love that should be present in all families. Their mutual support and
care for each other reflect the ideal relationships within a family,
emphasizing the importance of love, respect, and support.
-
Spiritual Significance: The Holy Family's life events, such as the
Nativity, the flight into Egypt, and their return to Nazareth, are
significant in the Christian narrative. These events highlight their
obedience to God's will and their role in the divine plan of
salvation.
-
Feast of the Holy Family: Celebrated on the Sunday following
Christmas, this feast day reminds Christians of the importance of
family and encourages them to emulate the Holy Family's virtues in
their own lives.
-
See more at
Holy Family - Wikipedia.
|
|
Altar of Saint Peter
Saint Peter is often depicted sitting on a chair, particularly in
religious art and iconography, to symbolize his authority and leadership
within the Church. This imagery is rooted in several key aspects.
-
Papal Authority: As the first Pope, Peter's seated position represents
his role as the leader of the early Christian Church. The chair, or
"cathedra," is a symbol of the Pope's teaching authority and
governance.
-
Apostolic Succession: The chair signifies the unbroken line of
succession from Saint Peter to the current Pope. It emphasizes the
continuity and legitimacy of the papal office.
-
Judgment and Teaching: In ancient times, teachers and judges often sat
while delivering their teachings or judgments. Depicting Peter seated
highlights his role in teaching and guiding the early Christians.
-
Stability and Foundation: The chair also symbolizes stability and the
foundational role Peter played in establishing the Church, as Jesus
referred to him as the "rock" upon which the Church would be built.
-
See more at
Primacy of Peter - Wikipedia.
|
|
Altar of the Virgin Mary
In the Andes, the Virgin Mary is often represented as a mountain due to
the blending of indigenous Andean beliefs with Catholic traditions
brought by Spanish colonizers. The indigenous people of the Andes
revered Pachamama, or Mother Earth, who was closely associated with
mountains, as they were seen as sacred and life-giving.
-
When Catholicism was introduced, the Virgin Mary became a symbol that
could be integrated into existing spiritual practices. By depicting
her as a mountain, the indigenous people could continue their
reverence for the natural world while embracing the new religious
iconography. This representation symbolizes the Virgin Mary's role as
a nurturing and protective figure, much like the mountains that
provide sustenance and shelter.
-
This syncretic imagery allowed for a smoother cultural and religious
transition, making the Virgin Mary a powerful symbol of both faiths.
-
See more at
Veneration of Mary in the Catholic Church: Cultural adaptations -
Wikipedia.
|
|
Altar of the Assumption of Mary
The Assumption, particularly in the context of the Catholic Church,
refers to the belief that the Virgin Mary was taken up into heaven, body
and soul, at the end of her earthly life. This event is celebrated on
August 15th each year as the Solemnity of the Assumption.
-
Theological Significance: It underscores Mary's unique role in the
salvation history as the mother of Jesus Christ. By being assumed into
heaven, Mary is seen as a precursor to the resurrection of all
Christians, symbolizing the hope of eternal life.
-
Spiritual Inspiration: For many believers, the Assumption serves as a
source of inspiration and hope. It reinforces the belief in the
resurrection and the promise of eternal life, encouraging the faithful
to live virtuous lives in anticipation of their own resurrection.
-
Marian Devotion: The Assumption is a central event in Marian devotion,
highlighting Mary's special place in the Church. It is a reminder of
her purity and her close relationship with God, which is celebrated
through various prayers, hymns, and liturgical practices.
-
Cultural and Liturgical Celebrations: The Assumption is marked by
numerous cultural and liturgical celebrations around the world. These
celebrations often include processions, feasts, and special masses,
reflecting the deep-rooted traditions and the communal aspect of
faith.
-
See more at
Assumption of Mary - Wikipedia.
|
|
Lord Master of Mercy
«Patron saint, venerated in the Buldibuyo district, Tayabamba Pataz
province, La Libertad and Buldibuyano residents in the city of Trujillo.
The Brotherhood, Trujillo May 9, 2024.» God's mercy is a profound and
central aspect of many religious beliefs, particularly in Christianity.
-
Compassion and Forgiveness: God's mercy is often associated with
compassion and forgiveness. It means showing kindness and forgiveness
to those who may not deserve it. This is reflected in the teachings of
Jesus, who emphasized mercy as a virtue to be practiced by believers.
-
Redemption and Salvation: Mercy is crucial for redemption and
salvation. According to Christian belief, God's mercy is what allows
for the forgiveness of sins and the possibility of eternal life. This
is exemplified in the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, which is seen as the
ultimate act of mercy.
-
Daily Renewal: God's mercy is described as being renewed every day.
This means that no matter how many times a person falls short, there
is always an opportunity for forgiveness and a fresh start. This
concept is comforting and provides hope and encouragement.
-
Reflection of God's Character: Mercy is a fundamental attribute of
God's character. It is seen as an expression of His love and kindness
towards humanity. By understanding and experiencing God's mercy,
believers are encouraged to reflect this attribute in their own lives
by showing mercy to others.
-
Peace and Joy: Experiencing God's mercy brings peace and joy to
believers. It reassures them of God's love and care, even in times of
failure or hardship. This sense of peace and joy is a significant
benefit of God's mercy.
|
|
Altar of Saint Turibius of Mogrovejo
Saint Turibius of Mogrovejo, Patron Saint of the City of Tayamba,
Province of Pataz, Region La Libertad, Peru.
-
Toribio Alfonso de Mogrovejo (16 November 1538 – 23 March 1606) was a
Spanish Catholic prelate who served as Archbishop of Lima from 1579
until his death.
-
See more at
Turibius of Mogrovejo - Wikipedia.
|
|
Crucifixion of Jesus
The crucifixion of Jesus was the violent death of Jesus by nailing him
to a wooden cross.
-
Atonement for Sins: Christians believe that Jesus' death on the cross
was a sacrificial act to atone for the sins of humanity. This act of
atonement is seen as fulfilling the requirements of justice while
offering mercy and forgiveness to all who believe.
-
Demonstration of God's Love: The crucifixion is viewed as the ultimate
demonstration of God's love for humanity. By willingly sacrificing His
Son, God showed the extent of His love and commitment to saving
humanity.
-
Victory Over Death and Evil: The crucifixion, followed by Jesus'
resurrection, is seen as a victory over death and the powers of evil.
It signifies the defeat of sin and death, offering believers the hope
of eternal life.
-
Fulfillment of Prophecies: The events of the crucifixion are believed
to fulfill numerous Old Testament prophecies, reinforcing the belief
in Jesus as the promised Messiah.
-
Foundation of Christian Faith: The crucifixion is central to Christian
faith and practice. It is commemorated in various Christian rituals
and observances, such as Good Friday and the Eucharist.
-
See more at
Crucifixion of Jesus - Wikipedia.
|
|
Altar of Our Lady of Guadalupe
Our Lady of Guadalupe is a Catholic title of Mary, mother of Jesus
associated with a series of four Marian apparitions to a Mexican peasant
named Juan Diego and one to his uncle, Juan Bernardino, which are
believed to have occurred in December 1531, when the Mexican territories
were part of the Spanish Empire.
-
The shrine to Our Lady of Guadalupe in Guadalupe, Cáceres, in
Extremadura, Spain was the most important of the shrines to the Virgin
Mary in the medieval Kingdom of Castile. It is one of the many dark-
or black-skinned Madonnas in Spain and is revered in the Monastery of
Santa María de Guadalupe, in the town of Guadalupe, from which
numerous Spanish conquistadors stem.
-
Following the Conquest in 1519–1521, the Marian cult was brought to
the Americas and Franciscan friars often leveraged syncretism with
existing religious beliefs as an instrument for evangelization.
-
See more at
Our Lady of Guadalupe - Wikipedia.
|
|
Marian apparitions
According to the Nican Mopohua, included in the 17th-century Huei
tlamahuiçoltica, written in Nahuatl, the Virgin Mary appeared four times
to Juan Diego, a Chichimec peasant, and once to his uncle, Juan
Bernardino.
-
The first apparition occurred on the morning of Saturday, December 9,
1531 (Julian calendar, which is December 19 on the (proleptic)
Gregorian calendar in present use).
-
Juan Diego experienced a vision of a young woman at a place called the
Hill of Tepeyac, which later became part of Villa de Guadalupe, in a
suburb of Mexico City.
-
See more at
Our Lady of Guadalupe: Description of Marian apparitions -
Wikipedia.
|
|
The image of the Virgin
The Virgin told him to gather flowers from the summit of Tepeyac Hill,
which was normally barren, especially in the cold of December. Juan
Diego obeyed her instruction and he found Castilian roses, not native to
Mexico, blooming there.
|
|
Altar of Virgin and Child
Virgin and Child or Madonna and Child or Mary and Child usually refers
to artistic depictions of Mary and Child Jesus together, as part of both
Catholic and Orthodox church traditions, and very notably in the Marian
art in the Catholic Church.
-
The Virgin Birth: The belief that Jesus was born to the Virgin Mary is
central to Christian doctrine. It underscores the divine nature of
Jesus, affirming that He is both fully God and fully man. This
miraculous birth is seen as a fulfillment of prophecy and a testament
to God's intervention in human history.
-
Symbol of Purity and Obedience: Mary, often referred to as the Virgin
Mary, is venerated for her purity and her willing acceptance of God's
will. Her role as the mother of Jesus highlights her obedience and
faith, making her a model for Christians to emulate.
-
Incarnation of Christ: The depiction of the Virgin and Child
emphasizes the incarnation, the belief that God became flesh in the
person of Jesus Christ. This is a cornerstone of Christian faith,
illustrating God's love and willingness to enter into human experience
to bring salvation.
-
Art and Devotion: Throughout history, the image of the Virgin and
Child has been a powerful subject in Christian art, inspiring devotion
and reverence. Icons and paintings of the Virgin and Child are used in
worship and personal devotion, serving as visual reminders of the
divine mysteries of faith.
-
See more at
List of depictions of the Virgin and Child - Wikipedia.
|
|
Altar of Saint Joseph
Joseph was a 1st-century Jewish man of Nazareth who, according to the
canonical Gospels, was married to Mary, the mother of Jesus, and was the
legal father of Jesus.
-
Earthly Father of Jesus: Joseph was the husband of Mary and the legal
father of Jesus Christ. Although not his biological father, Joseph
played a crucial role in Jesus' upbringing and protection.
-
Model of Virtue: Joseph is often seen as a model of faith,
righteousness, and obedience to God's will. His actions, such as
taking Mary as his wife despite the social stigma and fleeing to Egypt
to protect Jesus, demonstrate his unwavering faith and dedication.
-
Patron Saint: In Roman Catholicism, Joseph is the patron saint of the
universal church, families, fathers, and workers. He is also invoked
for a happy death, as it is believed he died in the presence of Jesus
and Mary.
-
Legacy and Veneration: Joseph's life and legacy continue to inspire
many Christians. His feast days, celebrated on March 19th (Saint
Joseph's Day) and May 1st (Feast of Saint Joseph the Worker),
highlight his importance in the Christian liturgical calendar.
-
See more at
Saint Joseph - Wikipedia.
|
|
Mary at the Cross
Mary's role at the cross is a poignant reminder of her unique
relationship with Jesus and her significant place in the story of
salvation.
-
Compassion and Suffering: Mary's presence at the cross highlights her
profound compassion and shared suffering with Jesus. Witnessing her
son's crucifixion, she embodies the ultimate maternal sorrow and
empathy.
-
Spiritual Motherhood: By standing at the cross, Mary is seen as
participating in Jesus' redemptive work. This act underscores her role
as the spiritual mother of all believers, a concept often referred to
as her universal motherhood.
-
Faith and Trust: Mary's unwavering faith and trust in God's plan, even
in the face of immense pain, serve as a powerful example for
Christians. Her presence at the cross is a testament to her deep faith
and acceptance of God's will.
-
Symbol of Love: The emotional impact of Mary's sorrow at the foot of
the cross symbolizes the profound love that Jesus had for humanity,
which ultimately led to his sacrifice.
-
See more at
Women at the crucifixion - Wikipedia.
|
|
The ultimate trust and devotion to God
«Quid enim mihi est in caelo et a te quid volui super terram?» (Ps
72,25). «Whom have I in heaven but you? And there is nothing on earth
that I desire besides you» (Ps 73 (72),25). This verse is often seen as
an expression of the psalmist's ultimate trust and devotion to God.
-
Expression of Dependence on God: The psalmist acknowledges that God is
the only one who can truly satisfy and fulfill their needs, both in
heaven and on earth.
-
Contrast with Earthly Desires: It highlights the contrast between
earthly desires and the ultimate fulfillment found in a relationship
with God. This can be a reminder for Christians to prioritize their
spiritual relationship over material or worldly pursuits.
-
Encouragement in Times of Trouble: Psalm 73 as a whole deals with the
struggle of understanding why the wicked prosper while the righteous
suffer. Verses like 73:25 provide comfort and reassurance that,
despite life's challenges, God remains the ultimate source of strength
and hope.
-
Spiritual Aspiration: For many Christians, this verse represents a
spiritual aspiration to reach a point where their desire for God
surpasses all other desires. It serves as a goal for deepening one's
faith and reliance on God.
-
See more at
Psalm 73 - Wikipedia.
|
|
Saint Turibius of Mogrovejo
Mural painting of the saint, which reads: "Blessed Don Toribio Alfonso
Mogrovejo, born in Mallorga, Archbishop of Lima, Most Clear Light of
Peru, strong shield of faith, staunch defender of ecclesiastical
immunity, admirable in the love of God, in charity with his neighbor, in
the prudence of government, in constancy and suffering in adversity,
marvelous in miracles and virtues. He died in the city of Saña on March
23, 1606, at the age of 68 and as Archbishop of 25. Beatified by our
very holy father Innocent XI with a solemn rite on the 28th of June of
the year of our Lord 1679. May the slavery of the Most Holy Sacrament
dedicate this altar to him on its annual feast day, July 13, 1681."
|
|
The Angel of Welcome
The angel of the community welcomes believers as they enter the nave of
the cathedral.
-
The Catholic Church teaches that each individual has a guardian angel,
a belief rooted in scripture and tradition. While it is not explicitly
stated that each church has a guardian angel, it is believed that
communities, including parishes, can have guardian angels. This means
that while there isn't a specific doctrine about each church having
its own guardian angel, the idea that communities are protected by
angels is supported.
-
Guardian angels work both for single persons and for communities of
people. Revelation 2:1–29 and Revelation 3:1–22 refers of the angels
of the seven churches of Asia who work in the role of their guardians.
-
See more at
Guardian angel - Wikipedia
and
Seven churches of Asia: Angels of the churches - Wikipedia.
|
|
Saint Michael the Archangel
Saint Michael the Archangel holds a significant place within
Catholicism. He is often depicted as a powerful warrior and leader of
the heavenly hosts.
-
Defender Against Evil: Saint Michael is seen as the chief opponent of
Satan and the forces of evil. He is often invoked for protection
against the devil and evil spirits.
-
Guardian of the Church: Historically, he has been regarded as the
protector of the Church and its faithful. His role as a spiritual
warrior symbolizes the ongoing battle between good and evil.
-
Helper at the Hour of Death: Saint Michael is believed to assist souls
at the time of death, guiding them to the afterlife and defending them
from the final assaults of the devil.
-
Feast Day - Michaelmas: His feast day, known as Michaelmas, is
celebrated on September 29th. It is one of the major feast days in the
Roman Catholic Church, marked by special prayers and readings during
Mass.
-
See more at
Michael (archangel) - Wikipedia.
|
|
Saint Uriel the Archangel
Uriel is the name of one of the archangels who is mentioned in the
post-exilic rabbinic tradition and in certain Christian traditions.
Uriel is also known as a master of knowledge and archangel of wisdom.
-
Wisdom and Guidance: Uriel is known for providing wisdom and guidance
to believers. He helps people make sound decisions, especially in
times of confusion or uncertainty.
-
Divine Messenger: Uriel is considered a messenger of God, conveying
divine warnings and insights. For example, he is said to have warned
Noah about the Great Flood.
-
Comfort and Clarity: Uriel offers comfort during times of grief and
helps believers find clarity and peace. He assists in letting go of
destructive emotions like anxiety and anger.
-
See more at
Uriel - Wikipedia.
|
|
The Angel of Piety
Piety accords with reverence. A person with reverence recognizes his
total reliance on God and comes before God with humility, trust, and
love. Thomas Aquinas says that piety perfects the virtue of religion,
which is an aspect of the virtue of justice, in that it accords to God
that which is due to God.
-
Expression of Devotion: Piety is a way for Christians to express their
devotion to God. It involves practices such as prayer, worship, and
reading scripture, which help believers deepen their relationship with
God.
-
Moral Guidance: Piety provides a moral compass, guiding Christians to
live according to divine principles. It encourages virtues like
humility, charity, and self-discipline, helping believers navigate
life's complexities.
-
Spiritual Growth: Engaging in pious practices fosters spiritual growth
and nurtures a deeper connection with God. It helps believers grow in
their faith and become more Christ-like in their actions and
attitudes.
-
Glorifying God: The ultimate goal of piety is to glorify God. This
involves recognizing God's attributes, the structure of the world, and
the significance of Jesus Christ's death and resurrection.
-
Living Faith: Piety is seen as evidence of sincere faith. It goes
beyond thoughts and words, manifesting in actions that reflect a
genuine commitment to God and His teachings.
-
See more at
Seven gifts of the Holy Spirit: Piety - Wikipedia.
|
|
The Angel of Fortitude
Fortitude is often identified with courage, but Aquinas takes its
meaning to also encompass endurance. Joseph J. Rickaby describes it as a
willingness to stand up for what is right in the sight of God, even if
it means accepting rejection, verbal abuse, or physical harm. The gift
of fortitude allows people the firmness of mind that is required both in
doing good and in enduring evil.[24] It is the perfection of the
cardinal virtue of the same name.
-
Strength in Adversity: Fortitude empowers believers to persevere and
remain steadfast in their faith, even in the face of significant
challenges and adversities. This strength is essential for maintaining
one's commitment to Christian principles and values.
-
Courage to Defend Faith: It provides the courage needed to defend the
Christian faith against opposition and to stand up for what is just
and true. This can involve facing extreme dangers or enduring
hardships for the sake of one's beliefs.
-
Spiritual Growth: Fortitude helps Christians cope with difficulties
such as poverty and loss, allowing them to cultivate other Christian
virtues and rise above the basic requirements of their faith. This
growth is vital for deepening one's spiritual life and relationship
with God.
-
Ultimate Goal of Salvation: By enabling believers to endure life's
trials, fortitude aids in achieving the ultimate goal of salvation,
both for oneself and for helping others on their spiritual journey.
-
See more at
Seven gifts of the Holy Spirit: Fortitude - Wikipedia.
|
|
The Angel of Understanding
Understanding helps one relate all truths to one's supernatural purpose;
it further illuminates one's understanding of Sacred Scripture; and it
assists us to understand the significance of religious ritual. This gift
strengthens one's insight through prayer, scripture, and the sacraments.
This all gives a person a profound appreciation for God’s providence.
-
Guidance into Truth: The Holy Spirit helps Christians understand and
interpret God's Word. Jesus mentioned that the Spirit of truth would
guide believers into all truth (John 16:13).
-
Revelation of God's Will: The Holy Spirit reveals God's thoughts and
plans, helping believers align their lives with God's will.
-
Wisdom and Discernment: This gift provides wisdom and discernment,
enabling believers to make decisions that reflect God's guidance.
-
Spiritual Growth: By understanding spiritual truths, believers can
grow in their faith and live more righteously.
-
See more at
Seven gifts of the Holy Spirit: Understanding - Wikipedia.
|
|
Tha Angel of Wisdom
Wisdom is considered the first and the greatest of the gifts. It acts
upon both the intellect and the will. According to St. Bernard, it both
illumines the mind and instills an attraction to the divine. Adolphe
Tanquerey OP explained the difference between the gift of wisdom and
that of understanding: "The latter is a view taken by the mind, while
the former is an experience undergone by the heart; one is light, the
other love, and so they unite and complete one another." A wise and
loving heart is the perfection of the theological virtue of charity.
-
The gift of Wisdom from the Holy Spirit is often regarded as the first
and highest of the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit.
-
This gift allows believers to see things from God's perspective and
make decisions that align with His will.
-
It helps Christians to understand and apply God's Word in their daily
lives, leading to a more holy and righteous life.
-
Wisdom enables individuals to judge the things of the world in light
of the ultimate goal of human life, which is the contemplation of God.
-
This deep understanding and intimate relationship with God are seen as
essential for living a life that honors Him and fulfills His
commandments.
-
See more at
Seven gifts of the Holy Spirit: Wisdom - Wikipedia.
|
|
The Angel of Knowledge
The gift of knowledge allows one, as far as is humanly possible, to see
things from God's perspective. It “allows us to perceive the greatness
of God and his love for his creatures” through creation.
-
Understanding God's Will: This gift helps believers discern God's
purpose and plan for their lives. It allows them to see their
circumstances from a divine perspective, which can provide clarity and
direction.
-
Spiritual Growth: The Holy Spirit imparts wisdom and insight, enabling
Christians to grow in their faith and understanding of God's Word.
This deeper knowledge helps them live according to God's design.
-
Guidance and Teaching: The Holy Spirit guides believers into all
truth, revealing God's thoughts and teaching them how to apply
biblical principles in their daily lives.
-
Empowerment for Ministry: This gift equips Christians for ministry by
providing them with the necessary knowledge and understanding to serve
others effectively.
-
See more at
Seven gifts of the Holy Spirit: Knowledge - Wikipedia.
|
|
The Angel of Counsel
Counsel functions as a sort of supernatural intuition, to enable a
person to judge promptly and rightly, especially in difficult
situations. It perfects the cardinal virtue of prudence. While prudence
operates in accord with reason as enlightened by faith, the gift of
counsel operates under the guidance of the Holy Spirit to illuminate the
will of God.
-
Guidance in Decision-Making: The gift of Counsel enables Christians to
discern God's will in their lives, helping them to choose actions that
align with their faith and moral values.
-
Practical Wisdom: It provides practical wisdom, allowing believers to
see and choose correctly what will lead to the glory of God and their
own salvation.
-
Confidence in Faith: Through this gift, Christians can speak and act
without fear, defending their faith and making decisions that reflect
their beliefs.
-
Moral Clarity: Counsel helps individuals judge their actions as good
or evil, guiding them to avoid sin and pursue righteousness.
-
See more at
Seven gifts of the Holy Spirit: Counsel - Wikipedia.
|
|
The Angel of Year of Faith
The Year of Faith is the name given to two periods convened by two
popes.
-
The first, between 29 June 1967 and 30 June 1968, on the occasion of
the 19th centenary of the martyrdom of the apostles Saints Peter and
Paul, during the pontificate of Paul VI.
-
The second, between 11 October 2012 and 24 November 2013, convened by
Benedict XVI to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the opening of the
Second Vatican Council and the 20th anniversary of the publication of
the Catechism of the Catholic Church.
|
|
The Angel of Fear of the Lord
Fear of the Lord is akin to wonder (or awe). With the gift of fear of
the Lord, one is made aware of the glory and majesty of God. A person
with wonder and awe knows that God is the perfection of all one’s
desires. This gift is described by Aquinas as a fear of separating
oneself from God. He describes the gift as a "filial fear," like a
child's fear of offending his father, rather than a "servile fear," that
is, a fear of punishment. Fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.
It is the perfection of the theological virtue of hope.
-
Foundation of Wisdom: The Bible often states that the fear of the Lord
is the beginning of wisdom. This means that recognizing and respecting
God's power and authority is the first step towards gaining true
understanding and wisdom.
-
Moral Guidance: The Fear of God helps believers avoid sin and live a
life that is pleasing to God. It instills a sense of reverence and
awe, encouraging Christians to follow God's commandments and
teachings.
-
Strengthens Hope: This gift confirms the theological virtue of hope.
It assures believers that God will provide the grace necessary to
avoid sin and live a righteous life.
-
Encourages Humility: The Fear of God fosters humility by reminding
believers of their place in relation to God's greatness. It helps them
recognize their dependence on God's mercy and grace.
-
Promotes Spiritual Growth: By cultivating a healthy fear of the Lord,
Christians are motivated to grow spiritually, seek God's will, and
deepen their relationship with Him.
-
See more at
Seven gifts of the Holy Spirit: Fear of the Lord - Wikipedia.
|
|
Holy Spirit
In Nicene Christianity, the Holy Spirit, otherwise known as the Holy
Ghost, is the third person of the Trinity. In Judaism, the Holy Spirit
is the divine force, quality and influence of the unitary God over the
universe or his creatures. In essence, the Holy Spirit is seen as God's
presence within believers, guiding, empowering, and transforming them to
live according to His will.
-
Empowerment and Guidance: The Holy Spirit empowers believers,
providing spiritual strength and divine guidance. It helps Christians
understand God's will and navigate their spiritual journey.
-
Salvation and Sanctification: Through the Holy Spirit, believers are
saved, filled, sealed, and sanctified. This means the Holy Spirit
plays a crucial role in the process of salvation and in helping
believers grow in holiness.
-
Revelation and Teaching: The Holy Spirit reveals God's thoughts,
teaches believers, and guides them into all truth. It helps Christians
understand the Scriptures and apply them to their lives.
-
Intercession and Support: The Holy Spirit intercedes for believers,
especially in their weaknesses, and provides comfort and support. It
is often referred to as the "Helper" or "Comforter" in the Bible.
-
Spiritual Gifts: The Holy Spirit bestows spiritual gifts upon
believers, enabling them to serve and minister to others effectively.
These gifts are essential for the functioning and growth of the
Christian community.
-
See more at
Holy Spirit - Wikipedia.
|
|
Main Altar
The "exempt" main altarpiece stands out, that is to say that it is not
leaning on any wall.
-
It is in the Churrigueresque baroque style and is covered in gold
leaf.
-
Only two of this type of altarpiece remain in Peru: the one in the
Trujillo Cathedral and the one in the Cusco Cathedral.
|
See also
Source
Location
