Word and Art with Bishop Dolan - Holy Water Fonts and Their Deeper Meaning

On this 22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time, Bishop John Dolan reflects on the significance of holy water fonts, such as the ornate font in the Basilica of San Frediano in Lucca, Italy, in this week’s episode of Word and Art, in which he connects a Sunday reading with a famous work of art.

As he reflects on the traditions of priests washing their hands during the Mass, deacons purifying the sacred vessels and the faithful blessing themselves with holy water, Bishop John reminds us that these traditions point to the truth that something holy is taking place. They also remind us of our baptism, point us toward inner conversion and ultimately remind us that we ourselves are sacred to Christ.

Bishop John brings an exciting and insightful perspective to the series as he earned a Master of Arts degree in Liturgy/Church Art and Architecture from St. Patrick’s Seminary and University in Menlo Park, Calif.