Bronze sculpture in St. Peter’s Square offers message of hospitality April 16, 2025By Justin McLellan Catholic News Service Filed Under: News, Vatican, World News VATICAN CITY (CNS) — A new bronze sculpture installed in St. Peter’s Square, near the showers and medical clinic the Vatican runs for people in need, invites visitors to reflect on the sacredness of welcoming others, especially the marginalized. Titled “Be Welcoming,” the work by Canadian artist Timothy Schmalz was unveiled April 15 in its place on the steps leading into the square from the colonnade. Inspired by Hebrews 13:2 — “Do not neglect hospitality, for through it some have unknowingly entertained angels” — the sculpture depicts a weary traveler appearing as a homeless man. However, from another angle, his tattered belongings transform into angelic wings. The statue aims to make Scripture tangible by offering a “physical experience” of the biblical text, said a press release April 15 from the office of the papal almoner. Schmalz is also known for “Angels Unaware,” a sculpture depicting migrants from various historic periods and ethnic groups, that stands on the opposite side of St. Peter’s Square. Read More Vatican News Pope Leo XIV names former missionary in Cuba as new bishop of Venice, Florida First-ever pilgrimage celebrates Pope Leo with Mass, visits to papal boyhood landmarks Vatican continues dialogue with German bishops regarding blessing for same-sex couples, cardinal says Pope Leo thanks Canary Islands as hantavirus-stricken ship arrives in Tenerife Bishop Varden on hope, AI, patience — and not weaponizing Christianity Leo XIV: A pope of order for chaotic times Copyright © 2025 Catholic News Service/U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops Print
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