INSPIRATIONAL ARTWORK HEADING TO SUTTON COLDFIELD CHURCH
An inspiring, life-size statue of Christ, made exclusively of nails, will soon be installed at a Sutton Coldfield church. Sorrows of Steel, by sculptor Shaun Gagg, will be a focal point for the newly-refurbished Lady Chapel of Holy Cross & St Francis Catholic Church, Walmley.
The installation was been approved by the Archdiocese of Birmingham Committee for Art and Architecture. Parish priest, Father Neil Bayliss, said: “I thought the sculpture should be in a church where Christians can see it, reflect on it and get inspiration. It is an amazing sight and one which I want many others to share in. “Many parishioners have taken the chance to see the artwork whilst it has been on display in a local art gallery, and were fully supportive of my proposal to buy it. “Art plays a huge role in the church and this was a great opportunity for us to add something extra special to the redevelopment of the Lady Chapel.”
Deacon Paul O’Connor, Head of Planning for the Archdiocese of Birmingham, said: “The statue is an inspiration, worthy and fitting for Holy Cross & St Francis. “It is perfectly legitimate for a parish which is financially well-run, well-maintained and carries out social outreach projects to use sacred art to further witness to the glory of God and inspire its people.”
‘Sorrows of Steel’ was installed before Christmas 2017.
