NORTHERN CANADA NATIVITY REVISETED

Acrylic on museum quality masonite, 16x20”

The man who bought this painting from me some years ago, was asked by his son, Father John, if he could have the painting and would I, the artist, consider adding St. Jean de Brebeuf and Companions into the work. Father John wanted it for Martyrs Shrine in Midland to hang there. I am beyond honored and humbled for this! Never, when painting this back in 2011, could I have ever imagined that it would one day hang in one of one of our nation's most important religious and cultural shrines.

St. Jean and companions lived peacefully amongst the Huron people, learned their language, and respected their traditions. Jean evangelized only many years after living amongst the natives. Their own lives spoke volumes. The Jesuits attempted to bring peace amongst the warring tribes but that fateful day arrived.

St Jean was captured by the Iroqois and cruelly tortured. His heart was torn out and they ate it, thinking that they might attain his bravery. The Seven other Companions suffered a similar fate. St. Isaac Joques was martyred trying to defend the Huron at what is now Orillia.

May the friendship the Jesuits offered in the 1600's, the message of mercy and redemption in Christ, and their blood poured out, in imitation of Christ, bear fruit in our beloved nation that has lost its way.

These men were missionaries in the truest sense of the word, in that they came in humility, patience and reverence for the native peoples, with the Huron being the most gentle and docile to the missionaries.

St. Jean and Companions... I pray that your blood spilt for the love of Christ, forevermore bear fruit in our magnificent land and all the people's who inhabit it.

Martin, dear, can you place this after the original one along with this meditation

I am moving back to London to be near Luke and Philip and medical facilities.

How are you and Christine faring? There is a show on HGTV called The County. 

She is a designer. It has such a great community feel there, arts and music wise. 

You are very blessed!

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