The story of Christ reverberates through every Lenten season, yet each year offers a unique reflection on God’s incarnational story of self-sacrifice and love. This Lent, we will explore The Art of Lent by acclaimed author and art critic Sister Wendy Beckett (1930–2018). In this book, Beckett pairs celebrated paintings from around the world with moments from Christ’s journey—leading us through the wilderness, raging seas, temple courts, and ultimately to the cross.

For those who wish to journey through faith and the arts this season, you are warmly invited to our Wednesday evening gatherings, beginning March 12. Together, we will take a deeper look at some of humanity’s most beautiful artistic creations featured in the book, alongside Sister Wendy Beckett’s profound reflections on Christ’s suffering.

Participants are strongly encouraged to purchase their own copy of the book, though we will share select paintings and excerpts on our website. If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Joseph (joseph@tokyounion.org).

Good Friday
Passionate Sacrifice
Crucifixion,
2008, Craigie Aitchison

“Shortly before his death, Craigie Aitchison painted this extraordinary crucifixion. The world has been reduced to absolutes, in which only nature is innocent. The earth has become desert, and yet Jesus draws new life, the scarlet of a poppy. The very presence of the cross has created a strip of living green against which we can make out Aitchison’s beloved Bedlington dog. But above the land soars Christ on the cross, a luminous body blazing with the fire of love. His features are consumed in the intensity of his passionate sacrifice.”