French foundress now has “southwestern” look

Something tells me that Taos, New Mexico artist JK (Jan) Lamkin and Saint Mother Theodore Guerin would really hit it off. Jan is said to “combine artistic talent with an understanding of the land and to create glorious images drenched with emotion and color.” Both are great communicators, Jan using the medium of art and Mother Theodore that of words.

Jan was introduced to the Sisters of Providence when I received a phone call from Ed Pease, former U.S. Representative from Indiana and friend of the Sisters of Providence. Ed informed me that he had commissioned an artist (JK Lamkin) in Laos, NM, to write an icon of Saint Mother Theodore Guerin to commemorate our 175th anniversary year of celebration and that the icon was “on its way.”

Several days later the huge, carefully wrapped box arrived. It probably took us a good 20 minutes just to unpack it! But the time and effort were well worth it! We stood in awe of what the closely sealed parcel revealed. And the icon had arrived in time for our October 22 Foundation Day festivities which opened our 175th anniversary year.

The image became an instant favorite for some sisters and staff members. The brightness of color, Mother Theodore’s beautiful countenance and penetrating eyes readily take the viewer in. The inclusion of familiar symbols like tulip tree blossoms, white violets and fleur-de- lis only add to the pleasure of viewing it. One just naturally wants to “spend some time with it.”

Currently you can see the icon on display in the Saint Mother Theodore Shrine chapel. Plan your visit to Saint Mary-of-the-Woods soon so that you can see the many artistic assets in the new Shrine of Saint Mother Theodore Guerin Shrine.