The Crucifixion in the window over the St. Gabriel Altar is one of the most powerful images in the church. The symbolism and colors characteristic of Christian art and iconography feature prominently in this window and can lead us into deeper levels of reflection and prayer. The Sixth Station of the Cross, Veronica wipes the face of Jesus, is also illustrated and at the foot of the cross kneels St. Gabriel Possenti, the Passionist saint to whom the altar and window are dedicated.
Hand positions are important in iconography and that is true in many of the windows in the church. Here, Jesus’ agony is expressed by his hands, pierced by the nails and contorted in pain, but open, in acceptance of the suffering. The fourth and fifth fingers of his right hand attempt to curl under in the sign of blessing; the blessing of grace that flows to us from our crucified Lord. The blood, poured out for our salvation from His hands, pierced side, and feet is being collected in chalices, reminding us that it is the Body and Blood of our savior that we receive in the Holy Eucharist at Mass.
The crown of thorns on Jesus’ head extends upward on both sides, encircling the Holy Spirit and the right hand of God the Father, which is extended in blessing toward His suffering Son. The Holy Trinity was present in this moment of Jesus’ perfect obedience to the will of His Father for our salvation.
A prominent feature of the image is the mandorla behind Jesus, an oval shape representing a seed or womb; representing new life, transformed life; the Resurrection. The mandorla is blue, a color symbolizing divinity, spiritual love, and faithfulness. The cross is also blue. The Roman instrument of torture is transformed into a sign of victory over sin and death by the work of God.
In the scene of Veronica wiping the face of Jesus, we see Jesus dressed in blue, reminding us that He is truly human and truly divine. Veronica’s gown is green, a symbol of life and hope. In her act of selfless love, she shows us how compassion and service to one who is suffering brings hope to a broken world. The Passionists, who founded our parish, have a special love for those who suffer, and the Passion Play which many Passionist Parishes put on during Lent, was called Veronica’s Veil.
Red is a color symbolizing blood, life, and sacrifice. It frames the images in the window reminding us of the divine life poured out that our sins might be forgiven. A golden shaft of light extends from the Father’s hand at the top of the cross, emerging from behind the feet of Jesus and blending into the red. God is with us in our suffering; we can unite our suffering with the sacrifice of Jesus.
Imagine what St. Gabriel prays as he reflects on the cross of Christ. What details in this window speak to your heart? As Holy Week draws near, may we ask God to draw us more deeply into Christ’s love for us. May we experience transformation as we immerse ourselves in His suffering, death and resurrection. May we experience the victory of the cross in our lives.