Pastel Sermons in Art

People of all generations love art. I believe the visual arts speak to the heart and often communicate at a deeper level. I enjoy combining art with music and the spoken word to present a unique and inspirational message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The images displayed to the right represent just a few of the more than a dozen different art sermons I have presented in churches throughout the state of Arizona. Pictured are: "Portrait of Christ," "Bread of Life," "Crown of Thorns," and "Praying Hands."

Here is a little about me. I am an ordained United Methodist pastor, who served as founding pastor of New Song United Methodist Church in Surprise, Arizona and Spirit Song United Methodist Church in Peoria, Arizona. I retired in July, 2010 and am currently serving as part-time pastor of Membership & Evangelism at Willowbrook United Methodist Church in Sun City, Arizona. Before entering the ministry, I was a professional artist and graphic designer, first in New York City, then later in Phoenix. I have presented my “art sermons” in churches throughout the state of Arizona.

Schedule of Upcoming Art Sermons

I will be presenting an art sermon titled "In Remembrance of Me" at our Saturday Sabbath service on July 31, 2010 at Willowbrook United Methodist Church in Sun City, AZ. Worship begins at 5:00pm and the church is located at 19390 N. 99th Avenue.

I have also been invited to preach at Faith United Methodist Church in Phoenix, AZ on Sunday, August 22, 2010. I will be presenting one of my favorite art sermons, a meditation on the life of the Apostle Paul titled "Paul in Chains." I'm sure the congregation of Faith UMC would love to have you worship with us on that Sunday. Worship is at 9:30am and the church is located at 8640 N. 19th Avenue in Phoenix.

Religious Oil Paintings

After working for many years in pastels, I have recently tried my hand at painting some religious-themed artwork in oil. Here are my first three endeavors -- in fact, my first attempts at painting portraits of any kind in oils. Portraits present a new challenge, not only in achieving a good likeness but in mixing life-like colors. I don't think they're too bad for first attempts but I know I will improve as I paint more.

"IHS - Jesus, Son of God, Savior"" (16"x20" oil on canvas) SOLD Growing up in the church I saw "IHS" on the altar, pulpit and other places but didn't know what it stood for (I thought it was an abbreviation for "In His Service"). The "I" is the first letter of the Greek for "Jesus," "H" is the first letter of the Greek word for "Son" and "S" is the first letter of the Greek word for Savior." This painting depicts Christ's passion as he is led to the cross. Larger view

"The Ultimate Sacrifice" (18"x24" oil on canvas board) This painting honors those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for God and country. Larger view

"The Nativity" (24"x36" oil on canvas) I was inspired by the movie "The Nativity Story" to paint this scene for Christmas. I wanted a large painting over the television set that fit in with our Christmas decorations and so I quickly (2 days) painted this scene.