Jesus at the centre

Museum exhibit to trace Jesus through the centuries

By ANH HOANG
WCR Staff Writer
Edmonton

"It's the kind of exhibit that is based on religion, on Jesus Christ, but is portrayed in a way that will be of interest to all faiths . . . and all people," said retired Archbishop Joseph MacNeil.

The exhibit, Anno Domini: Jesus Through the Centuries, will be on display Oct. 7 to Jan. 7.

MacNeil, a member of the exhibit's advisory committee, says it is rare to see a religious exhibit in a North American museum, although such displays flourish in Europe.

"I was impressed by the theme," MacNeil said. "To try and help people understand how much Jesus has meant to our society.

"And to see that exemplified through works of art through the centuries."

Frank Henderson, a retired university professor and member of the exhibit's advisory committee, agrees it is rare to have a religious theme in a public museum.

But Henderson noted Christianity is not the theme of the exhibit. "This exhibit does not try to be denominational. This is a broad theme of Christ."

The exhibit focuses on 18 themes or time periods and reflects how each generation viewed Christ.

The exhibit, said MacNeil, will have an impact on everyone who sees it. "For someone who has never seen that quality of art . . . it can be an enormous influence.

"For those who have seen it, they will appreciate seeing it again, and seeing it in Edmonton, not having to go to the great museums."

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