CNS photo | Mary Seamans The Last Supper sits on the grounds of St. Emma Monastery in Greensburg, Pa. Artist Timothy Schmalz of Elmira, Ont., created the sculpture.

From a distance, a distinct figure sits alone at a long, rectangular table surrounded by 12 large, empty stools.

It is only upon approaching the table that one realizes the figure is a life-size bronze sculpture of Christ breaking bread.

Yet none of his disciples is there.

"The 12 empty seats basically suggest that we in a sense have to become the apostles of Christ," said artist Timothy Schmalz of Elimira, Ont., who created the sculpture.

Titled The Last Supper, the artwork rests amid tranquility on the grounds of St. Emma Monastery in Greensburg, Pa.

Christ's eyes are fixed downward toward his chest, with the top of his garment open. "Christ is looking down at the holy Eucharist," Schmalz said.

"And his opened robe exposes his heart."

Every stool presents an opportunity to see and reflect upon Christ from a different vantage point.

The Last Supper is an invitation to sit at the table, perhaps eat a picnic lunch, pray, reflect or converse with Christ.

Schmalz's website is www.sculpturebytps.com.