Painting, "Father Michael J. McGivney", oil on canvas, 2003, by Antonella Cappuccio. The image is of spiritual guidance and comfort provided to the throngs of newly arrived immigrants by the Knights of Columbus and its founder, Father Michael J. McGivney. The artist has shown the settlers coming to the shores of America through New York Harbor, bringing with them the hopes and dreams of a new life, both economic, cultural and spiritual. The symbolic Statue of Liberty is seen off in the distance offering solace, hope and prayers to all who pass "beside the golden door." At the far right we see Father Michael J. McGivney, seated, holding an opened book. Behind him we glimpse the facade of St. Mary's Church, where Father Michael J. McGivney first organized the Knights of Columbus. He saw clearly that both Catholics and the Church faced serious problems in the last half of the 19th century such as anti-Catholicism and ethnic prejudice; under-employment; lack of social standing and early loss of the breadwinner. The Order's emblem appears above the enveloping drapery. The moon and morning stars provide a backdrop for the beginning of a new day in a new land where the hopes and dreams of all who pass are answered.
Source: Knights of Columbus Museum, Inc.
Museum Object # 2003.23.1