September 16, 2015
La Roche College to Turn a Page of The Saint John’s Bible Each Day of Pope Francis’ Historic Visit to America
PITTSBURGH, Sept. 16, 2015 – Beginning Monday, Sept. 21, and each day of Pope Francis’s historic visit to America, La Roche University will join institutions across the country by turning to the same page of The Saint John’s Bible Heritage Edition.
This simple act will be a rich symbol of Christian solidarity as the American people welcome the Holy Father. There are more than 160 illuminations and 1,150 pages in the seven volumes of The Saint John’s Bible.
“It is so appropriate that The Saint John’s Bible Heritage Edition should be at the center of our thoughts during Pope Francis’ visit to the United States and, in particular, Pennsylvania,” La Roche University President Sister Candace Introcaso, CDP, Ph.D., said. “In the past three years since La Roche acquired the Heritage Edition, its messages and stunning illuminations have been incorporated into our academic programs, worship services and campus life. Just as Pope Francis inspires us to seek and serve those in need, The Saint John’s Bible inspires us to personally reflect on the power and providence of God in our lives.”
The following illuminations will be on display each day in La Roche University’s Wright Library and online:
Monday, Sept. 21
Creation (Genesis)
Tuesday, Sept. 22
Abraham and Sarah (Genesis)
Wednesday, Sept. 23
Ten Commandments (Exodus)
Thursday, Sept. 24
Peter’s Confession (Matthew)
Friday, Sept. 25
Multiplication of the Loaves and Fishes (Mark)
Saturday, Sept. 26
Two Cures (Mark)
Sunday, Sept. 27
Pentecost (Acts of the Apostle)
According to Saint John’s Rev. Michael Patella, OSB, who chaired the scholarship effort behind The Saint John’s Bible, “These illuminations were specifically chosen because they resonate with values Pope Francis holds dear: hospitality; concern for the poor, sick and marginalized; the dignity of all people; and care for creation.”
In addition to the illuminated pages, a reflection for each day, written by Saint John’s University School of Theology and Seminary, also will be on display.
The Saint John’s Bible is the first handwritten and illuminated Bible commissioned by a Benedictine monastery since the invention of the printing press in the 15th century. Saint John’s University in Collegeville, Minnesota, commissioned world-renowned calligrapher Donald Jackson, senior scribe to Her Majesty the Queen’s Crown Office at the House of Lords in London, England, to create this masterpiece.
About La Roche University: A private liberal arts college in the North Hills of Pittsburgh, La Roche University offers more than 50 undergraduate and five graduate degree programs, with particular strengths in education, business, criminal justice, psychology, and health and medical sciences as well as interior design and graphic design. This residential college provides a vibrant campus community for more than 1,400 men and women enjoying 30-plus student organizations and an exciting NCAA Div. III athletics program. Founded by the Sisters of Divine Providence in 1963, La Roche University embraces its Catholic heritage while welcoming people of all faiths and backgrounds. With a legacy of social justice and a commitment to international exchange, La Roche University educates students to be lifelong learners and achievers in an increasingly diverse and global society.
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