Catholic Sacred Wood Sculpture

Works by A.Vonn Hartung in Catholic Churches

Posted 8 October, 2025 by Vonn

Works by A.Vonn Hartung

in Catholic Churches

The following are works of art by A.Vonn Hartung in Catholic Churches, in Puerto Rico, Connecticut, Florida, and the Vatican (Pontifical North American College, Hall of Saints).

Paintings, portraits, wood sculpture (high relief and full statues), murals, mosaics, “stained glass” windows

Casa de Niños Manuel Fernández Juncos (capilla), Miramar, San Juan, Puerto Rico

—La Madre Dolorosa, High Relief Wood Sculpture, 33 x 27 inches, Pau Lope wood, commissioned by Padre Julio Victor Garcia, 1991

—Sagrario “He is Risen” 20 x 14 x 12-inches, high relief wood sculpture on the door of Sagrario, commissioned by Padre Jorge Castillejo, 1992

—Altar and Ambo, high relief wood sculpture, Pau Lope wood, commissioned by Padre Jorge Castillejo, 1992

"La Madre Dolorosa" (Sorrowful Mother) wood sculpture (high relief) by AVonnHartung for Casa de Niños Manuel Fernandez Juncos (Miramar SJ, Puerto Rico — ***La Madre Dolorosa***

Parroquia San Francisco Javier, Urb Fairview, Trujillo Alto, Puerto Rico

—San Francisco Javier Baptizing, painting on wood panel, 7 x 11 feet, altarpiece (retablo), commissioned by Padre Julio Victor Garcia, 2002

—Vivimos para esa Noche (Beato Carlos Manuel Rodriguez Santiago), oil portrait on canvas, commissioned by Padre Julio Victor Garcia, 2000

"En el Nombre del Padre..." San Francisco Javier Baptizing, retablo painting by AVonnHartung, in Parroquia San Francisco Javier (Trujillo Alto, Puerto Rico) — ***San Francisco Javier***

Hermanas Misioneras del Buen Pastor, Caguas, Puerto Rico

—El Buen Pastor / The Lost Sheep, painted mural on canvas (after Alfred Soord, The Lost Sheep), 9 x 12 feet, Sanctuary of Capilla, commissioned by las Hermanas Misioneras del Buen Pastor, circa 1986

—Las Huellas del Buen Pastor, oil painting (small mural), 40 x 60 inches, commissioned by las Hermanas Misioneras del Buen Pastor, 1995

The Lost Sheep— one of the works by A.Vonn Hartung in Catholic Churches — ***El Buen Pastor / The Lost Sheep***

Parroquia El Buen Pastor, Guaynabo (Apolo), Puerto Rico

—El Buen Pastor, a painting on wood panel, 4 x 8 feet, commissioned by Padre Jaime Vazquez Rojas, 2003

El Buen Pastor— one of the works by A.Vonn Hartung in Catholic Churches — **El Buen Pastor**

Parroquia Santa Rosa de Lima, Guaynabo (Barrio Amelia), Puerto Rico

—A Mural of Faith: Art in the Light of Christ, a painted mural in the Sanctuary, 29 x 65 feet, commissioned by Padre Julio Victor Garcia, 1997.

—Stations of the Cross, 14 painted panels, each 4 x 8 feet (gilded with gold and copper leaf) in the nave, commissioned by Mons. Antonio “Tito” José Vázquez, 2001

—Cordero 2, wood carving (for Sagrario), commissioned by Padre José Gregorio Guaipo

—Fourteen Stations of the Resurrection, giclee prints on wood panels, Padre José Gregorio Guaipo

—Beato Carlos Manuel Rodríguez Santiago, large giclee print on canvas, Padre José Gregorio Guaipo

Jesus takes up his cross, ViaCrucis station 2 painting by A.Vonn Hartung—one of the works by A.Vonn Hartung in Catholic Churches — ***Jesus takes up his cross***

Parroquia Maria Auxiliadora, La Cantera, Hato Rey, Puerto Rico

—La Misericordia de San Juan Bosco, painting on wood panel, 3 ½ x 8 feet, commissioned by Padre Nicolás “Colacho” Navarro SDB, 2011

—San Juan Bosco blesses his successor, Blessed Michael Rua, painting on a wood panel, 3 ½ x 8 feet, commissioned by Padre Nicolás “Colacho” Navarro SDB, 2011

—Santo Domingo Savio (4 paintings on wood panels), in the side altars of the Sanctuary, commissioned by Padre Nicolás “Colacho” Navarro SDB, 2014

—Forever Young, a 27 square foot painting for the students of Colegio San Juan Bosco at Parroquia Maria Auxiliadora, commissioned by Padre Jorge Santiago Cartagena SDB, 2017

—Fourteen Stations of the Resurrection, large giclee prints on wood panels, commissioned by Padre Nicolás “Colacho” Navarro SDB, 2018

Colegio Maria Auxiliadora (in capilla), Santurce, Puerto Rico

—Mi Vida es para los Jovenes, vitral (oil paint on Lexan), commissioned by Sor Estela Baez y las Hermanas Salesianas, circa 2003.

—Santa Maria Mazzarello, vitral (oil paint on Lexan), commissioned by Sor Estela Baez y las Hermanas Salesianas, circa 2003.

Mi vida es para los Jovenes, "Stained glass" window (oil paint on Lexan) by A.Vonn Hartung—one of the works by A.Vonn Hartung in Catholic Churches — ***Mi Vida es para los Jóvenes***

Parroquia San Juan Bosco, Villa Palmeras (Calle Lutz), San Juan, Puerto Rico

—Ten Stations of the Resurrection, vitrales (oil paint on Lexan), commissioned by Padre Luis Gomez SDB, circa 2005.

Parroquia San Juan Bautista, Orocovis (pueblo), Puerto Rico

—La Vida y Profecia de San Juan Bautista (The Life and Prophecy of St. John the Baptist), mosaic mural, 500 square feet in three arches, Sanctuary, commissioned by Padre Jorge Santiago Cartagena SDB

—Last Supper (oil paint on Lexan), in Santisima Chapel, commissioned by Padre Jorge Santiago Cartagena SDB

—El Pan y el Vino (two “stained glass” windows, oil paint on Lexan) in Santisima Chapel, commissioned by Padre Jorge Santiago Cartagena SDB

—Resurrección (stained glass window) in Santisima Chapel, commissioned by Padre Jorge Santiago Cartagena SDB

—El Nacimiento de San Juan Bautista (three “stained glass” windows, oil paint on Lexan) in Sacristy, commissioned by Padre Jorge Santiago Cartagena SDB

"The Life and Prophecy of St. John the Baptist" mosic mural by AVonnHartung in Orocovis, Puerto Rico—one of the works by A.Vonn Hartung in Catholic Churches — ***La Vida y Profecía de San Juan Bautista***

Capilla San Juan Bosco, Orocovis (Barrio Gato), Puerto Rico

—El Sueño de las Dos Columnas (Dream of the Two Columns), a painted mural in the Sanctuary of Capilla, 18 x 50 feet, commissioned by Padre Jorge Santiago Cartagena SDB

—Fourteen Stations of the Resurrection, “stained glass” windows—oil paint on Lexan, commissioned by Padre Jorge Santiago Cartagena SDB

—Two large “vitrales” (theme of the mural “Dream of the Two Columns”), oil paint on Lexan, commissioned by Padre Jorge Santiago Cartagena SDB

"El Sueño de las Dos Columnas" San Juan Bosco/ "The Dream of the Two Columns" mural by AVonnHartung, in Capilla San Juan Bosco (Orocovis, Puerto Rico) — ***El Sueño de las Dos Columnas***

Capilla Divino Niño Jesús, Orocovis (Botijas), Puerto Rico

—San José con el Niño Jesús, acrylic painting on wood panel, in the Sanctuary, commissioned by Padre Demetrio Coello SDB and the Salesian community.

—Jesús Resucitado, acrylic painting on wood panel, in the Sanctuary, commissioned by Padre Demetrio Coello SDB and the Salesian community.

—Maria Auxiliadora, acrylic painting on wood panel, in the Sanctuary, commissioned by Padre Demetrio Coello SDB and the Salesian community.

San Jose with Niño Jesus —one of the works by A.Vonn Hartung in Catholic Churches — ***San José con Niño Jesús***

Catedral San Juan Bautista, Viejo San Juan, Puerto Rico

—Stations of the Resurrection, 14 paintings on wood panels, 24 x 24 inches, 2015, on loan from the artist, A.Vonn Hartung, to Mons Roberto Gonzalez Nieves, 2018 (NOTE: Giclee prints of these paintings are on display in several churches in Puerto Rico.)

—Carved Andas, (for processions) commissioned by Mons Roberto Gonzalez Nieves with liturgical consultant Hector Balvanera, 2015

—Misericordia, a painting on wood panel, 2015, commissioned by the Archbishop of San Juan, S.E.R. Monseñor Roberto González Nieves, for the arch above the main doors of Catedral San Juan Bautista in San Juan, Puerto Rico, to commemorate Pope Francis’ declared Extraordinary Jubilee Year of Mercy 2015-2016. Liturgical consultant Hector Balvanera.

Capilla María Auxiliadora, Carolina (rural), Puerto Rico

—Saint Joseph, Protector, carved statue, approximately 3 feet high, in Capilla, commissioned by Padre Rafael de Jesús Gonzalez Ayala CRL, 2017

—Beato Carlos Manuel Rodríguez Santiago, giclee print on canvas, Padre Rafael de Jesús Gonzalez Ayala CRL, 2017

Catedral Dulce Nombre de Jesús, Caguas, Puerto Rico

—Cordero, wood carving for Beato Carlos Manuel Rodriguez’s tomb, commissioned by Mons. Ruben Antonio Gonzalez Medina CMF, 2001

Parroquia Maria Madre de mi Señor, Guaynabo, Puerto Rico

—Before Birth: Mary at the Manger, acrylic painting on canvas, 24 x 36 inches, commissioned by Padre Jairo Granados, 2021

Before birth, Mary at the manger, painting by A.Vonn Hartung—one of the works by A.Vonn Hartung in Catholic Churches — ***Before Birth, Mary at the Manger***

Parroquia Corazón de Jesús, Guaynabo, Puerto Rico

—Fourteen Stations of the Cross, Giclee prints mounted on wood panel, commissioned by Padre Phillip (Felipe) Nuñez, 2020

— Fourteen Stations of the Resurrection, Giclee prints mounted on wood panel, commissioned by Padre Phillip (Felipe) Nuñez, 2020

Parroquia San Ignacio de Loyola, San Juan, Puerto Rico

—Replica of high relief ceramic sculpture St Benedict of Nursia, 32 x 11 x 3 inches, Forton Hydrocal (architectural stone), Rev. Ron Gonzales, SJ

—Replica of high relief ceramic sculpture, St Francis of Assisi, 32 x 11 x 3 inches, Forton Hydrocal (architectural stone), Rev. Ron Gonzales, SJ

—Replica of high relief ceramic sculpture, St Ignatius of Loyola, 32 x 11 x 3 inches, Forton Hydrocal (architectural stone), Rev. Ron Gonzales, SJ

—Our Lady of Guadalupe with San Juan Diego, oil painting on canvas, commissioned by Parroquia San Ignacio (9:30 Community) in San Juan, Puerto Rico, 2003

—Fourteen Stations of the Resurrection, giclee prints mounted on wood, Father Lawrence Searles SJ, 2018

"Apparition of Our Lady of Guadalupe with St. Juan Diego" painting by AVonnHartung — ***Our Lady of Guadalupe with San Juan Diego***

Salesianos Aibonito (capilla), Puerto Rico

—Ten Stations of the Resurrection, giclee prints on wood, commissioned by Padre Demetrio Coello SDB and the Salesian community.

—Bread and wine, wood carving for altar, commissioned by Padre Demetrio Coello SDB and the Salesian community.

Parroquia Santa Luisa de Marillac, Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico

—Fourteen Stations of the Resurrection, giclee prints on wood, Padre Tomás G. Gonzalez, 2020

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St. Joseph Church, New London, Connecticut

—Saint Dymphna, Life-size statue, Cedro odorata, Commissioned by Father Mark O’Donnell, 2021

St. Dymphna, carved life-size statue by A.Vonn Hartung—one of the works by A.Vonn Hartung in Catholic Churches — ***Saint Dymphna***

Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Gales Ferry, Connecticut

—Baptism, Life-size high relief wood sculpture, Linden wood, commissioned by Our Lady of Lourdes Church, circa 1983

—Last Supper, Life-size high relief wood sculpture, Linden wood, commissioned by Our Lady of Lourdes Church, circa 1983

—Carved Hymn board, 4 x 6 feet (opened), Honduran Mahogany, commissioned by Our Lady of Lourdes Church, circa 1983

Last Supper high relief wood sculpture by AVonnHartung (at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, Gales Ferry, Connecticut)—one of the works by A.Vonn Hartung in Catholic Churches — ***The Last Supper***

St. John Church, Montville, Connecticut

Crucified Christ, Life-size on a 10-foot cross, Linden Wood and Mahogany, commissioned by Monsignor Bronislaw Gadarowski, 1981

Agony of Crucifixion wood sculpture by A.Vonn Hartung for St. John's Catholic Church (Montville, Connecticut)—one of the works by A.Vonn Hartung in Catholic Churches — ***The Agony of Crucifixion***

St. Paul Church, Pensacola, Florida

Six Carved Saints (Paul, Peter, Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John), high relief wood sculptures, tropical cedar (12-inches x 33-inches x 3-inches) for the ambo, commissioned by Pastor Doug Halsema with liturgical consultant Steven Schloeder, 2008

The Holy Family, high relief wood sculpture, tropical cedar, 42 x 44 inches, commissioned by the Unanue Freeborg family, Miami, Florida, 2012

"Holy Family" is a high relief wood sculpture by AVonnHartung — ***The Holy Family***

Pontifical North American College, Vatican

Beato Carlos Manuel Rodriguez Santiago, painting on canvas, 34 x 26 inches, in the Hall of Saints, commissioned by Mons Roberto Gonzalez Nieves, Archbishop of San Juan, 2001

***Church murals, paintings, and sculpture***

AVonnHartung_interview-by-El-Visitante-Catholic-Newspaper-Puerto-Rico

Symbolist of the Sacred_NL Day article 1997

LosSurcoVitalesDeVonnHartung_el nuevo dia 1996

TheVitalFurrows ofVonnHartung_el nuevo dia 1996

FourCountyCatholic_span. trans.2004

NL Day article_Beato

Mural de la Fe

StaRosaMural_El nuevo dia 1997

Epiphany of the Miracle of the Eucharist

Posted 16 February, 2024 by Vonn

The Epiphany of the Miracle of the Eucharist

(Scroll down for Spanish text)

In this wood carving, “Epiphany of the Miracle of the Eucharist”, I express the Epiphany of the Miracle of the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ in the Holy Eucharist.

As is revealed to us concerning the Last Supper (Matthew 26:26-28)—
While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take and eat; this is my body.” Then he took a cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.

I carved Mary, Mother of Jesus, at the foot of the Cross in the moment of Epiphany of the Miracle of the Eucharist!

Mother Mary receiving the body and blood of Jesus, her son, into the form of the Holy Eucharist is, to me, the fulfillment of the Incarnation.

The original use of the word Epiphany is associated with the Divine Revelation in the visit of the Magi at the birth of our Lord, baby Jesus, at Bethlehem. This signifies that God came to Earth in human form for “the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel.” (Acts 9:15)

Photo by John Betancourt

Buy a giclee print of this wood carving

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Epifanía del Milagro de la Eucaristía

En esta talla de madera, “Epifanía del Milagro de la Eucaristía,” expreso la Epifanía del Milagro del Cuerpo y Sangre de Jesucristo en la Santísima Eucaristía.

Como se nos revela respecto de la Última Cena (Mateo 26:26-28)—

Mientras comían, Jesús tomó pan y lo bendijo. Luego lo partió y se lo dio a sus discípulos, diciéndoles:—Tomen y coman; esto es mi cuerpo. Después tomó una copa, dio gracias y se la dio a ellos diciéndoles:—Beban de ella todos ustedes. Esto es mi sangre del pacto que es derramada por muchos para el perdón de pecados.

¡He tallado a María, Madre de Jesús al pie de la Cruz en el momento de la Epifanía del Milagro de la Eucaristía!

La Madre María recibiendo el cuerpo y la sangre de Jesús, su hijo, en la forma de la Sagrada Eucaristía es, para mí, el cumplimiento de la Encarnación.

El uso original de la palabra Epifanía está asociado con la Revelación Divina en la visita de los Reyes Magos en el nacimiento de nuestro Señor, el niño Jesús en Belén. Esto significa que Dios vino a la Tierra en forma humana para “los gentiles y sus reyes y para el pueblo de Israel”. (Hechos 9:15)

Foto: John Betancourt

The Holy Family

Posted 28 December, 2023 by Vonn

“The Holy Family” is an illuminated high relief woodcarving in tropical cedar and mahogany measuring 42 by 44 inches.

(Scroll down for Spanish text)

It testifies to the revelations, dreams, miracles, and prophecy of the divine events leading up to and beyond the Incarnation of our Lord and Savior Christ Jesus. It is subtitled “The Faith of St. Joseph”, as it is in Faith that we hope and have our being in the triune God of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

"Holy Family" is a high relief wood sculpture by AVonnHartung for private collection — ***The Holy Family***

Like ancient Christian sacred art, whether found in the catacombs of Rome or icons from the 5th century, sacred Christian images are still made today as testimony to the Incarnation of God in our Lord Jesus Christ and the holiness of the saints in the history of Salvation.
“The Holy Family”, a wooden sculpture, represents Jesus, Mary, and Joseph in the temple environment of Luke chapter 2.

Central detail, Jesus, Mary and Joseph, of Holy Family wood sculpture by A.Vonn Hartung. — ***Jesus, Mary, Joseph***

Its composition is inspired by architectural elements, and its images and symbols are artistically constructed in Catholic churches, taken from the Sacred Liturgy, showing various miracles, revelations, and Prophecies from the Bible.

Mary’s awareness of who Jesus is, Jesus’ unity with his Father, and Joseph’s deep faith expressed through his closed eyes (John chapter 20 verse 29: “Blessed are those who have not seen and believed”), and with the lion and the lamb taken from the prophecy of Isaiah, chapter 11.

A panel from the wood carving "The Holy Family", Mary's direct encounter with the angel Gabriel at the Annunciation — ***The Annunciation***

Represented here is Mary’s direct encounter with the angel Gabriel at The Annunciation (Luke, chapter 1).

Jesus' first miracle, the Wedding at Cana, one of the carved panels in the wood sculpture "The Holy Family" by A.Vonn Hartung — ***Wedding at Cana***

Her understanding of Jesus’ divine power will be revealed in the first miracle at the wedding at Cana (John chapter 2).

The Gospel says little of St.Joseph. “It does not record even one word spoken by Joseph, the carpenter of Nazareth. And yet, even without words, he shows the depth of his faith, his greatness.” (Pope Saint John Paul II)

Joseph’s faith instead comes through dreams, first in the angelic council at the time of his marriage to Mary (Matthew chapter 1) and again in Bethlehem when the angel of the Lord warns him to flee to Egypt away from the murderous jealousy of King Herod (Matthew, chapter 2).

Depicted here is a scene (extra-biblical) that shows Jesus, as an adult and before beginning his ministry, in his family’s home and in their carpentry shop with the tools of his trade.

Sacred Christian Art is not achieved by the artist alone, but with the Holy Spirit and the believer who looks in contemplative prayer, beyond matter to transcendence.Some of this I know from my own interaction with works of Sacred Art and my personal prayerful struggle to bring the Word to life, to make visible what would otherwise remain as thought.

View the video “The Holy Family”

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“La Sagrada Familia” es una talla de madera en alto relieve iluminada en cedro tropical y caoba que mide 42 por 44 pulgadas.

Da testimonio de las revelaciones, sueños, milagros y profecías de los eventos divinos que condujeron a la encarnación de nuestro Señor y Salvador Cristo Jesús y más allá de ella. Se subtitula “La fe de San José”, porque es en la fe que esperamos y tenemos nuestro ser en el Dios trino del Padre, del Hijo y del Espíritu Santo.

Al igual que el antiguo arte sacro cristiano, ya sea el encontrado en las catacumbas de Roma o en iconos del siglo V, las imágenes sagradas cristianas aún se elaboran hoy como testimonio de la Encarnación de Dios en nuestro Señor Jesucristo y de la santidad de los santos en la historia de la Salvación.
«La Sagrada Familia», una escultura de madera, representa a Jesús, María y José en el entorno del templo del capítulo 2 de Lucas.

Holy Family detail — ***Jesús, María, y José***

Su composición se inspira en elementos arquitectónicos, imágenes y símbolos construidos artísticamente en las iglesias católicas, tomados de la Sagrada Liturgia, que muestran diversos milagros, revelaciones y profecías de la Biblia.

La conciencia de María de quién es Jesús, la unidad de Jesús con su Padre y la profunda fe de José, expresada a través de sus ojos cerrados (Juan capítulo 20, versículo 29: «Bienaventurados los que no vieron y creyeron»), y con el león y el cordero tomados de la profecía de Isaías, capítulo 11.

Aquí se representa el encuentro directo de María con el ángel Gabriel en la Anunciación (Lucas, capítulo 1).

Su comprensión del poder divino de Jesús se revelará en el primer milagro en las bodas de Caná (Juan capítulo 2).

El Evangelio dice poco de San José. No se registra ni una sola palabra de José, el carpintero de Nazaret. Y, sin embargo, incluso sin palabras, muestra la profundidad de su fe, su grandeza. (Papa San Juan Pablo II)

La fe de José, en cambio, se manifiesta a través de sueños, primero en el concilio angélico en el momento de su matrimonio con María (Mateo, capítulo 1) y de nuevo en Belén, cuando el ángel del Señor le advierte que huya a Egipto para huir de los celos asesinos del rey Herodes (Mateo, capítulo 2).

Se representa aquí una escena (extrabíblica) que muestra a Jesús, ya adulto y antes de comenzar su ministerio, en la casa de su familia y en su taller de carpintería con las herramientas de su oficio.

El Arte Sacro Cristiano no lo logra solo el artista, sino con el Espíritu Santo y el creyente que mira en oración contemplativa, más allá de la materia hacia la trascendencia. Algo de esto lo sé por mi propia interacción con obras de Arte Sacro y mi lucha personal de oración para dar vida a la Palabra, para hacer visible lo que de otra manera permanecería como pensamiento.

Saint Dymphna

Posted 12 August, 2021 by Vonn

LEER EN ESPAÑOL

St Dymphna

This life-size statue is my latest commission

She was a 7th-century Irish martyr saint.

I carved her in tropical cedar. Father Mark O’Donnell commissioned this statue for Saint Joseph’s Catholic Church in New London, Connecticut.

Watch the video

in which I describe the life of the saint and the process of carving the statue

A life-size statue of Saint Dymphna, patron of mental illness, carved in tropical cedar by A.VonnHartung for St. Joseph Church in New London Connecticut — ***Saint Dymphna***

How did this statue of Saint Dymphna come about?

Excerpts of a Message to his parishioners from Father Mark O’Donnell,

Pastor of St. Joseph Catholic Church

St. Dymphna, a saint for the ages

When I first arrived at St. Joseph Parish almost 10 years ago, I was approached by three parishioners who asked me, “Father, who is the patron saint for those afflicted with nervous, mental, and emotional illness?” Without pausing, I said, “Saint Dymphna”. After I told them about her story, they said to me that they would love to have a statue of her in the sanctuary because every family has been affected by mental and emotional illness. I said I would try to get a statue of her so that we could pray for her intercession and for healing for all those who suffer.

Well, it is almost 10 years later, and the need for St. Dymphna’s help could not be more urgent in the world we live in. The pandemic with COVID-19 has mentally and emotionally taken a toll on everyone’s health and well-being. It has tragically taken too many lives through the disease itself, and the lives of those who are addicted to drugs, and through some who desperately turned to suicide because they felt isolated and dehumanized.

When Neil Hartung, a wonderful parishioner, died unexpectedly on the Feast of the Immaculate Conception on December 8, 2019, I met his brother, Vonn Hartung, who is a renowned artist in Puerto Rico. Neil always spoke fondly of his brother, with a fraternal love. I spoke with Vonn and proposed that he conduct some research on the history of this great saint. He became enthralled with her courageous life and martyrdom. In every detail, he researched her life, and we agreed that a statue was indeed needed here in New London for everyone to pray for her intercession. I began sharing this news with the people who initially approached me 10 years ago, and they were entirely on board. Slowly, the word has spread that St. Dymphna was being created for St. Joseph Church in the St. Brendan the Navigator Catholic Community.

I commissioned Vonn Hartung to bring this great saint to life artistically.

He began with tropical cedar and glued the wood together to form a solid block. Slowly, he has been carving and creating a five-foot statue of St. Dymphna from a block of wood. We give thanks to God for this wonderful saint, who has been revered for ages, especially on this day. We hope St. Dymphna will arrive by September 1st of this year…Fr. Mark

Saint Dymphna_detail

Buy a giclee print of this statue detail

Who was Saint Dymphna?

“According to Catholic and Orthodox tradition, Dymphna was born in Ireland in the 7th century. Her father Damon was a petty king, her mother a devout Christian.

When Dymphna was 14 years old, she consecrated herself to Christ and took a vow of chastity. Shortly thereafter, her mother died. Damon had loved his wife deeply, and in the aftermath of her death his mental health sharply deteriorated. Eventually the king’s counsellors pressed him to remarry. Damon agreed, but only on the condition that his bride would be as beautiful as his deceased wife. After searching fruitlessly, Damon began to desire his daughter because of her strong resemblance to her mother.

When Dymphna learned of her father’s intentions, she swore to uphold her vows and fled his court along with her confessor Father Gerebernus, two trusted servants, and the king’s fool. Together they sailed towards the continent, eventually landing in what is present-day Belgium, where they took refuge in the town of Geel.

Her father tracks her down!

One tradition states that once settled in Geel, Dymphna built a hospice for the poor and sick of the region. However, it was through her wealth that her father would eventually ascertain her whereabouts, as some of the coins used enabled her father to trace them to Belgium. Damon sent his agents to pursue his daughter and her companions. Upon discovery of their hiding place, he travelled to Geel to recover his daughter. He ordered his soldiers to kill Gerebernus and tried to force Dymphna to return with him to Ireland, but she resisted. Furious, Damon drew his sword and struck off his daughter’s head. She was said to have been 15 years old when she died.

After Dymphna and Gerebernus died, the residents of Geel buried them in a nearby cave. Years later, they decided to move the remains to a more suitable location. Some of her remains are at the shrine to Dymphna in Massillon, Ohio, United States.

The most outstanding miracle is one that began in the thirteenth century and continues to this day.

In 1349, a church honoring St. Dymphna was built in Geel. By 1480, so many pilgrims were coming from all over Europe, seeking treatment for psychiatric disorders that the church housing for them was expanded. Soon, the sanctuary for those considered “mad” was again packed to overflowing, and the townspeople began taking them into their own homes.

A 500-year tradition that is studied and admired today

Thus began a tradition for the ongoing care of those with psychiatric conditions that has endured for over 500 years. Indeed, it is still studied and admired today. Moreover, Geel’s inhabitants have continued to take patients into their homes. In fact, they call them boarders, never patients, and treat them as ordinary and valuable members of the town. Correspondingly, the hosts treat them as members of their families. They work, most often in menial labor, and in return, they become part of the community. Some stay a few months, some for decades, and others for their entire lives. Eventually, at its peak in the 1930s, the town’s inhabitants housed over 4,000 ‘boarders’.”

St. Dymphna is the patron saint of mental illness and anxiety.

Her Feast Day is May 15

Prayer to Saint Dymphna

Lord, our God, you graciously chose St. Dymphna as patroness

of those afflicted with mental and nervous disorders.

She is thus an inspiration and a symbol of charity to the thousands who ask her intercession.
Please grant, Lord, through the prayers of this pure youthful martyr,

relief and consolation to all suffering such trials, and especially those for whom we pray.
(Mention those for whom you wish to pray).

We beg you, Lord, to hear the prayers of St. Dymphna on our behalf.

Grant all those for whom we pray patience in their sufferings

and resignation to your divine will.

Please fill them with hope and grant them the relief and cure they so much desire.
We ask this through Christ our Lord who suffered agony in the garden. Amen

Saint Michael Archangel

Posted 7 July, 2021 by Vonn

St Michael Archangel

(Scroll down for Spanish text)

I carved this icon in American Linden wood. It is an interpretation influenced by the tradition of Eastern Orthodox Iconography. Saint Michael the Archangel stares down the evil one, whom he has pinned with his staff. I carved the two fallen angels in the upper corners as they shrink away in shame from His divine power.

“Saint Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle. Be our protection against the wickedness and snares of the devil; May God rebuke him, we humbly pray; And do thou, O Prince of the Heavenly Host, by the power of God, thrust into hell Satan and all evil spirits who wander through the world for the ruin of souls. Amen.”

Buy a giclee print of this carving

San Miguel arcángel

Esculpí este icono en madera de tilo americano. Es una interpretación influenciada por la tradición de la iconografía ortodoxa oriental. San Miguel Arcángel mira fijamente al maligno que ha inmovilizado con su bastón. Esculpí en las esquinas superiores a los dos ángeles caídos mientras se alejaban avergonzados de Su poder divino.

San Miguel Arcángel, defiéndenos en la lucha. Sé nuestro amparo contra la perversidad y acechanzas del demonio. Que Dios manifieste sobre él su poder, es nuestra humilde súplica. Y tú, oh Príncipe de la Milicia Celestial, con el poder que Dios te ha conferido, arroja al infierno a Satanás, y a los demás espíritus malignos que vagan por el mundo para la perdición de las almas. Amén.

LEER MAS sobre la Oración a San Miguel

St. Joseph, Protector

Posted 25 February, 2018 by Vonn

St. Joseph, Protector

My most recent wood sculpture, carved during the period of Hurricanes Irma and Maria. Approximately 3 feet high, carved in Tropical Cedar because of the desired color and its resistance to termites here in Puerto Rico. For Capilla Maria Auxiliadora, a small chapel in rural Carolina, Puerto Rico.

I’ve carved St. Joseph as a protector and a traveler; a stand-up guy who was always looking out for his wife and child, ready to defend them along the way of life, which was full of dangers. He was a man of deep Faith who received his revelations through DREAMS: that Mary was the mother of God and that he should get out of Bethlehem and go to Egypt to escape the danger of Herod, who wanted to kill the newborn King. Of course, we know he was a carpenter and must have been a wonderful father.

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Mi escultura de madera más reciente, tallada durante la época de los huracanes Irma y María. Aproximadamente 3 pies de alto, tallado en Cedro Tropical por el color deseado y su resistencia a las termitas aquí en Puerto Rico. Para la Capilla María Auxiliadora, una pequeña capilla en la zona rural de Carolina, Puerto Rico.

He tallado a San José como protector y viajero; un hombre recto que siempre estaba pendiente de su esposa y su hijo, dispuesto a defenderlos a lo largo del camino de la vida, que estaba lleno de peligros. Era un hombre de profunda fe que recibió revelaciones a través de sueños: que María era la madre de Dios y que debía salir de Belén e ir a Egipto para escapar del peligro de Herodes, que quería matar al Rey recién nacido. Por supuesto, sabemos que era carpintero y debe haber sido un padre maravilloso.

St. Joseph, Protector

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Upcoming Classes by AVonnHartung

Posted 6 April, 2016 by Vonn

A.Vonn Hartung will be teaching two dynamic workshops this Summer (Woodcarving and Mosaics) at the Sacred Art Institute at St. Edmund’s Retreat on Enders Island in beautiful Mystic, Connecticut on Long Island Sound.

Aerial view of Enders Island, Mystic, Connecticut

July 24-29: Woodcarving
July 30-Aug 6: Mosaics

If you can make it, to start a new hobby or to continue more advanced study, this class is for you!

Although St. Edmund’s is a Catholic Order, it is ecumenical in spirit and outreach and all are welcome! Hope to see you there!

EndersIsland2 — One of the breathtaking views on this 11 acre island

“Described as a ‘little known gem’ this 11 acre island is surrounded by beautiful gardens framing breathtaking ocean vistas. Home to St. Edmund’s Retreat, there is a soulful tranquility to this place that seems to hang in the air with the ocean breezes. There are plenty of garden paths to walk and seaside benches to soak in the sun and saltwater air. It is a short trip into the picturesque coastal village of Stonington, CT., one of the last remaining authentic New England fishing villages…” (Assisi Institute)

St. John Apostle and Evangelist

Posted 27 December, 2014 by Vonn

(Scroll down for Spanish text)

In celebration of St. John Apostle and Evangelist

St. John Evangelist high relief wood sculpture by AVonnHartung for St. Paul's Catholic Church (Pensacola, Florida) — “**St. John Evangelist**” wood sculpture high relief by AVonnHartung for St. Paul’s Catholic Church (Pensacola, Florida)

Today is the Feast Day of St. John the Apostle and Evangelist.

He is shown here with St. Mary, whom he cared for after our Lord’s crucifixion (Jn 19:26, 27), at Ephesus in Turkey, the Isle of Patmos on the horizon, imprisoned and wrote Revelation.
He embraces his gospel to his heart, bringing to mind the Cross and Passion of our Lord. Significantly, his crossed arms define the shape of a chalice (the sacred blood) and an hourglass. Indeed, it reminds us that Christ is the Alpha and the Omega.

Above the saint flies the eagle, John’s symbol of vision and highest inspiration. Specifically, it carries away a serpent because, according to legend, Emperor Domitian once spiked the saint’s wine with poison. Subsequently and miraculously, it turned into a snake and slithered out of the cup.

High relief wood carvings of 6 saints by Vonn Hartung, in ambo at St. Paul's Catholic Church, Pensacola, Florida (photo by Steven Schloeder/Liturgical Environs PC) — High relief wood carvings of 6 saints by Vonn Hartung, in ambo at St. Paul’s Catholic Church, Pensacola, Florida
(photo by Steven Schloeder/Liturgical Environs PC)

This high relief wood sculpture, St. John Apostle and Evangelist is12-inches x 33-inches x 3-inches. It is one of six saints carved by A.Vonn Hartung. Pastor Doug Halsema commissioned them for the Ambo of St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Pensacola, Florida. Dr. Steven Schloeder of Liturgical Environs PC was the liturgical consultant.

The saints are all directed towards the center of the Ambo, as though they are again listening to and reliving the truth and reality of Christ Jesus, that because of them and through them, the gift of the Holy Spirit continues to live in us in the Liturgy of the Word.
A.Vonn-Hartung_six-saints-wood-carvings(1)

“Working with Vonn on the iconography and formal expression of the new ambo at St. Paul’s in Pensacola, Florida, was an enriching experience. Vonn brought forth a powerful new interpretation of a classical iconographic theme. The four Evangelists surrounding the figures of Saints Peter and Paul create a “sacra conversazione” of dialogue among themselves, with the Lord, who proclaims the Gospel, and with the congregation listening to the Lord proclaimed in the Gospel. The power of his figures that capture the spirit of the Evangelists and the Apostles of Rome can only come from deep contemplation and resonance with the subjects, and a profound mastery of his art.” —

Dr. Steven J. Schloeder, architect, author of Architecture in Communion (Ignatius Press)

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Español

“San Juan Evangelista“, Escultura en madera en alto relieve, obra de AVonn Hartung, para la Iglesia Católica, San Pablo (Pensacola, Florida).

Hoy es el Día de Fiesta de San Juan Apóstol y Evangelista

Aquí se muestra con Santa María a quien le cuidaba después de la crucifixión de nuestro Señor (Jn 19:26, 27) en Éfeso, Turquía. La isla de Patmos está en el horizonte, donde fue encarcelado y escribió el Apocalipsis. Él abraza a su Evangelio a su corazón que nos recuerda la Cruz y de la Pasión de Nuestro Señor. Ademá, sus brazos cruzados definen la forma de un cáliz (la sagrada sangre) y un reloj de arena. Eso nos recuerda que Cristo es el Alfa y la Omega.

Por encima del santo vuela el águila, símbolo la visión y la más alta inspiración de San Juan. Se lleva una serpiente. Cuenta la leyenda que el emperador Domiciano envenenó el vino del santo. Entonces milagrosamente se convirtió en una serpiente y se deslizó de la copa.

Esta escultura en madera de alto relieve (12 pulgadas x 33 pulgadas x 3 pulgadas) es uno de los seis santos tallados por A.Vonn Hartung para el ambón de la iglesia Católica de St. Paul en Pensacola, Florida, encargado por el Pastor Doug Halsema mediante Consultor Litúrgico Dr. Steven Schloeder de Liturgical Environs PC

High relief wood carvings of 6 saints by Vonn Hartung, in ambo at St. Paul’s Catholic Church, Pensacola, Florida
(photo by Steven Schloeder/Liturgical Environs PC)

Los santos están dirigidos hacia el centro del Ambón, como si estuvieran escuchando de nuevo y volviendo a vivir la verdad y la realidad de Cristo Jesús, que gracias a ellos a través de ellos el don del Espíritu Santo continúa viviendo en nosotros en la Liturgia de la Palabra.

“Trabajar con Vonn en la iconografía y la expresión formal del nuevo ambón de la iglesia de San Pablo en Pensacola, Florida, fue una experiencia enriquecedora. Vonn proyectó una nueva y poderosa interpretación de un tema iconográfico clásico. Los cuatro evangelistas que rodean las figuras de los santos Pedro y Pablo crean una “sacra conversazione” de diálogo entre ellos, con el Señor, que proclama el Evangelio, y con la congregación que escucha al Señor proclamado en el Evangelio. La fuerza de sus figuras, que capturan el espíritu de los evangelistas y los apóstoles de Roma, solo puede provenir de una profunda contemplación y conexión con los temas, y de un profundo dominio de su arte”. — Dr. Steven J. Schloeder, arquitecto, autor de Architecture in Communion (Ignatius Press)

St. Luke the Evangelist

Posted 18 October, 2014 by Vonn

(Scroll down for Spanish text)

Today, October 18th, is the Feast Day of St. Luke the Evangelist, patron saint of physicians and artists.

On this occasion, I pay special homage to him with this wood sculpture.

St. Luke high relief wood sculpture by AVonnHartung for St. Paul's Catholic Church (Pensacola, Florida) — ***St. Luke,*** high relief wood sculpture by AVonnHartung for St. Paul Catholic Church (Pensacola, Florida)

Artistically, I have placed St. Luke the Evangelist in the center of his mission. In addition, I have conveyed the sense of harmony that the gift of the Holy Spirit has brought him.

Luke was St. Paul‘s companion and biographer. Additionally, he authored Acts of the Apostles, a continuation of his gospel. By the style of his hair and garments, I indicate his Syrian gentile origin of Greek lineage. I have juxtaposed Luke to the winged ox, symbol of sacrifice, patient servitude, and strength. Additionally, I have portrayed the Parable of the Sower from his gospel (Lk 8:4-9).

The tempestuous backdrop witnesses to his shipwreck with Paul (Acts 27:13-42) and the many trials and tribulations he experienced struggling to keep pace with him on his missionary journeys. Luke holds his written witness in a book (gospel) that resembles a paperback, reflecting the dynamics of his perilous travels with Paul.

“Luke studied the life and words of Jesus with utmost care, knew and relied upon witnesses to the actual events–including Mary and St. John–and devoted some time to speaking with the women who had traveled with Jesus. The Gospel [of Luke] is thus especially notable for the respect and attention it pays to women in the Church, in contrast to the role of women both in Jewish and pagan society…Luke stresses the mercy of God, documenting the merciful acts of Christ…Luke also devoted much attention–more than his fellow evangelists–to the interior life of prayer…” (OSV’s Encyclopedia of Catholic History, by Matthew Bunson, D.Min.)

This high relief wood sculpture (12-inches x 33-inches x 3-inches) is one of the six saints carved by A.Vonn Hartung for the Ambo of St. Paul’s Church in Pensacola, Florida, commissioned by Pastor Doug Halsema through Liturgical Consultant Dr. Steven Schloeder of Liturgical Environs.

The saints are all directed towards the center of the Ambo, as though they are again listening to and reliving the truth and reality of Christ Jesus, that because of them and through them, the gift of the Holy Spirit continues to live in us in the Liturgy of the Word.

Here are large photos, including a bilingual description (Eng/Span) of the Ambo and all six saints

A.Vonn-Hartung_six-saints-wood-carvings(1)

Six Carved Saints is a video of the artist explaining the symbolism of the carvings.

Dr. Steven J. Schloeder, architect, author of Architecture in Communion (Ignatius Press)

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Español

Hoy, 18 de octubre, se celebra la festividad de San Lucas Evangelista, patrono de los médicos y artistas.

En esta ocasión le rindo un homenaje especial con esta escultura de madera.

San Lucas, escultura en madera de altorrelieve, de AVonn Hartung, para la Iglesia Católica, St Paul (Pensacola, Florida).

Artísticamente, he situado a San Lucas Evangelista en el centro de su misión. Además, he transmitido la sensación de armonía que le ha brindado el don del Espíritu Santo.

Lucas fue el compañero y biógrafo de San Pablo. Además, fue autor de los Hechos de los Apóstoles, una continuación de su evangelio. Por el estilo de su cabello y sus vestimentas, indico su origen gentil sirio de linaje griego. He yuxtapuesto a Lucas con el buey alado, símbolo de sacrificio, servidumbre paciente y fuerza. Además, he retratado la parábola del sembrador de su evangelio (Lc 8,4-9).

El tempestuoso telón de fondo da testimonio de su naufragio con Pablo (Hechos 27:13-42) y de las muchas pruebas y tribulaciones que experimentó mientras luchaba por seguir su ritmo en sus viajes misioneros. Lucas presenta su testimonio escrito en un libro (evangelio) que parece un libro de bolsillo, reflejando la dinámica de sus peligrosos viajes con Pablo.

“Lucas estudió la vida y las palabras de Jesús con sumo cuidado, conoció y se basó en testigos de los hechos —incluyendo a María y San Juan— y dedicó tiempo a hablar con las mujeres que habían viajado con Jesús. El Evangelio de Lucas es, por lo tanto, especialmente notable por el respeto y la atención que presta a las mujeres en la Iglesia, en contraste con el papel de la mujer tanto en la sociedad judía como en la pagana… Lucas enfatiza la misericordia de Dios, documentando los actos misericordiosos de Cristo… Lucas también dedicó mucha atención —más que sus compañeros evangelistas— a la vida interior de oración.”.. (Enciclopedia de Historia Católica de la OSV, por Matthew Bunson, D.Min.)

Esta escultura de madera en alto relieve (12 pulgadas x 33 pulgadas x 3 pulgadas) es uno de los seis santos tallados por A. Vonn Hartung para el ambón de la iglesia de San Pablo en Pensacola, Florida, encargado por el pastor Doug Halsema a través del consultor litúrgico Dr. Steven Schloeder de Liturgical Environs.

Tallas de madera en alto relieve de ***Seis Santos***, obra de Vonn Hartung, en el ambón de la Iglesia Católica de St. Paul, Pensacola, Florida (foto de Steven Schloeder/Liturgical Environs PC)

Los santos están todos dirigidos hacia el centro del Ambón, como si nuevamente escucharan y revivieran la verdad y la realidad de Cristo Jesús, que por ellos y a través de ellos, el don del Espíritu Santo continúa viviendo en nosotros en la Liturgia de la Palabra.

Here are large photos, including a bilingual description (Eng/Span) of the Ambo and all six saints

A.Vonn-Hartung_six-saints-wood-carvings(1)

Six Carved Saints es un vídeo del artista que explica el simbolismo de las tallas.

“Trabajar con Vonn en la iconografía y la expresión formal del nuevo ambón de la iglesia de San Pablo en Pensacola, Florida, fue una experiencia enriquecedora. Vonn creó una nueva y poderosa interpretación de un tema iconográfico clásico. Los cuatro evangelistas que rodean las figuras de los santos Pedro y Pablo crean una “sacra conversazione” de diálogo entre ellos, con el Señor, que proclama el Evangelio, y con la congregación que escucha al Señor proclamado en el Evangelio. La fuerza de sus figuras, que capturan el espíritu de los evangelistas y los apóstoles de Roma, solo puede provenir de una profunda contemplación y conexión con los temas, y de un profundo dominio de su arte”. —Dr. Steven J. Schloeder, arquitecto, autor de Architecture in Communion (Ignatius Press)

Works by A.Vonn Hartung

in Catholic Churches

Photo by John Betancourt

Epifanía del Milagro de la Eucaristía

Foto: John Betancourt

“The Holy Family” is an illuminated high relief woodcarving in tropical cedar and mahogany measuring 42 by 44 inches.

“La Sagrada Familia” es una talla de madera en alto relieve iluminada en cedro tropical y caoba que mide 42 por 44 pulgadas.

St Dymphna

This life-size statue is my latest commission

She was a 7th-century Irish martyr saint.

St. Dymphna, a saint for the ages

Her father tracks her down!

St. Dymphna is the patron saint of mental illness and anxiety.

READ MORE about the Prayer to Saint Michael

LEER MAS sobre la Oración a San Miguel

St. Joseph, Protector

A.Vonn Hartung will be teaching two dynamic workshops this Summer (Woodcarving and Mosaics) at the Sacred Art Institute at St. Edmund’s Retreat on Enders Island in beautiful Mystic, Connecticut on Long Island Sound.

July 24-29: Woodcarving July 30-Aug 6: Mosaics

In celebration of St. John Apostle and Evangelist

Today, October 18th, is the Feast Day of St. Luke the Evangelist, patron saint of physicians and artists.

This high relief wood sculpture (12-inches x 33-inches x 3-inches) is one of the six saints carved by A.Vonn Hartung for the Ambo of St. Paul’s Church in Pensacola, Florida, commissioned by Pastor Doug Halsema through Liturgical Consultant Dr. Steven Schloeder of Liturgical Environs.

Here are large photos, including a bilingual description (Eng/Span) of the Ambo and all six saints

Six Carved Saints is a video of the artist explaining the symbolism of the carvings.

Hoy, 18 de octubre, se celebra la festividad de San Lucas Evangelista, patrono de los médicos y artistas.

Here are large photos, including a bilingual description (Eng/Span) of the Ambo and all six saints

Six Carved Saints es un vídeo del artista que explica el simbolismo de las tallas.

July 24-29: Woodcarving
July 30-Aug 6: Mosaics