"The Voyage of Saint Brendan" art by nakedpastor David Hayward
Many years ago I read Frederick Buechner's delightful novel,
Brendan: A Novel
... his account of the life of
Saint Brendan (c. 484 – c. 577).
I immediately saw this image in my mind and sketched it out. So many years later and I finally draw the completed image.
The story of Brendan intrigues me because of his courage. He set sail looking for Paradise. Of course, his story is now surrounded with legend, but the gist of it remains: he took incredible risks to find his true home.
The creatures represent the dangers both seen and unseen. The moon signifies that we often have little if any light. The elements suggest that this is not going to be easy or comfortable. The sea gulls suggest that perhaps land is not too far off.
I told my friends at The Lasting Supper that it reminded me of them. They have left the comfort and security of their established homes... in belief, faith, religion, church, family, conformist behavior... you name it!... and are looking for a land they can call their own. It takes a lot of courage to face the risks and dangers that accompany such spiritual explorations and exploits.
... his account of the life of Saint Brendan (c. 484 – c. 577).
I immediately saw this image in my mind and sketched it out. So many years later and I finally draw the completed image.
The story of Brendan intrigues me because of his courage. He set sail looking for Paradise. Of course, his story is now surrounded with legend, but the gist of it remains: he took incredible risks to find his true home.
The creatures represent the dangers both seen and unseen. The moon signifies that we often have little if any light. The elements suggest that this is not going to be easy or comfortable. The sea gulls suggest that perhaps land is not too far off.
I told my friends at The Lasting Supper that it reminded me of them. They have left the comfort and security of their established homes... in belief, faith, religion, church, family, conformist behavior... you name it!... and are looking for a land they can call their own. It takes a lot of courage to face the risks and dangers that accompany such spiritual explorations and exploits.