“PARACLETE”’

By Winston Pike

It may be that since the day the first savage chieftain lifted a battle standard with a carved eagle upon it, man has identified with the power of birds to express his ideals. Birds of prey were doubtless first to be glorified because they epitomized warlike power and swiftness. Yet in time, the Bible tells us, a bird, the dove, was chosen by the Almighty, not to symbolize heavenly power, but the astonishing, gentle, and harmless love of God to man. John the Baptist saw the “Paraclete”, or divine “Comforter” alighting on Jesus after he baptized Christ in the Jordan River.
Bur how does one sculpt an image of God? “Paraclete” is a composite of theological guidelines. First, being Divine Spirit, God is invisible. I thus chose to cover an armature of barbed wire with a myriad flicks of plaster. This suggested the fiery permeability of a God whom scripture says is “a consuming fire” (Hebrews 12:29). Second, because the “Paraclete” is omniscient, the wings of this dove-like being create an oval that encircles even the universe. Third, because the Holy Spirit is perfectly just and holy, my image, (except for the head) is bilaterally symmetrical. Like the courtroom “Scales of Justice”, there is no imbalance, or inequity in One who is “of purer eyes than to behold evil”(Habakkuk 1:13). Like other symbols of the Divine, The Cross and  Menorah, this sculpture is designed to be an icon, a religious symbol. As such, we see a cross in “Paraclete’s” body and shoulders, and the upward curving arcs of the Menorah in its wings. (3 pictures)
The only exception to such symmetry is the dove-like head (picture) which turns in every direction, especially into the depths of the motives of the human heart. To whom should this religious icon most appeal? To churches who most respect the role of the Holy Spirit in guidance, purification, and comfort of believers.
“Paraclete” was indeed placed in the expansive foyer of the largest Nazarene church in Oregon for several months. The congregation, and especially the pastor, was in awe of how it cast a mood of reverence over that space. I believe many other congregations, including Catholic churches could be similarly blessed by this unique religious work.
The best locations for display indoors may be on a high pedestal, or even fastened without base behind the pulpit and choir. In a church foyer direct lighting will set ablaze the polished bronze.  For permanent display outdoors, “Paraclete” is available in polished stainless steel. (picture)
Should interest warrant it, “Paraclete” can be made available in smaller or larger sizes.

Status: Ready to be cast in bronze

Title: “PARACLETE”