With the beginning of the new year, as we transitioned away from the year of St. Joseph, I was inspired to consider this year as an unofficial year of the Magi, where we spend the year contemplating the face of Jesus, starting in his infancy and working through his life. I was reminded of this when I was in Rome for Program of Church Management Executive Session last month and saw the picture above.
The picture is not very big and yet it communicates a lot of activity, mostly focused on the Christ-child. Balthasar looks straight at us, as if to invite us into adoration with his hands and gifts directed towards the child. The distractions on the right side of the painting could represent the earthly distractions that each of us face and that are all too common. And the peaceful center of the painting is based on the child, radiating to those who gaze up on him. I love how He reaches out to one of the Magi, receiving his gaze and attention.
I share this with you in the hopes that it might be a spiritual light through which we can continue to examine our work. In gazing upon the face of Jesus, we are gazing upon Truth. As you know, we aim to bring about transparency and accountability – both essential for truth – by teaching best management and business practices. And ultimately this work of exterior reform cannot be done without the interior reform of turning our gaze to Christ.
Pia de Solenni, SThD
Dr. de Solenni is President & Executive Director of the Global Institute of Church Management. She is a theologian, ethicist, and cultural analyst. She recently served as Chancellor of the Diocese of Orange, California, and Theological Advisor to the Bishop. Her work has appeared in various publications including The Wall Street Journal Europe, The Washington Post, National Catholic Reporter, Our Sunday Visitor, and National Review Online. She is also a consultant member of the Pontifical Academy of St. Thomas Aquinas.
