March 29, 2025

Presenters: Anathea Portier-Young

Dr. Anathea Portier-Young explores how sacred art, scripture, and sensory experience mediate divine encounter and ethical transformation. Drawing on the insights of mystic Evelyn Underhill and philosopher Helen Fielding, the talk examines three illuminations from The Saint John’s Bible: Prophets volume—Isaiah’s vision of God’s throne (Isaiah 6), Ezekiel’s chariot vision (Ezekiel 1), and the Suffering Servant poem (Isaiah 52:13–53:12). These artworks, rich in visual theology and prophetic symbolism, invite viewers to perceive God through sacred space, bodily experience, and artistic imagination. The lecture highlights how sacred art and divine encounter can awaken spiritual awareness, foster solidarity with the oppressed, and call us into God’s ongoing work of justice.

Sponsored by the Boston College Clough School of Theology and Ministry

Anathea Portier-Young, associate professor of Old Testament, Duke Divinity School