“Images of Faith” will feature 25 different works of art, with context provided through narration and music. “ ‘Images of Faith’ will edify the community, which has always had a heart for art,” said Nativity Pastor Fr. Paul DeLuca.  He hopes the program will also inspire other artists to take up projects with themes tied to Judeo-Christian themes. That is the commonality of the artists who will participate in “Images of Faith,” each of whom has been asked to submit five works to exhibit:

• Bill Feinberg of Cincinnati launched a career as a sculptor in 2001 after nearly 35 years as a professor of sociology at the University of Cincinnati. He works in stone, wood, steel and alabaster. Nativity now owns his “Anguish of Abraham” sculpture, which he exhibited at the first Laetare Arts Series event in 2005. His work is pictured at www.feinberg-art.com.
• Fr. Jim Hasse, SJ, a member of the Claver Jesuit Community in South Cumminsville, has ministered to African-American Catholics in Chicago, Detroit, Columbus and Cincinnati for more than 40 years. He paints religious scenes from the Bible, often depicting people he knows. His work is posted at http://home.fuse.net/claver/prayergallery.html.
• Julie Lonneman focuses on fine art and illustration work, with themes of spirituality and social justice. Her work appears regularly in such magazines as America, Sojourners, and St. Anthony Messenger, as well as on the covers of books and newsletters. In 2009, Lonneman was the recipient of a City of Cincinnati Individual Artists Grant. A Cincinnati resident, her work is at www.blogger.com/profile/05204721517424641416.
• Nick Markell works and lives in St. Paul, Minn., where he runs Markell Studios. A one-time candidate for the priesthood, Markell instead settled on a career devoted to iconic imagery. His art – posted at www.markellstudios.com -- invites viewers to contemplate the deeper aspects of faith.
• Paula Wiggins produces fine art and illustrations, many of which depict spiritual images.  A graduate of the University of Cincinnati, who also attended the Art Academy of Cincinnati, Wiggins more recently has focused on layering images through collage, paint and drawing materials. A Cincinnati resident and member of Nativity, her work is posted at www.mpwiggins.com.

      The four local artists are expected to attend “Images of Faith.’’ Remarks about their work will be  presented by Nativity parishioner Teresa DeZarn Jackson, a veteran actress and vocalist.

     The Adagio Trio will round out the program. The 25-year-old group, which has cut  five CDs, will provide music on harp, cello and flute.

      Nativity, located at Ridge Avenue and Woodford Road in Pleasant Ridge, created the Laetare  Arts Series to mark the fourth Sunday of Lent, when Catholics celebrate the joy of the journey to  Easter. In prior years, the parish highlighted sculpture, classical music, painting, dance and  theater.  “Images of Faith” is a free, non-ticketed event open to all.  It begins at 7:00pm.