Joan L. Roccasalvo, C.S.J

Sister Joan L. Roccasalvo, C.S.J., writes from New York City. Her scholarly research focuses on the relationship between the arts, faith, and culture. She holds PhDs in musicology and in liturgical studies.

Articles by Joan L. Roccasalvo, C.S.J

Elegance Personified: The Black Madonna of Montserrat

Few places in the world resemble Montserrat in the Catalan region of Spain. There nature, culture, and faith are united as one. Spectacular saw-shaped mountains rise like a geological cathedral about 3,500 feet above sea level to embrace the Benedictine Abbey at Montserrat.

Called to Beauty through Iconography

Iconography proclaims the Christian faith in color and form. It is visual theology capable of moving people at their very core. Icons give pleasure and deep satisfaction, but by their very nature, they have been designed to mediate the presence of God and to call the Church to worship.