the sculptures of artist
timothy paul schmalz
Timothy Paul Schmalz is a Canadian sculptor who casts life-sized artwork that highlights the spiritual concerns of today. His work has been installed in major cities across the globe, and we are proud to be home to three of his incredible works: "Homeless Jesus," "When I Was Hungry and Thirsty," and "Let the Oppressed Go Free."
We are proud to Host these works on our grounds
In 2021, "When I Was Hungry and Thirsty," one of the artist's sculptures from his “Matthew 25 Series,” was installed near the front entrance of the church on Delaware Street. This is one of five sculptures created by the artist to bring to life the scripture passage Matthew 25:31-46 in which Jesus uses the parable of “The Judgment of the Nations” to asks us to see him in every person we meet, especially in those who are suffering in need. Other statues are “When I was Naked, You Clothed Me," “When I was a Stranger you Visited Me," “When I was Sick” and “When I was in Prison."
The purpose of "Homeless Jesus" is simple, according to the artist: “The Homeless Jesus brings Jesus down off the cross and into a relatable human context that allows people to feel a greater closeness with and accessibility to Christ."
The sculpture was installed in 2015 and is located on the corner of Alabama and Vermont streets to raise awareness of homelessness.
Installed in July 2024, "Let the Oppressed Go Free" is a powerful bronze sculpture that depicts 50 figures representing various forms of human trafficking, including sex exploitation, forced labor, and debt bondage. As the sculpture represents, these horrors affect men, women and children of all ages, races and backgrounds.
