Select the image to view it in full. · © Sonhee Lim
Sonhee Lim · Sacred art
St. André Bessette
A welcome filled with hope
St. Augustine’s Seminary, Toronto
A young André extends his hand beyond the canvas, welcoming us. This portrait offers an image of humility, hospitality, and enduring hope.
Within the painting
A young face
Sonhee chose to portray André as a young novice, offering the seminarians of St. Augustine’s Seminary an image of humility and hope.
Saint Joseph close to his heart
The statue is modelled on the one at Saint Joseph’s Oratory. Held close to André’s heart, it expresses his devotion and trust in God.
An open hand
His left hand reaches toward the viewer, extending beyond the painted space. His welcome is addressed to us here and now.
A green background
Green expresses hope. The artist sees André’s faith amid poverty, illness, and difficulty as encouragement for anyone facing hardship.
An invitation to reflect
The gesture of welcome asks us to pause and receive the saint’s companionship. Weakness need not have the final word: faith opens a place for hope.