The Painted Pulpit: Corita Kent, Visual Theology and the Practice of Preaching

by Fr. Dominic G. Ciriaco

In The Painted Pulpit, Dominic G. Ciriaco explores the intersection of art, theology, and preaching through the life and work of Corita Kent, the celebrated “Pop Art Nun.” Drawing on Scripture, the theology of beauty, and contemporary homiletics, Ciriaco demonstrates how Kent’s creative techniques can enrich the preacher’s imagination and transform proclamation into a vivid encounter with the Gospel. Blending theological reflection with practical guidance, this work invites preachers, teachers, and artists to rediscover visual theology as a powerful means of communicating the Word of God.

Full-Color Paperback: $19.95 | Audible: $14.99 | Kindle: $9.99

TESTIMONIALS

“Dominic Ciriaco demonstrates that great preaching is not only heard but also seen. By bringing Corita Kent’s artistic vision into dialogue with Catholic theology and homiletics, The Painted Pulpit offers a fresh and compelling resource for proclaiming the Gospel with creativity, beauty, and imagination.” —Dr. Sebastian Mahfood, OP, co-author with Ronda Chervin of Catholic Realism

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Rev. Dominic Ciriaco is a Roman Catholic priest who was ordained for the Archdiocese of Newark, New Jersey, on May 29, 1999. Fr. Ciriaco attended Caldwell University for his undergraduate work in social studies and education. He received a Master of Divinity and a Master of Arts in systematic theology from Immaculate Conception Seminary/Seton Hall University in South Orange, New Jersey. In 2023, Fr. Ciriaco completed his Doctor of Ministry in preaching from Aquinas Institute of Theology in St. Louis, Missouri. His dissertation focused on the interconnectedness between the visual arts and preaching.

Throughout his priestly ministry, Fr. Ciriaco has served as a theology teacher and campus minister in several archdiocesan high schools. He has served in several parishes as a parochial vicar and as a pastor. Fr. Ciriaco served for nine years with the Society of St. Sulpice in seminary formation work. Here he served at Theological College at the Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C., as a mentor, spiritual director, Vice Rector, and Rector. He also served on the faculty of St. Mary’s Seminary and University in Baltimore, Maryland, as Director of Preaching and Spirituality. Currently, he is the Director of the Preaching as Hospitality Formation Program at his alma mater, Immaculate Conception Seminary in South Orange, New Jersey. He is also an adjunct professor at Seton Hall University, South Orange, New Jersey, where he teaches courses on art and the Catholic Faith.

 

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