John of Fiesole--better known as Fra Angelico--was a pioneering early Renaissance painter and a member of the Order of Preachers. Among his most popular works are those depicting mysteries of the rosary, most famously the Annunciation. Fra Angelico is a great example of how God wants to use all of our talents and abilities to spread the gospel. While he isn't remembered for preaching in the pulpit, Fra Angelico's art has beautifully spoken of God's grace to countless people, even centuries after his death. Biographers recount that he always began his artistic work with prayer, offering his labors to God. With Fra Angelico as an example, we should allow prayer to infuse our whole lives, not only while we are at church. When we offer our gifts back to God, He transforms them and we receive them again--even more beautiful than before.

Blessed Fra Angelico, pray for us!

Br. Benjamin Steary, OP