Painted as the symbol of the Final Judgment. Jesus holds a look that is both welcoming and cold, both severe and gentle, both regal and humble.

This is the Final Judgment. We are judged on our lives and how well we searched for and loved God. How well we followed His commandments.

Jesus holds the book of life, open to the page saying “I am the way, the truth, and the life” with the cross with ICXC across the top and NIKA across the bottom meaning ‘Jesus Christ conquers’.

He raises his hand in blessing, fingers forming the letters ICXC, again, the Greek monogram for ‘Jesus’.

—Monica Skrzypczak, Artist Statement