By Jennifer Mauro, Associate Editor
In anticipation of the Advent season, a presentation focusing on theology in Christian art and music is being held at Ocean County Community College, Toms River.
“The Art of Advent” will explore through a historical and philosophical lens the art and music associated with the beginning of the Christian Church year.
“It connects people with the roots of our culture and gives meaning to the season that’s approaching,” said Father Peter Stravinskas, assistant professor of humanities at the college and executive director of the Catholic Education Foundation, an organization dedicated to Catholic education.
Combining Latin, theology and philosophy, the two-part presentation will begin by focusing on the visual aspect of Advent by exploring the first coming of Christ (his Birth) and second (the Last Judgment) as represented in art across the centuries.
The second half of the program will feature music – specifically Gregorian chant – with an emphasis on the Latin language. Materials in both Latin and English will be provided.
Karin Gargone, instructor of music at the college, stressed the historical aspects of chant music and its roots in many world religions.
“A lot of people find interesting that these chants are still being used today and that they inspire modern-day compositions,” she said.
Father Stravinskas, who with Professor Marilyn Kralik, a lecturer in art history at the college, will be presenting at the event said the art and music seminar is a good way for people to expand their understanding of Advent and the time that precedes Christmas.
“It connects people with the roots of our culture and gives meaning to the season that’s approaching,” Father Stravinskas said. “It can be either a good refresher course [for those familiar with the Christian season] or a good way to enter into the proper spirit of Advent,” he said.
“The Art of Advent” will be held Nov. 30 in the Grunin Center, Room A117, Ocean County Community College, 1 College Dr., Toms River. The day will begin with “The Visual Art of Advent” from 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m., which will be co-presented by Professor Kralik and Father Stravinskas. “The Music of Advent” will follow from 12:30 to 1:45 p.m. and be presented by Father Stravinskas. Admission is free and open to the public. For information, contact Gargone at 732-255-0400, ext. 2109, kgargone@ocean.edu or visit www.ocean.edu.