Theopolis is a cause of rejoicing, a vision of the restoration of Catholic culture and also of our culture at large. For more than fifty years, I have yearned to see such an initiative, one that has been strongly encouraged by the Church but has yet to come into being. Now, at last, it is being born, and in its comprehensive, articulate vision it promises to be a work of God that will bear immense good fruit for eternity. Maximum bravo!

For too long the Catholic arts in Canada have been in need of support and revitalization, and the Church, which is historically both the spiritual source and patron of the arts, is ready for a renaissance. Finally, we have an exciting and meticulous vision to encourage, network and sustain existing and emerging artists, and the Catholic Artist Society [Theopolis] initiative may well be a vehicle that brings about that renewal. I look forward to supporting the project in whatever way I can, and encourage others to get behind it as it emerges and grows as “something beautiful for God” and the artists he calls.

Pope John Paul II reminds us that artists are called to be leaven within culture, placing their gifts at the service of the common good. Theopolis offers a compelling and resourceful response to that call. With a mission that is both aspirational and practical, a rare and much-needed combination, it affirms that beauty is not a luxury but something essential to the flourishing of persons and of Canadian culture as a whole. At the same time, it provides concrete opportunities for artists to gather in meaningful solidarity, cultivating the support and friendship they so deeply need in order to place their art at the service of others.