The Art of Worship; Paintings, Prayers, and Readings for Meditation

In this beautifully illustrated book, the Reverend Nicholas Holtamvicar of London's internationally renowned church St Martin-in-the-Fieldspresents his favorite paintings from the National Gallery, London, alongside religious commentary, Bible quotes, prayers, and poetry. The selected illustrations encourage the reader to consider how artists distill the essence of Christian values and how works of art can motivate reflections on the Christian faith. Holtam's often highly personal observations inspire private prayer, meditation, and contemplation. Many works in the National Gallery feature Christian subjects, but Reverend Holtam shows how paintings from across the collection can be used for meditation and prayer. His more surprising picture choices include Edgar Degas's Miss La La at the Cirque Fernando, Vincent van Gogh's Long Grass with Butterflies, and J.M.W. Turner's The Fighting Temeraire.

Nicholas Holtam has been vicar of St Martin-in-the-Fields and the National Gallery London's parish priest since 1995. Richard Chartres is the Bishop of London.