“Saint Peter Attempting to Walk on Water” by François Boucher, (1766) is the featured image of the prayer card for the 2022 Eucharistic Congress.
A native of Paris, Boucher (1703-1770) is known for his idyllic and voluptuous paintings on classical themes, decorative allegories and pastoral scenes. He took inspiration from artists like Peter Paul Rubens. He was perhaps the most celebrated French painter and decorative artist of the 18th century.
This image depicts the miraculous event in the Gospel of Matthew (14:22-33) when the apostles were out on the Sea of Galilee:
Then he made the disciples get into the boat and precede him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowds. After doing so, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray. When it was evening he was there alone. Meanwhile the boat, already a few miles offshore, was being tossed about by the waves, for the wind was against it.
During the fourth watch of the night, he came toward them, walking on the sea. When the disciples saw him walking on the sea they were terrified. “It is a ghost,” they said, and they cried out in fear. At once Jesus spoke to them, “Take courage, it is I;do not be afraid.” Peter said to him in reply, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.” He said, “Come.” Peter got out of the boat and began to walk on the water toward Jesus. But when he saw how strong the wind was he became frightened; and, beginning to sink, he cried out, “Lord, save me!” Immediately Jesus stretched out his hand and caught him, and said to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” After they got into the boat, the wind died down. Those who were in the boat did him homage, saying, “Truly, you are the Son of God.” (Mt 14:22-33)
What should we make of this dramatic moment in Scripture? Read more at www.goeucharist.com.