Hyde Park United Methodist

Visio Divina: Part 4 // Pastor Magrey deVega // March 15, 2026

Like many of the parables of Jesus, the story of the Prodigal Son is a study in contrast, between the waywardness of the younger son and the extravagant love of God. Embodying that contrast is the light and shadow that comes from beautiful stained glass, like the stunning windows of Cathedrale Saint-Etienne in Bourges, France. Its depiction of the parable of the prodigal is not only rich in imagery; it also renders imaginative aspects of the story as a way of inviting the viewer to see themselves in the narrative. For all the soulful repentance that Lent prompts, it is good to remember that ultimately, God is there to welcome us, hold us, and forgive us.    Reflection Questions:  1. What rooms of your past remain closed, waiting for God’s healing light? 2. Where are you chasing fulfillment outward instead of returning inward to God? 3. How might God expand the living space of your heart today? Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

Visio Divina: Part 3 // Pastor Justin LaRosa // March 8, 2026

In week three of Visio Divina, Pastor Justin LaRosa reflects on the story of Lazarus in John’s Gospel through Caravaggio’s powerful painting The Raising of Lazarus. The scene is full of shadow, grief, and tension, reminding us that resurrection often begins in the middle of pain, not after it disappears. Jesus meets Martha in protest, Mary in tears, and stands before the tomb calling Lazarus by name. This story asks what resurrection looks like in our lives right now. God does the raising, and the community helps unbind us as we step into the light. Reflection Questions: 1. Share an experience when you had a Mary/Martha moment. 2. What protects you from pain/suffering but also prevents Jesus from entering? 3. Where might God be inviting you to help unbind someone else? Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

Visio Divina: Part 2 // Pastor Magrey deVega // March 1, 2026

This first miracle by Jesus, recorded in John’s gospel, may seem like an odd insertion into the Lenten journey. But it is the moment when Jesus made his public debut as not just a stirring teacher, but as a miraculous healer who was concerned about the wellbeing of others. His response to his mother that his “hour has not yet come” is a foretelling of his crucifixion and resurrection, when he would be poured out as blood and water for the salvation of others. In that way, the turning of water into wine is a kind of foreshadowing of his ultimate miracle. The Renaissance painter Veronese renders this story in vivid detail, both immersing the viewer in the story and expanding the hospitality of God to others.   Reflection Questions: 1. When have you been to a family gathering where things didn’t turn out as hoped?  2. How is God calling you to “widen the table” and make room for people to experience God’s love?  3. How are you a character in the story of the wedding at Cana? Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

Finding Yourself at the Table | with Dr. Rose Trentinella

In this full-cut Visio Divina conversation, Magrey deVega and Dr. Rose Trentinella explore Tintoretto’s depiction of the Wedding at Cana. Originally created for a monastery dining hall, the artwork was meant to surround viewers as they shared their own meals. Even more compelling, art historians believe Tintoretto may have painted himself into the scene—not looking out at us, but participating in the feast. What does it mean for an artist to place himself inside the miracle? And what might it mean for us, as we practice a slower, more attentive way of seeing? This conversation invites us to consider what we notice and where we find ourselves within the story. Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

Made for God to See | with Dr. Rose Trentinella

In this full-cut interview from our Visio Divina Lenten series, Magrey deVega sits down with Dr. Rose Trentinella from the University of Tampa to explore two extraordinary works of Renaissance art: Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling and Ghiberti’s “Gates of Paradise.” From Michelangelo’s reluctant frustration at being forced to paint instead of sculpt, to the astonishing technical precision of fresco on a curved vault seventy feet overhead, this conversation uncovers the human struggle behind legendary genius. Then, turning to Florence’s gilded bronze baptistry doors, they examine the innovation, symbolism, and hidden details—down to tiny lizards no one on the ground would ever see—that reveal the mind of an artist working at the height of his craft. It’s a deeper look at calling, creativity, and the tension between assignment and passion. Special thanks to Dr. Trentinella, the Ferman family, and the University of Tampa.  Find out more and watch the full sermon at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps