Hyde Park United Methodist

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

Visio Divina: Part 1 // Pastor Magrey deVega // February 22, 2026

The most famous fresco in the history of western art is in the Sistine Chapel, painted by Michelangelo. It depicts the stirring moment when God created humans, with God and Adam, arms outstretched, making contact. Just as moving is the stunning entryway doors to the Baptistery of St. John in Florence, Italy by Giberti, which depics the story of creation in incredible, gilded detail. The creation story is a fitting starting point in our Lenten journey, reminding us of our inherent nature as made in the image of God, and calling us to return to a full reflection of God’s character, as we reach out and touch the divine.    Reflection Questions: 1. How might you begin to read the Bible with multiple physical senses?  2. When has a work of art opened your eyes to wonder?  3. How do these two works of art give you deeper appreciation for the creation story?  Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

Why Can’t I Hear God? | Beyond the Sermon

In this final episode of Beyond the Sermon for the "Say Less" series, Justin LaRosa and Mat Hotho reflect on what it really looks like to listen for God’s will. The conversation explores centering prayer, silence, counseling, spiritual direction, and the courage it takes to say no to good things in order to say yes to what truly aligns with how God has wired you. Along the way, they wrestle with anxiety, alignment, repentance, and the slow work of recognizing God’s voice in the rearview mirror of life. Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps