Using Public Domain Art in Church Worship: Inspiring Visuals for Bulletin Covers and Screens

Art has the power to communicate profound truths, evoke emotions, and connect us to God’s story in new ways. By incorporating public domain art into your church’s worship services—whether on a bulletin cover or displayed on the big screen—you can enrich the worship experience for your congregation. Below, we’ve highlighted three diverse pieces of art from different periods and styles, along with art education notes and reflection questions to help you integrate them meaningfully.

*Links are on each image

1. “The Good Shepherd” (early Christian art, 3rd-4th century)

Description: This simple, symbolic fresco from the Roman catacombs depicts Christ as the Good Shepherd, carrying a lamb on His shoulders. It was a favored image among early Christians, representing care, guidance, and salvation during times of persecution.

Art Education Notes:

• Early Christian art often focused on symbols rather than realistic depictions due to the influence of Roman styles and the need for subtlety in a persecuted faith.

• The Good Shepherd motif predates Christian use, originally representing kindness and benevolence in Greco-Roman culture, which Christians adapted to their theology.

Reflection Questions:

• How does the image of Christ as the Good Shepherd bring comfort or hope?

• What might the early Christians have felt when they saw this symbol?

• How does this art remind us of God’s care for us in challenging times?

2. “Starry Night Over the Rhône” by Vincent van Gogh (1888)

Description: Painted in vibrant blues and yellows, this post-Impressionist masterpiece captures the shimmering stars and reflections of light over the Rhône River in Arles. The painting evokes a sense of wonder and the infinite nature of God’s creation.

Art Education Notes:

• Van Gogh was deeply spiritual, often expressing his faith and longing for God through his art, even as he struggled with personal hardships.

• The painting’s swirling light reflects his fascination with the divine presence in nature and the cosmos.

Reflection Questions:

• How do the stars and reflections in this painting remind you of God’s majesty?

• What role does nature play in your understanding of God’s presence?

• How might this artwork encourage awe and gratitude in worship?

3. “The Prodigal Son” by Rembrandt van Rijn (1667-1669)

Description: This Baroque masterpiece depicts the climactic moment of Jesus’ parable, with the father embracing his wayward son. The use of light and shadow highlights themes of grace, forgiveness, and unconditional love.

Art Education Notes:

• Rembrandt’s use of chiaroscuro (contrast of light and dark) focuses attention on the emotional reunion, symbolizing God’s divine mercy.

• The details in the son’s tattered clothing and the father’s gentle expression convey a deeply personal and relatable narrative.

Reflection Questions:

• How does the father’s gesture of forgiveness resonate with your understanding of God’s grace?

• What emotions does this painting evoke as you reflect on your own journey of faith?

• How might this image inspire us to show compassion to others?

Incorporating public domain art like these examples into worship can provide a fresh perspective on biblical themes and stories. Whether used to illustrate God’s care, creation’s majesty, or the beauty of grace, these visual expressions help draw hearts and minds closer to God. Consider how art might become a meaningful part of your church’s worship, sparking inspiration and reflection in the hearts of your congregation.