Painted Church - St. Mary's Catholic Church

St. Mary's Catholic Church - Praha, Texas
courtesy of Jason Merlo Photography

I just rewatched Lilies of the Field, preparing for some upcoming movie group discussions. The beauty of the finished chapel made me suddenly think of the painted churches of Texas. And hence this picture which I'm sharing today.

(Scott and I discussed the movie on A Good Story is Hard to Find.)

Worth a Thousand Words: Immaculate Heart of Mary Church

Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in San Antonio was built in 1911 by the Claretians,
a community of priests and brothers devoted to the Blessed Virgin Mary.
It is one of the Painted Churches of Texas.
Photograph and caption by Jason Merlo, Merlo Photography

What are the painted churches of Texas?

Cross the threshold of these particular Texas churches and you'll encounter not a simple wooden interior but an unexpected profusion of color. Nearly every surface is covered with bright painting: exuberant murals radiate from the apse, elaborate foliage trails the walls, wooden columns and baseboards shine like polished marble in shades of green and gray. These are the Painted Churches of Texas.

Built by 19th century immigrants to this rough but promising territory, these churches transport the visitor back to a different era, a different way of life. ...

Read all about them here. Jason Merlo Photography has some stunning shots.