Page 11 - Demo

AngelsAs with most people, when cemetery statues come to mind, I automatically think angels. While these heavenly visitors occasionally reside in secular burial grounds, they are more often located in those affiliated with churches. For, in our predominantly Christian culture, an angel is an obvious choice to stand%u2014eternally%u2014above a loved one%u2019s grave. I suspect that the majority were erected either as symbolic protectors%u2014guardian angels%u2014or as guides to lead the departed into the afterlife. In size, they range from awe-inspiring larger-than-life adult versions, to more diminutive childlike angels, to plump infantile cherubs. Most have been carved by highly skilled, professionally trained artisans of fine white marble or high-quality limestone. A few are more simply chiseled by local craftsmen. Although less sophisticated, these project a most appealing folkart quality. Not surprisingly, most of these winged beings possess angelic expressions, which is both beatific and reassuring. They succeed in filling us with hope, grace, and comfort.Cloverdale CemeteryPutnam Co. (343-05)St. Michael%u2019s CemeteryFranklin Co. (453-04)