When visitors step into Our Lady of the Angels Hospital, they’re now greeted by more than just a welcoming space and smiling faces. They’re met with a powerful visual reminder of faith, healing and the enduring strength of compassion.
On March 10, 2025, Archbishop Gregory Aymond blessed “The Canticle of Praise,” a breathtaking new painting by artist Robert Puschautz, marking a significant moment for the hospital and its community.
A Scene of Tenderness and Strength
Positioned prominently in the hospital’s main lobby, “The Canticle of Praise” depicts a deeply moving scene: St. Clare of Assisi tenderly tending to the wounds of a frail and blind St. Francis. The setting, a lush garden filled with mint, lavender and roses, contrasts the weakness of the human body with the vitality of nature, symbolizing suffering transformed by charity and grace.
Puschautz captures St. Francis reclining, his face turned upward as he recites his Canticle of Praise, a prayer of gratitude and reverence for creation, even in the face of his own physical suffering. The painting radiates a sense of quiet strength, embodying the Franciscan values that guide Our Lady of the Angels’ mission of compassionate care.
“This painting is more than just art,” says Ralph Serpas, vice president and chief operating officer, Our Lady of the Angels Health. “It is a testament to faith, healing and the Franciscan values that continue to guide our ministry. St. Francis and St. Clare’s story reminds us of the power of compassion and care, values that our hospital strives to embody every day.”
More Than a Masterpiece: A Source of Comfort and Peace
The blessing ceremony brought together hospital leadership, board members, Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady Sisters, donors and health system executives to honor the painting’s unveiling.
E.J. Kuiper, president and chief executive officer, Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady Health System, joined Serpas, alongside Chuck Spicer, president of Our Lady of the Lake and Our Lady of the Angels Health, and Rafael Flores, director of mission, to commemorate this meaningful addition to the hospital’s space.
The painting’s presence is more than symbolic. It’s a reflection of the hospital’s mission to provide compassionate, faith-based care to all who enter. It serves as a source of inspiration, comfort and peace, reminding patients, families and caregivers that healing is not just a physical journey, but a spiritual one as well.
A Heartfelt Thanks to Our Generous Donors
This remarkable work of art was made possible thanks to the incredible generosity of donors and the support of the St. Louis IX Art Society. Their contributions allowed this vision to come to life, creating a lasting tribute to faith and healing for everyone who visits Our Lady of the Angels.
Our Mission Endures
“The Canticle of Praise” now stands as a beacon of hope and a reminder that, even in moments of suffering, compassion and faith endure. It reflects the care offered by the dedicated healthcare professionals who serve at Our Lady of the Angels, inspired by the same spirit of St. Francis and St. Clare.
