SAN DIEGO — Visitors to the University of San Diego should be prepared to encounter “Angels Unawares.”
The sculpture, by artist Timothy Schmalz, was blessed and dedicated by Bishop Michael Pham on Dec. 18, which is International Migrants Day.
“Angels Unawares” can be seen in front of USD’s Joan B. Kroc School of Peace Studies. A similar piece was commissioned by Pope Francis and placed in St. Peter’s Square in 2019.
The sculpture depicts migrants and refugees from different cultural and racial backgrounds standing together on a boat. A pair of angel wings emerges from the middle of the sculpture, a reference to a Bible verse about “entertaining angels unawares” by showing acts of hospitality to strangers (Heb 13:2).
Prior to the dedication ceremony, Bishop Pham celebrated the 12:15 p.m. Mass at USD’s Founders Chapel.
The genesis of the sculpture began when USD President James T. Harris III saw the original “Angels Unawares” sculpture in St. Peter’s Square. Harris was inspired by its message, especially how it aligned with USD’s Catholic mission and values, and worked with his USD colleagues to see if the artist would be interested in designing a similar sculpture for USD.
Thanks to an anonymous donor, and the artist’s willingness to recreate the piece, the 8-foot sculpture is now a reality on USD’s campus.
“As the grandson of immigrants, this sculpture reminds me of how Biblical teachings encourage us to care for our most poor and vulnerable communities, including those who flee their countries in search of a better life,” said Harris. “I hope this sculpture can provide our Torero community with feelings of compassion that transcend all borders and politics.”
