New Mural at St. Patrick’s Cathedral Celebrates Immigrant Heritage

NEW YORK, Sept. 18 – St. Patrick's Cathedral unveiled a monumental mural on Thursday that honors immigrants and their descendants. Created by artist Adam Cvijanovic, the 12-panel artwork is the largest ever commissioned for the iconic Neo-Gothic church located in Manhattan.

The mural, titled “What’s So Funny About Peace, Love, and Understanding,” showcases a diverse range of figures representing New York City’s immigrant communities. The installation comes amid a national climate of anti-immigrant sentiment and increased deportations.

Archbishop Timothy Dolan addressed the gathered reporters before the unveiling, highlighting the importance of this work for the Catholic Church. “Some have asked me, ‘Are you trying to make a statement about immigration?’ Surely, mainly that immigrants are children of God,” he said.

Cvijanovic, whose father immigrated from Serbia, expressed his gratitude and surprise at collaborating with Dolan on this significant project. He noted that despite the church’s support, he had creative freedom in his approach. “What has made me really happy is people coming in, feeling good about themselves, looking at this painting and saying, ‘I belong here,’” Cvijanovic stated.

The mural is funded entirely by private benefactors and will be dedicated during Mass on Sunday. The artwork reflects the Catholic Church’s longstanding advocacy for immigration reform amid recent political challenges.

Commissioned before Donald Trump’s election, the project gained renewed attention against the backdrop of his administration’s immigration policies. Dolan has publicly expressed concern over “blanket attacks” on immigrants and the impact of mass deportation.

Located between the entrance and exit of the cathedral, the mural is set to be seen by millions of tourists each year. Cvijanovic incorporated figures from various backgrounds, including law enforcement officers and the first Native American saint, Kateri Tekakwitha.

Very Reverend Enrique Salvo, born in Nicaragua, also spoke at the event. “Hopefully, [the mural is] an inspiration that we’re not only welcome but also invited to make a difference,” he said.