THE INVITATION
Size:  22" x 28"
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The Invitation represents the event known as the Last Supper.  Although this depiction is not new to students of the Bible, it certainly is provocative to the casual observer of religion.   The importance of this event is at the core of many women’s equality issues in the Catholic Church.  The visual argument for exclusive male ordination is the famous Leonardo da Vinci painting entitled The Last Supper, which shows only men.  The silence of teaching by the Catholic Church simply allows this painting to stand true by default.  

Biblical references in support of the theory that women and children shared Jesus’ Last Supper revolve around the frequent use of two words: Passover and disciple.  If the event was a Passover meal, or in other words a feast, then by definition it was a family event, not just a male-only event.  More concrete evidence comes from the frequent use of the word “disciple” in three gospels.  By using this work, the authors chose an all-inclusive term meaning “one that is a professed follower of Christ.”  Disciple applies to more than just “the twelve.”

The principal theology of this painting is threefold:  to show that  (1) more than twelve men were present,  (2) women were present, and (3) children were present.   If Jesus used this event for the institution of the Eucharist, then certainly women were given the same sacrament as men.  Jesus said to all present, “Do this in memory of me.”  Community (love of neighbor) is something Jesus taught at all suppers.  Presumably the same command was also given at the first, second and subsequent suppers.

If the Last Supper was not a Passover meal but yet another type of gathering, the common point in all discussion is Jesus teaching the Eucharist.  The Eucharist, if nothing else, is a community event and is not taught to the exclusion of community.   The denial of women’s presence is alien to the very core of Jesus’ teachings. 

In her Book, Women of the Last supper “We Were There Too”, Millie N.S. gives a reflection on these women, their lives and connection to Jesus.  Reading Her monologs will help viewers understand this painting may even surprise them to learn who was the disciple to the disciples.

The painting depicts fourteen men,  seven women and Six children reclining around a “triclinium,” a three-sided table common at the time.  This table is simply the most economical use of space.  Jesus is seated second from the left as was custom.

William Shakespeare said this about truth:  first it is scorned, then it is fought, then it becomes self-evident.  I believe we are entering the third phase of Mr. Shakespeares’ saying.

I was excited to commission the painting of The Invitation by accomplished artist Jan Von Bokel.  I believe the visual image of da Vinci’s famous painting has influenced teachings about the equality of women in the Church for centuries.  Please understand that this painting was painted on the wall of a monastery dining hall in Milan—a good reason to omit women, especially if that’s what the bishop ordered.” The da Vinci painting is great art but incorrect theology.  Great art does not constitute correct theology.  I believe The Invitation captures the true ecumenism of The Last Supper and invite you to examine your own convictions.

 

 
Women of the Last Supper "We Were There Too" Have you ever wondered about most portrayals of the Lord's Last Supper being men only? During that family Passover meal held in a rooftop upper room, haven't you wondered where the women were? The women who were with Jesus and his twelve disciples just before and just after the Last Supper according to Gospel accounts? You're right to wonder, because a number of Jesus' women followers were likely there at the Last Supper. No doubt they prepared and served that Passover meal as they had countless other meals. In fact, various ancient artworks reflect this view-just not the one Leonardo da Vinci painted. Since his famous mural is on the wall of a monastery dining hall in Milan, it's no wonder he showed only twelve men disciples with Christ. But hasn't that perception dominated long enough? Isn't it time for a different, more realistic view of the Lord's Last Supper? I think so! And my answer follows decades of reading, research and reflection. As the gospel writers repeatedly remind us: "Many women followed Jesus, providing for Him from their substance…."(Matthew 27:55). These wee devout women of wealth and position who joyfully lived for their Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ - often sacrificing greatly, sometimes even their lives. May you be blessed as you read these Biblically based accounts of a different view of the Last Supper, as you ponder these historical fiction memoirs of the women disciples who likely were there too. Millie N.S. 2003   
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About the Author

About the Author of "Women of the Last Supper" Millie N.S. Each of the women portrayed in these monologs was an ordinary person transformed by the power of Jesus Christ. You, too, can experience this transformation, and live or die for the glory of God. These monologs have been performed for churches, libraries, and clubs - providing affirmation for both women and men followers of Christ today, as well as stirring great community interest and positive press coverage in local newspapers. Consider using these monologs for your church's Easter pageant, as a discussion text for your Sunday school class or small group, or for your own personal reflection, meditation and prayer. Growing up in China, the author saw how the Christian faith gave dignity and freedom to Chinese women. Seeing the dramatic improvement in the quality of women's lives under Christianity, Millie became an advocate for women's rights and dignity. Her passion has led her to write these memoirs that illuminate the important role women had in the life and ministry of Jesus. She is available to speak about the Biblical and historical significance of these monologs and to perform them. Contact her at MillieNS@aol.com or at PO Box 2445, Chesterton IN 47304