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Images as the "Bible of the poor"

The idea of the Lenten Veils comes from an old Church custom that dates back to before the year 1000 AD. The veils then depicted images from the history of salvation in the Old and New Testaments. They covered the sacred events at the altar, but also told the biblical stories and presented them in pictures as a "poor people's Bible" to the congregation, most of whom were illiterate.

Art as a place of dialogue

Art is more than just a pretty show. It is an element in the organisation of communal life. It springs from the deepest essence of humanity and is based on a treasure of universally understandable patterns. This is why it can be understood universally. Art, culture and religion are places where utopias are designed and discussed. Artists can provide impetus and orientation.

The Misereor Lenten Veils as illustrations of faith

Over the decades, the Misereor Lenten Veils have become an integral part of Lent in many Christian churches around the world. With their impressive imagery, they bear witness to solidarity with the poor, the weak and the marginalised and are always a challenge to our Christianity and our lifestyle.

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The Misereor hunger cloths
The Misereor hunger cloths

Since 1976, Misereor has presented a hunger cloth every second year during Lent, designed by…

Since 1976, Misereor has presented a hunger cloth every second year during Lent, designed by committed artists from Africa, Latin America and Asia. Art should become a place of dialogue: The hunger cloths invite contemplation and provide insights into the lives and beliefs of people from cultures foreign to us. In this booklet you will find a presentation of all the hunger cloths that have been published with further information on the background to the works and the artists.

  • Publisher: Misereor
  • January 2019
  • Pages: 52
More information Less information

Since 1976, Misereor has presented a hunger cloth every second year during Lent, designed by committed artists from Africa, Latin America and Asia. Art should become a place of dialogue: The hunger cloths invite contemplation and provide insights into the lives and beliefs of people from cultures foreign to us. In this booklet you will find a presentation of all the hunger cloths that have been published with further information on the background to the works and the artists.

  • Publisher: Misereor
  • January 2019
  • Pages: 52
More information Less information
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Hunger cloth 2025-2026

Discover the new Misereor Lenten Veil "Dreaming together - Love in action" by Konstanze Trommer.

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