La Compañía de Jesús in Quito, Ecuador, is not merely a church but a monumental symbol that embodies the historical, architectural, and spiritual influences of Catholicism in South America. Known for its lavish baroque interior, the church stands as a unique testament to the legacy of the Jesuits in the region. Below are some fascinating facts about this baroque gem that shed light on its importance from various perspectives—be it architectural, historical, or religious.
The Church is Made Almost Entirely of Volcanic Stone
Geological Significance
One of the awe-inspiring aspects of La Compañía de Jesús is the fact that it is predominantly constructed from volcanic stone. This stone was sourced from the Pichincha Volcano, which looms over Quito. The utilization of indigenous material signifies an underlying connection between the church and the geological profile of Ecuador.
Theological Relevance
The idea of using stone, especially one that is native to the region, has profound theological significance within Catholic tradition. The New Testament refers to Jesus Christ as the “cornerstone” on which the Church is built: “The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone” (Matthew 21:42, ESV). In this manner, the choice of volcanic stone implicitly echoes this Biblical notion, linking the church’s very structure to the foundational teachings of Christianity.
160 Years in the Making: A Monument to Perseverance
Historical Context
Building La Compañía de Jesús was no small feat. Construction began in 1605 and was not fully completed until 1765. The 160-year long effort required the dedication of multiple generations of artisans, architects, and Jesuit missionaries.
Theological Insight
The dedication to complete the church can be seen as an embodiment of the Catholic virtue of perseverance. The Catechism of the Catholic Church speaks to the importance of perseverance in maintaining the faith, “The virtue of perseverance is ‘the assured knowledge that God calls us to Himself'” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1821). The multi-generational effort in building the church can be seen as a physical manifestation of this enduring call to faith.
The “Tree of Jesse” Stands as a Theological and Artistic Marvel
Artistic Excellence
One of the most intricate artworks within La Compañía is the “Tree of Jesse,” a wooden carving displaying the genealogy of Christ. The art piece is a sublime blend of craftsmanship and theological richness, capturing the lineage of Christ in a manner that is both informative and aesthetically pleasing.
Scriptural and Theological Context
The “Tree of Jesse” has its roots in the Old Testament, notably in the Book of Isaiah: “A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse; from his roots, a Branch will bear fruit” (Isaiah 11:1, NIV). The representation of the genealogy of Christ, through Jesse, is an artistic incarnation of this scriptural promise, reinforcing the continuity between the Old and New Testaments in Christian belief.
A Sanctuary of Gold: The Use of Gold Leaf
Opulence and Symbolism
The interior of La Compañía is sheathed in gold leaf, creating an atmosphere of celestial grandeur. While the gold leaf undoubtedly represents wealth and opulence, it also carries theological undertones.
Theological Relevance
Gold, within the Catholic liturgical context, is seen as symbolic of divine illumination. The use of gold is not simply an aesthetic choice but a theological one, intended to inspire the faithful to consider the divine. “The glory of God gives it light, and its lamp is the Lamb” (Revelation 21:23, NRSV). The gold, in this sense, can be understood as a reflection of the divine light of Christ.
Jesuit Influence: A True Testament to Ignatian Spirituality
Historical and Religious Context
The Jesuits, a Catholic religious order founded by Ignatius of Loyola, were instrumental in the construction and conceptualization of La Compañía. Their influence is palpable not only in the architectural intricacies but also in the overall spiritual atmosphere of the church.
Ignatian Theology
The design elements within La Compañía embody key aspects of Ignatian spirituality, such as “finding God in all things.” This foundational Jesuit belief aligns with the extravagant beauty of the church, encouraging those who enter to find God not just in the liturgy but also in the artistic and architectural magnificence.
In summary, La Compañía de Jesús in Quito serves as an iconic landmark that brilliantly synthesizes architectural mastery with profound Catholic theology and history. Every stone, carving, and leaf of gold bears testament to centuries of faith, making this church not merely a stop on a tourist itinerary but a pilgrimage destination in its own right.