Midshipmen at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) recently celebrated a significant moment when Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy called for the restoration of a historic painting of Jesus that had been relegated to a basement during the previous administration. This event has sparked a wave of enthusiasm among students and alumni, highlighting the painting’s deep-rooted significance in their lives and the academy’s history.
During the annual Battle Standard Dinner held on April 3, Duffy, a devout Roman Catholic, made a passionate appeal to bring the painting, titled "Christ on the Water," back to its original location. The painting, created in 1947 by merchant mariner Hunter Wood, depicts Jesus ministering to sailors in distress, a powerful symbol of hope and faith for many at the academy. Duffy’s remarks were met with raucous applause, with midshipmen expressing their support for the painting’s return.
"Can we bring Jesus up from the basement?" Duffy asked, urging the USMMA administration to reconsider the painting’s placement. His call to action resonated with the audience, resulting in the loudest applause of the night. Midshipmen reflected on how the painting had served as a source of inspiration and comfort during their challenging academic journeys. One midshipman shared that he had prayed under the image during moments of academic uncertainty, finding solace in its presence.
The painting’s relocation to the basement followed a 2023 letter from Mikey Weinstein, founder of the Military Religious Freedom Foundation, who demanded the removal of the painting, labeling it a "sectarian" display. This decision stirred controversy and prompted a petition from concerned students and alumni, as well as letters of support from prominent political figures, including Senator Ted Cruz and Representative Jim Banks.
Duffy’s visit comes amid ongoing discussions about the influence of political ideologies within military academies. Many midshipmen have voiced concerns about the perceived shift towards "woke" culture at institutions like the USMMA. The painting’s removal was seen by some as part of a broader trend of diminishing religious symbolism in public spaces.
Another midshipman emphasized the painting’s historical importance, noting that it had been a source of encouragement during Honor Board meetings, where students faced potential violations of the Honor Code. "People would look up to that painting and say, ‘Everything’s going to be alright. Jesus is looking after me,’" he recalled.
As the conversation around faith and public expression continues, Duffy’s remarks have reignited a sense of pride and hope among midshipmen. The painting of Jesus is not just a work of art; it represents a connection to faith, resilience, and the enduring spirit of those who serve in maritime professions.
In a world where the intersection of faith and public life often sparks debate, the call to restore "Christ on the Water" serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving spiritual symbols that inspire and uplift. As the USMMA community rallies together, the future of the painting remains uncertain, but its significance continues to resonate deeply within the hearts of those who call the academy home.
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