Art as a Language of Faith – CCST Vancouver 10th Anniversary Art Exhibition

Artist: Rev. Dr. Samuel Ho
Calligraphy: 27" x 14"

Semi-cursive style of calligraphy. The content is “Nurturing the spirit through art, emphasizing nourishment and enrichment.”

Artist: Rev. Dr. Samuel Ho
Calligraphy: 27" x 14"

The pastor’s primary role is to lead people to Christ, not to oneself. And knowing the flock is the key. Pastoring is not just preaching—it’s knowing names, stories, and struggles of the flock (John 10:14). Every congregation has its unique culture, history, and pain. Pastors must listen deeply before leading decisively.

Artist: Rev. Dr. Samuel Ho
Calligraphy: 27" x 14"

“Cultivating a theological life, living out a mission-driven journey.”

Artist: Rev. Dr. Samuel Ho
Ink Wash with Light Color: 55" x 28"

The painting depicts a meditation on the last chapter of the Gospel of John, where the Lord Jesus appeared to His disciples and once again confirmed their calling. Although they had abandoned Him at times while following His way, the Lord fully knew their momentary weakness and fear. By repeating the miracle of their first calling—to be fishers of people—He enabled them to take up again their mission as faithful preachers. In healing Peter, He expressed His steadfast love (by taking the initiative to ask Peter) and entrusted him with the care of His sheep.

In the painting, the leaping fish symbolize the shepherd gathering the flock (the sheep), and the shepherd’s staff amidst the catch signifies the preacher’s dual ministry.

Artist: Rev. Dr. Samuel Ho
Ink Wash with Light Color: 20" x 75"

The beauty of the mountains and forests expresses God's wisdom in creation. High mountains serve as the most natural barrier, making the environment cool and warm; they are also the most natural water filters, as rainwater and mist flow down from the mountains, making the streams clear and sweet. The abundant red leaves, vibrant in color, uplift the spirit and refresh the mind. "The mountains may move and the hills be removed, but my steadfast love shall not depart from you, and my covenant of peace shall not be removed," says the Lord, who has compassion on you. (Isaiah 54:10)

Artist: Rev. Dr. Samuel Ho
Ink Wash with Light Color: 20" x 75"

In the busy daily life and work, people carry heavy mental burdens that affect their body, mind, and soul. But the grand mountains, changing clouds, and flowing water before the eyes—these misty, smoky images—can make the viewer feel as if they are in a dream, temporarily setting aside worldly troubles and refreshing the spirit. "Why do gentlemen love the mountains and waters? What is the purpose? The hills and gardens nurture simplicity, which is where they often dwell; the springs and rocks whistle proudly, which is their frequent delight; fishing and woodcutting provide secluded pleasure, which is their usual comfort; monkeys and cranes fly and call, which is their constant spectacle. The noise and shackles of the dusty world are what people usually detest." (Guo Xi [circa 1000–1087], "Lofty Messages of Forests and Streams: Instructions on Landscape Painting") 

Artist: Rev. Dr. Samuel Ho
Cursive Style of Calligraphy:18" x 68"

Watching the wind: Ancient farmers depended on weather patterns, but winds could signal unpredictable changes. If one waited for perfect conditions before sowing, the fields would never be planted.

Looking at the clouds: Similarly, harvest depended on weather timing. But if one anxiously stared at the possibility of rainstorms or drought, the harvest window could be easily missed.

Both images express the danger of over-caution and indecision. Fear of uncertain risks leads to inaction and fruitlessness.