University of San Diego Unveils “Angels Unawares” Sculpture, Blessed by Bishop Pham

On December 18, International Migrants Day, the University of San Diego (USD) community, alongside Most Rev. Michael M. Pham, Bishop of San Diego, dedicated and blessed a new “Angels Unawares” sculpture in front of the Joan B. Kroc School of Peace Studies on USD’s campus.

The “Angels Unawares” sculpture is by the same artist, Timothy Schmalz, who made a similar piece that was commissioned by Pope Francis and placed in St. Peter’s Square in 2019. The sculpture depicts migrants and refugees from different cultural and racial backgrounds standing together on a boat. A pair of angel wings emerge from the middle of the sculpture, a reference to the Bible verse of “entertaining angels unawares” by showing acts of hospitality to strangers (Hebrews 13:2) 

The genesis of the sculpture began when James T. Harris III, president of the University of San Diego, saw the original “Angels Unawares” sculpture in St. Peter’s Square. Harris was inspired by its message, especially how it aligned with USD’s Catholic mission and values, and worked with his USD colleagues to see if the artist would be interested in designing a similar sculpture for USD. Thanks to an anonymous donor, and the artist’s willingness to recreate the piece, the 8 foot tall sculpture is now a reality on USD’s campus. 

“As the grandson of immigrants, this sculpture reminds me of how Biblical teachings encourage us to care for our most poor and vulnerable communities, including those who flee their countries in search of a better life. I hope this sculpture can provide our Torero community with feelings of compassion that transcend all borders and politics,” said James T. Harris III, DEd, president of the University of San Diego.

Bishop Pham helped welcome the sculpture to campus by presiding over a mass at USD’s Founder’s Chapel at 12:15 p.m.. Afterward, a dedication ceremony and blessing were held at 1 p.m. in front of the Kroc School, followed by a reception.