San Diego, December 20, 2025
The University of San Diego celebrated International Migrants Day with the unveiling of ‘Angels Unawares’, an 8-foot-tall bronze sculpture by Timothy Schmalz. The artwork illustrates migrants and refugees aboard a raft, symbolizing inclusion and empathy. The dedication ceremony led by Bishop Michael M. Pham emphasized the importance of welcoming strangers and fostering community engagement. This installation serves as a continuing dialogue about migration and human dignity, echoing the university’s commitment to compassion and inclusivity.
San Diego, CA – The University of San Diego (USD) celebrated International Migrants Day by unveiling the bronze sculpture “Angels Unawares” on December 18, 2025. This significant 8-foot-tall artwork, crafted by Canadian artist Timothy Schmalz, illustrates a diverse group of migrants and refugees aboard a raft, with angel wings intertwined within the figures. This poignant sculpture serves as an ongoing reminder of the biblical exhortation to “be welcoming to strangers,” drawing inspiration from Hebrews 13:2.
The dedication ceremony was presided over by the Most Rev. Michael M. Pham, Bishop of San Diego, who blessed the sculpture amidst the USD community. The event featured a Mass and a blessing, encapsulating the university’s ongoing commitment to compassion and inclusivity. Events like this demonstrate how local institutions can foster a spirit of community engagement while prompting reflections on societal issues.
Jim Harris, the president of USD, expressed the sculpture’s profound importance, calling it a reminder to create spaces in our hearts and actions for immigrants, refugees, and the homeless. This initiative speaks to the broader narrative of engaging the community in discussions of empathy and human dignity, emphasizing how personal initiative and civic involvement can blossom in reaction to local needs.
First-year student Yuridia Ortega highlighted a personal connection to the artwork, having previously experienced the original version in Rome. Her sentiments reflect a growing awareness among students and the USD community about the significance of migration issues, enhancing discussions around empathy and acceptance on campus.
The sculpture is strategically placed in the Garden of the Sky, adjacent to the Joan B. Kroc School of Peace Studies, encouraging visitors and students to engage in daily reflection about its themes. Similar installations exist at institutions such as Boston College and The Catholic University of America, showcasing a model of shared values and collective engagement across educational landscapes.
Overall, the unveiling of “Angels Unawares” exemplifies how civic institutions can merge art and advocacy, inviting ongoing dialogue on the importance of inclusivity. Such installations serve not only as artistic expressions but also as catalysts for community reflection and individual action, invigorating local discussions about migration, empathy, and the human experience.
In conclusion, initiatives like this remind us all to look outward and create a more inclusive community. Through personal initiative and engagement, San Diegans can collectively foster an environment that is welcoming to all. Residents are encouraged to take part in local events and reflections that celebrate diversity and promote a deeper understanding of the immigrant experience in today’s society.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the “Angels Unawares” sculpture?
- The “Angels Unawares” sculpture is a bronze artwork by Canadian artist Timothy Schmalz, depicting a group of migrants and refugees from diverse backgrounds aboard a raft, with angel wings emerging from within the crowd. It serves as a reminder of the biblical teaching to “be welcoming to strangers,” inspired by Hebrews 13:2.
- Where is the sculpture located?
- The sculpture is installed in the Garden of the Sky near the entrance to the University of San Diego’s Joan B. Kroc School of Peace Studies.
- Who dedicated the sculpture?
- The dedication ceremony was led by Most Rev. Michael M. Pham, Bishop of San Diego, who blessed the sculpture in the presence of the USD community.
- What is the significance of the sculpture?
- The sculpture serves as a constant reminder to make space in our hearts, thoughts, and actions for the immigrant, the refugee, and the homeless.
- Are there other installations of this sculpture?
- Yes, similar installations can be found at Boston College, The Catholic University of America, and within the Archdiocese of Miami.
| Key Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Sculpture Title | Angels Unawares |
| Artist | Timothy Schmalz |
| Location | Garden of the Sky, University of San Diego |
| Dedication Date | December 18, 2025 |
| Inspiration | Hebrews 13:2 – “Be welcoming to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.” |
| Similar Installations | Boston College, The Catholic University of America, Archdiocese of Miami |
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