Community West Foundation is pleased to announce the installation of Be Welcoming, a powerful bronze sculpture by internationally renowned artist Timothy Schmalz, at St. Augustine Catholic Church in Cleveland’s Tremont neighborhood.
The sculpture was generously gifted to Community West Foundation by an anonymous donor, with the intention of placing the piece in a setting where its message of compassion, hospitality, and human dignity could be fully embraced by the surrounding community. Inspired by Hebrews 13:2 — “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing so some have entertained angels without knowing it” — the artwork calls viewers to reflect on how we welcome and care for one another. After thoughtful consideration, Community West selected St. Augustine Catholic Church because of its central location in Tremont and its longstanding commitment to serving the needs of neighbors through faith-based outreach and community services.
“Be Welcoming is a profound reminder of our shared responsibility to see the humanity in one another,” said Marty Uhle, President and CEO of Community West Foundation. “By placing this sculpture at St. Augustine, we hope it will serve as a visible and lasting invitation to care for those who are most often overlooked.”
Be Welcoming depicts a cloaked figure seated on a bench, drawing viewers in with a message that challenges perceptions and invites reflection on how we treat one another—particularly those who are most vulnerable. Installed on the church grounds, the sculpture is intended to be accessible to parishioners, passersby, and community members alike.
Community West Foundation partnered with LAND Studio to help coordinate the installation, ensuring the sculpture was thoughtfully placed and integrated into the site. Favorable weather earlier this week allowed for the installation to take place shortly after the sculpture’s arrival.
Church leadership and parishioners have warmly welcomed the artwork, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to host a piece that aligns so closely with St. Augustine’s mission and values.
“We are deeply grateful to Community West Foundation and the anonymous donor for entrusting St. Augustine Parish with the gift of Be Welcoming,” said Bob Duda, Parish Life Coordinator at St. Augustine. “This sculpture beautifully reflects the heart of our parish and the Gospel call to recognize Christ in every person—especially those who are most often unseen or marginalized. Situated here in the heart of Tremont, it stands as a visible invitation to pause, reflect, and choose compassion. We are honored to host this sacred work of art and to share its message of dignity, welcome, and belonging with our neighbors and all who pass by.”
Plans are underway for a formal blessing of the sculpture, which will be open to parishioners and members of the broader community. Additional details, including the date and time of the blessing, will be shared once finalized.
Timothy Schmalz is the same artist behind Community West Foundation’s Matthew 25 Collection which includes Homeless Jesus, installed at St. Malachi Parish. The artwork reflects Community West’s ongoing commitment to using public art to inspire empathy, dignity, and care for the most vulnerable among us.
Community West Foundation is honored to steward this meaningful gift and to collaborate with partners who share a commitment to fostering dignity, welcome, and connection throughout Greater Cleveland.