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©2002/CNAC/MNAM/Reunion des Musees Nationaux/Art Resource, NY/ARS, NY/ADGAP, Paris

With calm assurance, Jesus walks to his death (see photo of ivory plaque) and is crucified (shown here). Throughout John’s passion narrative, Jesus is aware of what is going to happen and willingly accepts it. Before he dies on the cross, Jesus utters quietly, “It is finished.” He then “bowed his head and gave up his spirit” (John 19:30). Georges Rouault’s 1939 painting “Christ on the Cross” from the Pompidou Center in Paris captures this final moment. To the right of the cross, Mary is comforted by the beloved disciple, whom later tradition identifies as John the Evangelist.