We have just returned from a wonderful, insightful long weekend to St Petersburg! 

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The weekend began with an engaging, informative talk by Art Historian Monica of Talking Art over a glass of Russian sparkling wine. She gave an introduction into the tragic life of Rembrandt and the development of his artistic style leading up to his painting the Return of the Prodigal Son towards the end of his life. 
The group was already anticipating experiencing the painting in real life after reading Henri Nouwen's " The Return of the Prodigal Son: A Story of Homecoming" and the information that Monica shared only added to the anticipation! 
The Winter Palace
The group spent a few hours taking in the painting of the Prodigal Son. They spent time picturing themselves as each character as painted by Rembrandt - the Father, the Older Son, the Younger Son and the onlooker. As Henri Nouwen wrote in his book, we all go through stages in our lives in which we can resonate with each of the different characters. The group had thought-provoking morning and evening reflections based on each of the characters which really enhanced the experience of the painting.
Rembrandt's Return of the Prodigal Son
St Petersburg is a considered Russia's Culture Capital with many important and impressive buildings, art galleries and churches. The group had a very interesting guided walking tour of the city including the Church of the Spilled Blood, St Isaac's Cathedral and the General Staff Building. The group also had a trip to the incredible Catherine Palace, the summer palace of the Tsars, in Pushkin just outside St Petersburg.
Mosaics inside the Church of the Spilled Blood
The Church of the Spilled Blood
The General Staff Building
On Sunday, the group's prayers were answered and they woke up to beautiful snow covering the city! They attended a Russian Orthodox service, had a tour of the Alexander Nevsky monastery and attended the Anglican English service at St Peter Patriarchate Church to support the local community. 
Feodorovsky Cathedral 
Iconostasis in Feodorovsky Cathedral
Walking around the Alexander Nevsky Monastery in the snow 
The Christmas decorations in St Petersburg and at the hotel were beautiful with lots of lights and Christmas spirit! The group had a wonderful trip full of world-class art, reflections, culture and fun! Rembrandt's painting of the Return of the Prodigal Son was brought to life by Monica and Henri Nouwen's book and the city was explored with the help of local guides. There is so much to see and do in St Petersburg that another trip will have to be planned!! 

Please carry on looking at some of the photos of the Christmas decorations and St Petersburg:
Kempinski Hotel Christmas Lights
The Singer House Lights
Kempinski Hotel Gingerbread House
Kempinski Hotel Moika 22
Kazan Cathedral
St Peter Patriarchate 
Moika River
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