Praying with Icons

Images are powerful, yet we often forget their power because we are immersed in them on a daily basis. Images are used to grab our attention, mold our desires, and compel us to revisit their form and content, sometimes distracting us with the power of an addiction. St Bernard thought we could not help but resemble those images we returned to most often.

During this retreat, we will redirect our gaze to the icon and explore the spiritual power of this image. For many Christians, the icon is the first step in the ascent of the soul. Among other topics, we will discuss the meaning of iconology, the distinction between icons and religious art, and the Anglican view of icons as a window to a greater reality. Finally, we will have time to be silent and experience the icon’s presence. Please bring your questions. A light breakfast and lunch will be included.

About the Presenter: Bonnie Hoffman-Adams has been an iconographer for over twenty years and has found that painting icons has shaped her theological understanding as well as her prayer life. The school which she follows is the Prosopon School, which is the first American icon school. This school gives as much time if not more to iconology than technique.

Host or Publisher Church of the Good Shepherd Rosemont PA