Story by Dan Russo
The icon donated to the Cathedral of St. Raphael |
Jim Mendralla pictured with the icon |
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What Makes an Icon?
Icons are intended to be visual Scripture, this is why iconographers are said to "write" icons rather than paint them. They usually portray Jesus, an angel, or a saint. They are typically paintings, but can also be carved, metal, or mosaics. Icons have their own sort of language, such as symbols communicating information about who is portrayed in the icon. This was especially important in the early Church, when few could read.
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The figures in icons are not realistic on purpose, according to Father Garrett. Paint containing 23 karat gold is used to portray light. The goal is to give the subjects an appearance of being “illuminated from within.” The tradition of icons in both the Orthodox and Catholic churches is ancient and has a spiritual foundation.
“Each brush stroke is a prayer,” said Garrett. “From an Orthodox perspective, when you’re in the presence of an icon, it is a window of heaven. It goes both ways. It makes (the subject) present.”
Archbishop Jackels with Mendralla and icon |
What does the name "Raphael" mean?
The name of St. Raphael means "God Heals." St. Raphael is one of the seven Archangels who stand before the throne of God, and one of three identified by name in the Bible.
Father Dennis Quint (far right), pastor of St. Raphael & St. Patrick Parishes in Dubuque, blesses the new icon during a Mass at the cathedral September 29 on the feast day. Afterwards, the congregation gathered for a meal as part of its annual St. Raphael Day celebration.
Father Quint (center) concelebrates Mass at the cathedral September 29 with Msgr. Daniel Knepper (right). Deacons Paul Peckosh (back right) and Jim Luksetich (back left).
Photos by Dan Russo