Know Your Faith
Browse this section to discover more about the lives of the saints, the meaning and history of icons, and unique articles on the role of Christianity in shaping history and our culture.
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The Story of the Byzantine Crucifix
A "sermon in color," this elaborate image will enrich your understanding of the Crucifixion.Read More About The Story of the Byzantine Crucifix » -
Who was Jesus' Egyptian Friend?
This seventh-century Coptic icon eloquently presents Christ in a unique light - not as king, teacher, or even the beloved, but as our friend.Read More About Who was Jesus' Egyptian Friend? » -
The Prayer of Jesus and the Prayer Rope (Weaving Prayer Ropes)
In their quest to "pray without ceasing" Eastern Christians have prayed the Jesus Prayer using woolen rosaries (prayer ropes). Discover more about this tradition of prayer and the art of weaving prayer ropes.Read More About The Prayer of Jesus and the Prayer Rope (Weaving Prayer Ropes) » -
The History & Symbolism of Iconography
Who was the first iconographer and what were the first subjects for iconography? Learn about the birth and growth of this sacred art form, and the meaning and logic behind this stylized spiritual art.Read More About The History & Symbolism of Iconography » -
How an Icon is Painted
Follow the creation of Monastery Icons' image of Saint John the Baptist step by step, with description and photos.Read More About How an Icon is Painted » -
What did Jesus look like? A contemporary description
Artists, saints, and all the faithful have wondered through the centuries: What did Jesus look like? And what was it like to be around him?Read More About What did Jesus look like? A contemporary description » -
How an Icon is Created
To create this online video we photographed successive stages of the creation of a recent icon, a portrait of the Holy Family. This 1¾-minute video gives you a time-lapse overview of each stage as a window into heaven is opened before your eyes.Read More About How an Icon is Created » -
Lost, Found, and Crowned
The Story of the Most Famous Icon of the Virgin MaryRead More About Lost, Found, and Crowned » -
Who Wrote the Prayer of Saint Francis?
One of the most famous and beloved prayers, the Prayer of Saint Francis is attributed to...Saint Francis. But was he really the author?Read More About Who Wrote the Prayer of Saint Francis? » -
St Francis and the Animals
We've all seen pictures and figurines of Saint Francis with the animals. Read this article to discover the story behind each of these animals.Read More About St Francis and the Animals »