Icons are written, not painted. They are believed to embody the Word, God, in physical form. Icons act as physical windows into Heaven and icon writing is a direct experience of the Divine.

St Catherine of Siena
Catherine of Siena: mystic, healer, peacemaker, church reformer. While writing her icon in an atmosphere of prayer, we will immerse ourselves in her writings, visions, prayers, and story. Come let this 15th century Doctor of the Church illuminate your spiritual path!

Process
Each participant will complete an icon of St. Catherine. After tracing the image on a gessoed panel, we'll apply "uncreated light," then add transparent layers of acrylic gouache, going from darkness into light in a progression symbolic of the spiritual journey. The process is user-friendly, appropriate for beginners as well as those with painting experience.

About the Iconographer: Donna Rathert
Donna Rathert has studied under master iconographers Peter Pearson

since 2000, and has taken classes from the Iconographic Arts Institute

and the Prosopon School of Iconography. A certified spiritual director,

she brings a contemplative approach to her leadership style.

Dates and Cost:

The retreat takes place over two consecutive weekends.

Fri., Nov 13 (7 - 9 PM), Sat. Nov 14 (9 – 9 PM), and Sun, Nov 15 (9AM – 1 PM); AND Fri., Nov 20 (7- 9 PM), Sat., Nov 21 (9 AM – 9PM), and

Sun., Nov 22 (9AM – 1 PM)

The cost for this retreat is $350 for commuters; $550 for overnighters.

[Price includes supplies, meals and refreshments.]

A non-refundable downpayment of $100 is due by October 23rd.

Each retreat must have a minimum of 5 participants. Limit is 10 persons. Call 708-482-5088 or email thewell@csjoseph.org for more information or to register. Or click HERE.

This icon writing retreat is appropriate for those new to this form of expression as well as those who have previously written icons. Artists and non-artists can engage in this meditative process and leave with a completed piece, ready to display. Prayer and reflection place the participant in a receptive frame of mind, open to explore a place beyond words through the beauty of the Christian symbolism of an icon. The remarkable spirit of Catherine of Siena has been selected for this retreat.

For information on Donna Rathert: www.reflectionministries.net
For information on Icon writing: www.panagia-icons.net