Three images of the Virgin Mary holding the infant Jesus comprise the central theme of this fascinating icon. The inscription at the top reads, "Comfort me in my sorrows, the Holy Mother of God." While at bottom is written, "Lost souls are found. The Holy Mother of God." Eight saints line the outer edge on either side. Clockwise, (from upper left corner), they are Saints John the Baptist, Martyr Vasiley (Basil), John, Helena, George, Xenia and Saint Anthony. In the center a small but powerful image of the Archangel Michael faces us, with his wings only outlined in black to give the clever impression of lightness. The scene at the bottom right represents Joseph kneeling before the Virgin and Child. From his mouth comes the words, "How did this transpire?". And Mary replies, "For the sake of the sinners of the world." The plaque on the altar follows this sentiment, "People cannot live without the Word. Make it your everyday rule to pray to the Mother of God, with words like the voice of an angel, to make the Virgin glad." Against the lustrous background of gold, the wonderfully colorful figures burst with life and the life of the spirit, for the sake of the pious and those searching for a pious life.
- (PF.5201)
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