“It is impossible to write an icon that depicts only external appearance of the body; it must reflect unseen spiritual struggles and must radiate with Heavenly glory. That is something fully attainable by one who himself lives a spiritual life, and who understands and holds dear the lives of the saints. That is why in antiquity our iconographers always did so, and prepared themselves to do so through prayer and fasting. To many of the icons written in this way, the Lord imparted the power of working miracles. Of course, any icon that has been blessed should be accorded reverence, and should not be treated carelessly and disrespectfully. This is why we should avoid judging icons already found in churches, and instead should always strive toward the best. The main thing is to pay attention not so much to an icon’s outer beauty, as to its spirituality.”
– Printed in ‘Parish Life’)