On this small but powerful section of an icon we see three important saints. From left to right are; Philip, Nicholas and John 'the Divine'. After he was called upon...
On this small but powerful section of an icon we see three important saints. From left to right are; Philip, Nicholas and John 'the Divine'. After he was called upon to be an apostle, Philip brought Nathanael to Jesus. According to the Gospel of John, when certain Greeks wanted to see Jesus they first applied to Philip for permission. (John xii, 20-22). Saint Nicholas was the fourth century bishop of Myra in Lycia (south-western Asia Minor). A much loved saint, many miracles are attributed to him and his veneration continues to this day, particularly as the patron saint of children. Saint John, apostle and evangelist, was a Galilean fisherman until called to follow Jesus. Because of his quick temper Jesus nicknamed he and his brother James, 'sons of thunder'. However, John was very close to Christ, Who chose him and Peter to be with Him on the occasion of His transfiguration and agony in Gethsemane. On the reverse is the Holy cross with the inscription, "King of Glory, Jesus Christ, Jesus Son of God."; surrounded by a delicate floral pattern. Though part of an icon, this single panel stands by itself as a fine work of art, and a direct expression of faith and private worship.