Praying with Icons

First published in 1997, Praying with Icons is widely recognized as a modern spiritual classic, both for readers familiar with this tradition as well as newcomers. Jim Forest, a convert to the Russian Orthodox Church, describes the history and theology behind icons, how they are made, and how they are used as a guide to prayer. Icons, he shows, are not simply illustrations or “art” in the usual sense, but aids to prayer and contemplation, windows on the divine. Drawing on a rich selection of classic and contemporary icons, he offers a series of meditative reflections on some of the most typical images, including Christ, Mary, and the saints.

This edition includes an additional unpublished chapter by Jim Forest, and a personal memoir by his widow, Nancy Forest, about the role that icons played in his life, their marriage, and his final illness.