Painted for the front of a new tabernacle, or receptacle for the consecrated host and wine of the Eucharist, this “mandylion,” or “cloth” is one of the oldest of all icon images. In the most ancient tradition, it pictures a cloth onto which Jesus impressed the image of his face. The cloth had healing powers and was known and venerated in Constantinople for more than 1,000 years. Called “the icon not made by hands” it is an especially appropriate image for an earthly sanctuary housing Our Lord’s body and blood.

 

 

Tempera and gold leaf on wood; 8”x9”; 2017. Holy Cross Monastery, New York. Tabernacle and altar made by Jason E. Breen, Vermont. www.jasonebreen.com