The icon on our cover depicts the Dormition or Falling Asleep of the Virgin Mary. Behind her body, reposing in solemn state, stands the figure of Christ. In His hands He is holding the soul of His Mother. The Eastern-rite liturgy for the feast emphasizes that she who bore Christ and held Him in her arms is now carried by Him into eternal glory. The figures surrounding Mary are apostles; standing in front of the bier are St. Peter on the left and St. Paul on the right.

The bands of blue behind the figure of Christ indicate that He is surrounded by glory. Blue is seldom used in icons, but it also appears in the icon of Christ’s glorious Transfiguration.

The six-winged angelic figure over the head of Christ symbolizes the presence of the divine.

This icon is part of St. Vladimir’s Seminary Press Collection, 575 Scarsdale Road, Crestwood, New York 10707. Complete catalogue is available upon request.