Cross/Statue

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Icons of the Theotokos (God-bearer) and Christ Emmanuel are important for iconographic theology. The reason we are able to paint and venerate sacred images is because God took on our human flesh and to reveal himself to us, using Mary as his material instrument. On the basic level of human relationships, there is no question as to why for almost two thousand years these Madonna and Child images have been so popular in the hearts and minds of the faithful. Mary and the child Jesus touch cheek to cheek. One arm is wrapped around her neck while the other is grasping her veil. An unusual aspect of this icon is that instead of the usual gesture of adoration with one hand, Mary embraces the child with both hands. This emphasizes the intimate nature of their relationship. Though full of tenderness, the image is free of sentimentality. Jesus’ sober gaze is directed at us as he clings tightly to his mother for safety. Although Jesus is God, he is also human and rightly afraid of the suffering ..