The Open Door

Unlike many books of meditations on icons, this book presents a unique opportunity for readers to visit an imaginary church and see icons "in action" throughout the year---to stand alongside worshipers for whom the use of icons is a natural part of their devotional lives. Reproductions of icons on the book jacket and in the inside text allow the reader to view the icons that would be found in a typical contemporary Eastern Orthodox or Eastern Catholic church, as Frederica Mathewes-Green explains their history and theology. Stories of saints and texts of the prayers appointed for the day enhance the devotional quality of the book. Anyone interested in understanding and "praying with" icons will benefit from this warmhearted, practical guide.

"Frederica Mathewes-Green is a marvelous storyteller and every searcher´s best friend." - Amy Dickinson, Time Magazine

"Religious icons aren´t just for Eastern Christians anymore . . . this ancient art form has made the ecumenical leap, becoming wildly popular among Roman Catholics and even some Protestants." - Publishers Weekly