First, apologies that there is no week 1.
Recently I hosted a study of the book From Object to Icon, by Andrew Williams.
Andrew Williams is an Orthodox Christian, and a graduate of Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology, and Oxford University, and the host of the podcast "Finding the Freedom to Live in the Image of God."
Williams says, "The icon is central in our relationship with God; it is a source of healing and sanctification, and through it we can transcend the 'Things and facts of an objectivized and naturalized world.'" He also points out that veneration of an icon is a way of actively participating in the divine graces of God. Icons are not limited to just the wood and paint, but include each of us made in the image of God. Veneration, therefore, is not just kissing a painting, but is a way of seeing(really a way of living in) all of creation. As Christians, we ought to see all creation, especially its people, iconographically.
The counterpart is to see the world pornographically. This certainly includes sexual pornography, but is also in fact its own way of living, that being a way that fails both to see others and to allow ones self to be seen in the healing and transformative way that each of us need.
So then, in our study, we will explore the following big ideas:
What are the spiritual realities present in the icon, and in the incredibly powerful spiritual encounter that takes place every time we practice veneration?
What is pornography and what does it mean to see the world through this lens?
How ought we to see people?
How ought we allow ourselves to be seen, and why?
What is a proper response to pornography(sexual imagery, internet pornography, etc)?
For us in the care of children, how ought we to speak to our children about sex, pornography, the unforgiving risks of the internet, and the proper way to see themselves and others?
William's writing is beautiful and compelling, just as the icons which have so captivated his vision, and sustained our faith. I encourage you to join me in reading through his work, and through our conversations, hopefully connect more deeply with each other.
I hope you get to read along! Even if not, please let us know your thoughts in the comments!
The Outer Circle Inner Stillness is made possible by support from listeners, patrons, likes, and shares. To learn more about how to support the podcast, visit www.patreon.com/outercircle.
Rhys Pasimio can be found through www.patreon.com/outercircle and on instagram at @newpattrencounseling and through New Pattern Counseling at www.newpatterncounseling.com, and is always happy to dialogue with listeners bringing honest questions!
