Planning the annual Icon Workshop/Retreat at DaySpring is so exciting to me. I so look forward to this time of meditation, prayer and increased learning in iconography with friends at my favorite spot - DaySpring Episcopal conference center. For years, this place has held a special place in my heart for spiritual renewal. This year we will create an icon that will compliment last year's Archangel Michael icon with like patterns and color structure in Archangel Gabriel. Gabriel has been mentioned many times in the bible. First, in the Old Testament, Gabriel appears to the prophet Daniel to explain his visions. Speaking to Daniel while he is sleeping. After Gabriel's first visit, Daniel becomes tired and sick for days. Gabriel later visits Daniel again providing him with more insight and understanding in an answered prayer. In the New Testament, Gabriel, described as "an angel of the Lord," first appears to Zacharias, the father of John the Baptist. Gabriel tells him, "Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John. And thou shalt have joy and gladness; and many shall rejoice at his birth." Luke 1:13. After Elizabeth conceived and was six months pregnant, Gabriel appears again. The Book of Luke states he was sent from God to Nazareth to visit the virgin married to a man named Joseph. Gabriel said to Mary, "Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women." Luke 1:28. Gabriel is occasionally cited as the one who blows God's trumpet to indicate the Lord's return to Earth. However, the person designated with this task varies; different passages cite different people. The earliest known identification of Gabriel as the trumpet holder comes in 1455 represented in Byzantine art. Gabriel is recognized as the patron saint of messengers, telecommunication workers, and postal workers. His feast day is celebrated on September 29, along with St. Michael and St. Raphael. I hope you will join me.
