The Circle of Love
The painting of the Holy Trinity by Russian artist Andrei Rublev is probably the best-known and best-loved icon from the Eastern Orthodox Church. Beginning with her own experience of gazing at the icon during convalescence from surgery, Ann Persson shares her journey of discovery through some of the historic and artistic traditions of icon-painting, including a midwinter pilgrimage to the Russian monastery for which Rublev's icon was originally commissioned.
She provides a detailed commentary on the image itself to draw out its full significance, and also reflects on the Bible story that inspired the icon. The Circle of Love is perfect introductory reading for all who are interested in exploring the use of icons in meditative prayer, and discovering something of the spiritual riches found in that tradition.
Ann Persson, with her husband Paul, used their former home, Highmoor Hall in Oxfordshire, as a retreat house and a centre for creativity. Now retired, she enjoys leading retreats and quiet days, often for BRF. She enjoys combining her love of God's word in the events that she leads.
From The Good Bookstall - July 2010
The Trinity - mystery beyond understanding! In this book Ann Persson gives us a pathway towards understanding it using Rublev's icon which shows three figures, understood as Father, Son and Holy Spirit, sitting round a table. Their eyes and the turn of their heads suggest constant movement around the circle, unity and community. The space at the front is an open invitation to us. In the history, making and use of icons, and meditating on the story which was the inspiration for this icon, Ann leads us to an understanding of the dynamism of the Trinity in which we have our place and role, and suggests ways of joining this dance of God. A practical and prayerful book it is a good introduction to icons and enables us to understand why St. Sergius, in whose honour it was painted, thought that contemplation of the Holy Trinity destroys all discord as people let their minds dwell on the unity that exists between the Trinity.
Reviewed by Celia Rees
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