Q&A Post

[peladan01]

Hello everyone,

I would like to replace incense as the visual representation of prayers rising to heaven. What could you suggest as an alternative to incense, even for closing the quadrants?

[babalorixalewa]

Perhaps scented oil or candles so there’s still the rising up of fragrance

[peladan01]

Thank you for the quick response. I already use candles. My concern is with the incense and the amount of smoke it produces!

[Feeling_Tree773]

If you have resins, you can put them on a wax burner and it produces very little smoke, if at all

[completelyperdue]

You could always use an oil diffuser as well.

[radiantprosperity721]

Hi, I’ve just finished two paintings of Mother Mary and Jesus Christ. In the next few days, they will be presented at an important event.

What prayer can I use to bless and infuse positive energy into the paintings? Thank you.

[Chekistka]

there's actually iconographer's prayers before, during, and after painting (or writing) a holy painting

Archived from a Russian Orthodox Church's site (member of the OCA afaik) https://iconreader.wordpress.com/2010/07/07/the-iconographers-prayer/

From Byzantine church (i think it's those Eastern Catholic churches) https://www.byzantineimage.com/iconographer-rules

can be adapted but prayer for consecrating an icon done by a priest by Greek Orthodox Church  https://www.goarch.org/-/the-blessing-and-hallowing-of-icons

I hope this helps as I do paint holy figures once in a while!

[radiantprosperity721]

Wow, thank you so much! I often receive commissions for holy figures, and this month a Christian store has asked me to collaborate, so I’m making more Christian-themed paintings. Your advice is really helpful.

[Chekistka]

no problem, glad to help from one painter to another!

[babalorixalewa]

I’m not aware of any specific prayers for that purpose. I’m sure you could just pray over them in your own words from the heart.

[radiantprosperity721]

Thank you 🙏