From its original publication in 1997 Praying with Icons has been hailed as a modern spiritual classic, both for readers familiar with the tradition of icons as well as those who are newcomers to this sacred art. Jim Forest, a convert to the Russian Orthodox Church, describes the history and theology behind icons, how they are made, and how they are used as a guide to prayer.

As Forest shows, icons are not simply illustrations or “art” in the usual sense, but aids to prayer and contemplation, windows on the divine. Drawing on a rich selection of classic and contemporary icons, he offers a series of meditative reflections on some of the most typical subjects of icons, including Christ, Mary, and the saints.

This new edition includes a previously unpublished chapter by Jim Forest, and a personal memoir by his widow, Nancy Forest, about the role that icons played in his life, their marriage, and his final illness.