Saint Raphael of Brooklyn Icon - S592

This icon of Saint Raphael of Brooklyn is from Saint Nicholas Antiochian Orthodox Cathedral in Brooklyn. It depicts Saint Raphael in his full ligturgical vestments. Surrounding him is a vine sprouting from the seeds of Orthodoxy he planted in North America. While the vine is growing, it is not yet in full bloom. This shows that there is still much missionary work to be done and that there are many people still thirsting for the Orthodox faith on this continent.

Saint Raphael was born in Beirut in 1860. He spent the first decades of his life traveling throughout the Middle East and Russia, gaining knowledge and experience as a clergyman. Father Raphael was called to America and established a parish in Brooklyn, serving Orthodox immigrants and encouraging their faith. He was later elevated to the episcopacy, becoming the first bishop consecrated in America. He continued his tireless work among the Orthodox faithful, along with evangelism efforts, until his repose in 1915. He is commemorated on February 27 and the first Saturday in November.

Icon courtesy of Saint Nicholas Antiochian Orthodox Cathedral in Brooklyn. A portion of the sale of this icon is given to the Cathedral to support their ministry.