Dear Reverend Icon-Writer Mark,

Actually, we may learn more about the Angels in our tradition from the rules governing icon-writing of them than anywhere else.

The Copts believe in the Four Beasts or Angelic Beings that are closest to the Throne of God and even have a Feast in their honour.

In our Churches, these are sometimes likened to the four symbols of the Gospel writers.

There are also the 24 Beings before the Throne of God which some have said are Angels, and others have said are the 12 Apostles on the one hand, and the 12 children of Israel on the other, representing the two Testaments.

I accept and venerate them all, you name them, I want 'em in my private Calendar!!

There is the story from the life of the Holy French priest, Pere Lamy, who prayed the Rosary continuously and had many visions of Saints and Angels.

He was vesting for the Mass in his Sacristy when a demon appeared before him.

The priest began to heap some abuse on the demon for daring to enter the Church of God.

An angel then appeared to him and told him not to attack the demon but, if he really wanted to hurt him, to respect him for the Angelic family out of which he came. This reminds him of what he once was, and how low he has sunk.

One of the patrons of Icon-writers (in addition to St Luke, of course [Linked Image] ), is St Alypius of the Kyivan Caves Lavra.

Too tired to continue working, Alypius slept while an Angel completed his icon for him.

God bless,

Alex