Saint Irene the Great Martyr

The Story Behind This Icon: Saint Irene, born with the name Penelope to a pagan ruler named Licinius, lived most of her early life locked in a tower away from society. This was because her father, like many others, irrationally feared Christians because of lies spread by those opposed to Christ, and did not want her to be exposed to Christianity. Nevertheless, Penelope's tutor Apellian, a secret Christian, educated her in the ways of the faith and she embraced Christ. When Penelope reached adolescence, her parents began to think about marriage for the young woman. Around this time, an amazing event happened: a dove carrying an olive branch, an eagle carrying flowers and a raven carrying a snake all swooped into Penelope's tower and deposited their items on a table. Apellian explained that the dove signified her education, and the olive branch stood for the grace of God which is received in Baptism. The eagle with the wreath of flowers represented success in her future life. The raven and the snake foretold her future suffering and sorrow. At this point Penelope was baptized a Christian with the name Irene (meaning "peace") and betrothed herself to Christ, our Heavenly Bridegroom. Irene eventually underwent great suffering for her faith by various pagan rulers, ultimately converting thousands of pagans, including her parents, to the One True Faith. Her trials, symbolized by the raven carrying the snake, lasted years and Irene persevered through these tribulations without complaint. Saint Irene is commemorated on May 5 of each year. *** This icon is made of solid, natural limewood (Tilia) that has been prepared by hand using traditional methods and organic materials. The background consists of 22 Karat gold leaves that were meticulously applied by hand, piece by piece.   All of our icons are reproduced according to museum print standards and are authentic replicas of Holy Icons from Mount Athos and elsewhere.  Learn more about how our Holy Icons are made here.