In 2004, I collaborated with Sean Flaherty to create this icon for St. Thomas Aquinas’s Chapel in Charlottesville, Virginia. I did the craftsmanship; Sean did the painting.

I tried painting early in my career and learned that I didn’t think I would ever be good at it.

Painting is a complex craft. It involves choosing colors and brushes, mixing the medium, coordinating firing temperatures, in this case, acid etching, and having an innate ability to see and create. It is also very time-consuming; there isn’t much time for anything else.

Sean was one of the best and had my highest regard, not only as an artist but also as a human being.

One can not change an icon. In a way, it was nice not to have to go through all the challenges of creating an original work of art. Selecting the appropriate colors and applying our skills made this an unusual but pleasant experience.

I stop by every few years to sit in the pews and meditate. I’m especially fond of the significance of the trees in the outside yard surrounding Mary and Jesus. It is one of the best displays of both worlds I have ever witnessed.