Painting icons in prayer
For the glory of God and the life of the Church
Brother Thomas Iconographer
Welcome to my iconography. As a Capuchin Franciscan friar, I seek to live and serve in the spirit of Saint Francis — with simplicity, compassion, and devotion to Christ. My icons are not simply works of art, but prayers in color and line, created to draw the faithful closer to God.
The vision behind the brush
Every icon is a meeting place where heaven and earth touch. It is not just an image to be viewed, but a sacred encounter with the mystery of Christ, the tenderness of the Theotokos, and the living communion of saints who surround us. In the stillness of an icon, we are invited to see not only painted figures but the radiant presence of those who dwell in God. The icon draws us into a dialogue of the heart, reminding us that we are never alone but always held within the embrace of divine love and the fellowship of the Church.
I warmly invite you to spend time with a selection of my icons. Each one has been painted (written) in prayer, seeking to open a window to the invisible and to offer a space where God’s mystery may be encountered. As you gaze upon them, may they speak to you personally — offering consolation, stirring faith, and deepening your sense of connection with Christ and His saints. May these icons become for you not only works of beauty but also living companions on your journey with God.
Icons as communion
Icons are often described as windows, doors, and mirrors—mystical thresholds that reveal the divine reality hidden beneath the surface of our ordinary lives. They are not simply religious art but manifestations of another world: the icon opens a window into heaven, a door into mystery, and a mirror reflecting both God’s image and our own deepest calling. Through their silence, symbolism, and beauty, icons show us what cannot be captured by words or grasped by reason alone — the invisible presence of the divine that sustains and transfigures creation.
At the same time, icons are not meant to be admired from a distance; they are invitations. They draw us into communion, leading the heart to prayer and the soul to encounter with God. By contemplating an icon, we are not only reminded of holy realities but also drawn to participate in them. An icon bridges earth and heaven, human and divine, time and eternity, allowing us to step into a sacred space where God’s presence becomes tangible. In this way, icons fulfill their true purpose: to lead us into relationship, to awaken reverence, and to open our lives to the transforming light of God.
What students are saying
Linda
The icon retreats have enriched my life by helping me to integrate my creative self with my spiritual self; my excitement for art making has been renewed while enhancing my prayer life.
All this while having fun being with a lovely group of people in beautiful surroundings.
Claire
Brother Thomas, offers all the most current processes to deliver translucent icons that foster prayer and peace. He travels worldwide training himself in these most current design techniques.
Working side-by-side with those of whom are repairing war, torn sites. His class was a huge game changer in my growth as an Iconographer.
The retreat itself was incredibly relaxing and healing. The food was delicious and nutritious a treat during class and after class. I highly recommend this wonderful opportunity!
Janice
After years of painting (writing) icons, I found it refreshing to discover an icon retreat offered not far from my home.
Brother Thomas has a unique way of teaching the history and method of painting icons as well as addressing our spiritual needs.
To me, painting an icon is praying and Brother carefully guided us through both the icon process and spiritual exercises. The days were laid out to give us plenty of time for painting, time on our own and time to spend with God. I left the retreat with an icon of Christ that I really never thought I could do and a better understanding of my spiritual self. Painting an icon IS praying.
Kim
I have always been drawn to Icons. When I saw that I could sign up for an Iconography Retreat, I knew I wanted to take part.
Br. Thomas guided us every step of the way. I now have an Icon of Jesus in my prayer space at home and Iconography has become a beautiful part of my prayer life. I am looking forward to painting an Icon of an Angel in February.
Upcoming classes & retreats
Beginner Retreat: Angel
February 15-22, 2026
Capuchin Retreat Center
Washington, MI
Intermediate Retreat: TBD
July 5-11, 2026
Capuchin Retreat Center
Washington, MI