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Holy Cross Monastery, West Park, New York Icon Writing Retreat, July 14-17, 2026


  • Holy Cross Monastery West Park New York USA (map)
Saint Francis and the Wolf Icon

We will be painting an icon of Saint Francis and the Wolf of Gubbio, using egg tempera on gessoed wood panel with gold leaf gilding, in the traditional Byzantine method. It’s a lovely and meaningful icon to paint, and you do not need to be an artist to paint an icon! I give step by step demonstrations and supply the drawing for the icon as well as all of the materials.

Retreat Schedule

Tuesday, July 14: ARRIVE anytime after 2PM. Dinner at 5:30

Wednesday- Thursday: 9:00-12:00 Studio Time. 2:00-5:00pm. Studio Time

Friday, Final painting session until 12:00, then Lunch at 12:30 before Departure

We are blessed to be able to participate in the Monks daily prayers and we fit into their schedule each day as a way to strengthen is spiritually while we work.

Class Description

This icon painting class is a unique blend of artistic discipline and spiritual tradition, welcoming participants of all skill levels into a space filled with quiet reverence and creativity.  Christine is a highly skilled and patient teacher who very much enjoys sharing the gift of icon writing with all levels of ability, from complete beginner to intermediate.  There’s always more to learn! Beginners and advanced students have much to offer each other in this creative, prayerful learning environment. This three day class takes inspiration from Byzantine icons in creating the icon of beloved Saint Francis and the Wolf of Gubbio Icon, using a gessoed icon board, egg tempera and gold leaf gilding.

Christine is able to simplify the complicated process of painting icons in the Byzantine style using egg tempera with gold leaf gilding. There will be step by step demonstrations and individual assistance as needed.

So come and join us for an unforgettable encounter with icon writing in a beautiful, prayerful setting of the monastery. Lodging, meals, and tuitions, and icon materials are all included in the price: $725. Call 845-384-6660 Ask for the Guest House to Register or email: guesthouse@hcmnet.org.

Comment from a recent icon retreat:

Thank you, Christine. Your icon class made me fall in love with icon painting! I hope to see you in the future!” Laura

“Christine, you are a gift to our (Anglican) stream”, Bishop Trevor Walters

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March 24

March 24-27, 2026, Icon writing retreat, Church of the Redeemer, 222 South Palm Ave., Sarasota.