Description

The Communion of the Apostles (or He Theia Koinonia) is a traditional Eastern Orthodox and Byzantine icon that depicts Jesus Christ functioning as the Great High Priest at a columned altar. In a striking display of visual duality, Christ is often shown twice within the same composition: on the left, He distributes the bread (His Body) to a group of disciples led by St. Peter, while on the right, He offers the chalice of wine (His Blood) to a group led by St. Paul. The apostles approach the altar with reverent, bowed heads against a backdrop of traditional church architecture, elegantly merging the historical Last Supper with the ongoing life of the church.

Beyond its striking imagery, the icon carries a profound theological meaning, transforming the Eucharist from a mere historical commemoration into a timeless, eternal reality. It visualizes the mystical truth that Christ is simultaneously the Offerer and the Offered in the sacrament. By bridging the gap between history and the present, the artwork reminds the faithful that every liturgy is an active participation in a continuous, heavenly feast rather than a simple reenactment of a past event.

This sacred connection is physically anchored by the icon's prominent placement in the church apse, situated directly on the sanctuary wall behind the altar table. As a bishop or priest celebrates the Divine Liturgy, the icon hangs directly above them, visually linking the earthly church to the heavenly realm. It serves as a constant, powerful reminder to all present that the invisible reality of Christ’s eternal priesthood is actively unfolding right before their eyes on the altar below.

About Our Icons (Print and Mounted):

Theophany Works Icons are handcrafted Orthodox Christian icon reproductions made in the United States with prayer and a desire for excellence. Each of our icons are printed on museum-quality matte canvas, providing a rich print with saturated coloration that lends to a beautiful handwritten-icon appearance.

All Theophany Works Icons are mounted on beveled wooden boards and finished with a high-quality UV protection sealant. This offers a subtle authentic-feeling texture while also enhancing durability, allowing for cleaning with a damp cloth. Additionally, each icon is given a maple-shelled keyhole slot on its back for easy and balanced hanging.

Our beautiful icon reproductions are lovingly made in our Lancaster, Pennsylvania studio. We pray they are a blessing to all who receive them, and we believe they will be a beloved addition to any home or parish—each at a fraction of the cost of a hand-painted icon.

***Our Beloved Brothers & Sisters in Christ: Please allow 3 weeks for production as each icon is made to order. If an icon is needed sooner for a baptism, chrismation, wedding, or name day, please contact us—we will always do our very best to accommodate your request.

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