The Prayer of Saints Joachim and Anna
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The Story Behind This Icon
Saints Joachim and Anna are the holy and righteous Ancestors of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and parents of the Holy Virgin Mary. Saint Anna (in English, Anne) was married to the Holy Righteous Joachim, from the ancient family of King David, of the tribe of Judah. Anna came from the priestly tribe of Levi. They were married for 50 years and unable to conceive a child until - after their many faithful prayers and refusal to lose faith in the One True God - the intervention of God in answer to their fervent prayers and fasting.
Through the Archangel Gabriel, God informed Saints Joachim and Anna that they were to conceive the Theotokos, whom they resolved to dedicate to service of the Lord out of their deep gratitude and joy. This icon of the blessed Ancestors of Our Lord shows them in prayer, raising up their hands in supplication to God for his assistance in the conception of a child. One can only imagine their unshakeable humility and faith in God's compassion to continue to pray for such a blessing into old age, faith which they clearly passed to their daughter, the Theotokos.
Saint Anna is invoked by the faithful for help in conception and childbirth, and a portion of her relics may be found at the Skete of Saint Anna on Mount Athos, Greece.
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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. Subtle connecting lines and brush strokes may be visible on the gold leaves and are a testament to the artisan's hand, making each piece entirely unique.
