Topic starter
23/06/2014 5:10 pm
Grace Episcopal Church, a Seamen's Institute Chapel, in Pomeroy, Ohio held a beautiful dedication of an icon painting during Mass yesterday. The painting featuring St. Nicholas, patron saint of river and sea mariners, was commissioned by Frank Prudent and dedicated in memory of his late father William and mother Ellen Prudent. It will serve as a reminder to the church and visitors of those whose professions are found on the inland rivers. The service was officiated by the Right Honorable Bishop Thomas Breidenthal and was closed with "Eternal Father, Strong to Save."
23/06/2014 7:03 pm
Thanks, Taylor, for posting the above. It was certainly a beautiful day there on the banks of the Ohio at Grace Episcopal.
The icon is full of so much symbolism, as an actual icon should be. The artist Kelly Latimore, who is the young gentleman in one of the photos with me, truly did a wonderful job, and Kelly admits to being inspired by Harlan Hubbard in his artwork. In the dark inky blue background he depicts the millions of stars in the sky above Grace Episcopal Church, just like the first time the MISSISSIPPI QUEEN came down-bound through Pomeroy Bend in 1985 with Fred Way, C.W. Stoll, Woody Rutter, others in their party, and myself onboard. St. Nicholas was born under the sign of Pieces according to Kelly, so the twin fishes shine in the heavens along with the Big Dipper. Also the saint is holding an AEP boat in his left hand.
To make the day even more special. Bob Reynolds came by the church on his boat, and I think he was on watch, right before the celebration started in the church at 11:00 AM.
24/06/2014 11:46 pm
Congratulations Frank
The artwork is "iconic" and is easily understood from a distance. It should remind parishioners of their important river history. Job well done