The Sunday of Orthodoxy, celebrated on the first Sunday of Great Lent, marks a pivotal moment in Christian history—the restoration of icons and the triumph of Orthodox faith. This day commemorates the victory over iconoclasm, a controversy that shook the Church for over a century, and reaffirms the importance of icons in Christian worship and spirituality. But what is the story behind this celebration, and why do icons hold such significance in the Orthodox Church? Let’s explore the history, theology, and traditions of this profound feast.
The Historical Background: The Iconoclastic Controversy
The iconoclastic controversy began in the 8th century when some Christians, influenced by a misunderstanding of the Second Commandment, rejected the use of icons, claiming they led to idolatry. These Iconoclasts (icon-breakers) sought to remove icons from churches, arguing that they violated the commandment against graven images. On the other side were the Iconophiles (icon-lovers), who defended the use of icons as essential to preserving the Church’s teachings and expressing the incarnation of Christ.
The conflict reached its climax in 787 AD at the Seventh Ecumenical Council, convened in Nicaea by Empress Irene and Patriarch Tarasios of Constantinople. The Council affirmed the veneration of icons, declaring that icons are not idols but windows to the divine. They serve as reminders of Christ’s incarnation and the saints’ holy lives, helping believers connect with the spiritual reality they represent.
However, the controversy resurfaced, and it wasn’t until 843 AD that icons were fully restored. Under Empress Theodora, a regional synod in Constantinople solemnly proclaimed the veneration of icons. A triumphant procession was held, and icons were returned to their rightful place in churches. This event, known as the Triumph of Orthodoxy, is celebrated annually on the first Sunday of Lent.
The Theology of Icons: Windows to the Divine
Icons are far more than religious art; they are a theological statement. The Orthodox Church teaches that icons are a natural consequence of the incarnation—the belief that God became human in Jesus Christ. Because Christ took on a physical form, He can be depicted in images. Icons make the invisible God visible, bridging the gap between heaven and earth.
The Seventh Ecumenical Council clarified that icons are to be venerated, not worshipped. Veneration (proskynesis) is an act of honor and respect, while worship (latreia) is reserved for God alone. When we venerate an icon, we honor the person or event it represents, not the material itself. As St. Basil the Great famously said, “The honor given to the icon passes over to its prototype.”
Icons also play a sacramental role in Orthodox spirituality. They are believed to convey grace and serve as a means of communion with the divine. Whether in churches or homes, icons are a constant reminder of God’s presence and the communion of saints.
The Icon of the Feast: The Triumph of Orthodoxy
The icon of the Sunday of Orthodoxy vividly depicts the restoration of icons. At its center is the Virgin Hodegetria, a beloved depiction of the Theotokos as the “Directress” who points the way to Christ. Flanked by angels, the icon is surrounded by key figures in the triumph over iconoclasm: Empress Theodora, her son Michael III, and Patriarchs Methodios and Tarasios. The icon also includes numerous saints who defended the faith during the iconoclastic period.
This icon not only commemorates a historical event but also serves as a visual proclamation of the Orthodox faith. It reminds us that the Church’s victory over heresy is a victory of truth, beauty, and the incarnation.
How the Sunday of Orthodoxy is Celebrated
The Sunday of Orthodoxy is marked by special services and traditions:
Divine Liturgy and Procession: The day begins with the Divine Liturgy of St. Basil the Great. At the end of the service, a procession is held where the faithful carry icons around the church, symbolizing the restoration of icons and the unity of the Church.
Pan-Orthodox Vespers: In many places, Orthodox Christians from different jurisdictions come together for a shared Vespers service, celebrating the universality of the Orthodox faith.
Hymns and Scripture Readings: The hymns of the day emphasize the victory of Orthodoxy and the role of icons in guiding believers to Christ. The Epistle reading (Hebrews 11:24-26, 32-40) highlights the faith of Old Testament saints, while the Gospel (John 1:43-51) points to the greater revelation of Christ.
Commemoration of the Departed: The Saturday before the Sunday of Orthodoxy is dedicated to praying for the departed, reminding us of the Church’s connection between the living and the dead.
The Spiritual Significance of the Sunday of Orthodoxy
The Sunday of Orthodoxy is more than a historical commemoration; it is a celebration of the truth of the Christian faith. Icons remind us that God became man, that the divine entered the material world, and that we are called to participate in this divine life.
This feast also challenges us to reflect on our own faith. Do we, like the Iconoclasts, reject the visible signs of God’s presence? Or do we, like the Iconophiles, embrace the fullness of the faith, recognizing that God’s grace can work through material means?
Conclusion: A Celebration of Faith and Beauty
The Sunday of Orthodoxy is a vibrant celebration of the Church’s victory over heresy and the restoration of icons. It is a day to rejoice in the beauty of the faith, to honor the saints who defended it, and to recommit ourselves to living as icons of Christ in the world.
As we venerate icons, let us remember that we, too, are called to reflect the divine image. Through prayer, fasting, and acts of love, we can become living icons, shining with the light of Christ and pointing others to the way of salvation.
Join the Celebration: Whether you are Orthodox or simply curious about the faith, the Sunday of Orthodoxy offers a profound opportunity to deepen your understanding of Christian history and spirituality. Attend a service, venerate an icon, and experience the beauty of the Triumph of Orthodoxy!