Faith in Form: A Retreat in Religious Art

Join us for an exploration of the rich tradition of Christian iconography through hands-on painting, theological reflection, and prayer.

Discover how beauty and theology unite in liturgical art.

*Cost is $225 – REGISTRATION FULL

Faith in Form: A Retreat in Religious Art

Sts Anne & Joachim Catholic Church

October 10 – 12, 2025

Day 1 – Friday

6:00 – 7:00 – Introductions, Overview of retreat focus, Intro to History & Theology of Icons in the Church, w/Fr Oliver Herbel. Light snacks will be provided.

7:00 – 9:00 – Iconography Workshop 1: Laying the Foundation – Lorie Herbel. How an Iconographer prepares; symbolism & techniques; initial steps.

Day 2 – Saturday

8:30 AM – Mass (Sts Anne & Joachim parish schedule)

9:15 – 9:45 AM – Coffee Chat: Use of iconography in liturgical practice and devotional use in our prayer lives, with Fr Oliver Herbel (Coffee & muffins/fruit provided)

10:00 AM – 12:30PM – Iconography Workshop 2: Opening the Window. Base colors and building up layers.

12:30 – 1:30 – Box Lunch, & Digging into the Theology of Beauty & Iconography – Fr O

1:30 –4:00 pm – Iconography Workshop 3: Begin to reveal the inner light

Continue layers and focusing on increasing detail

4:00 – 5:00pm – *Optional* open studio time for catch-up painting as needed, or quiet reflection/prayer time on your own

5:00 PM – Mass (Sts. Anne & Joachim parish schedule)

6:00 – 6:30 PM – Evening Meal & fellowship

6:30 – 8:30 PM – Iconography Workshop 4: Sharpening the focus

Outlines of face & hair areas, garments, figure outline, red border outline

Details: Gospel book (accessory items depends on saint)

Touchups on background, border as needed

Day 3 – Sunday

11:00 AM – Mass (Sts. Anne & Joachim parish schedule)

12:00 – 1:00 PM – Fellowship & Coffee, sandwiches & refreshments

1:00 – 4:00 PM – Iconography Workshop 5: Heaven shines through

Halo, Lettering, Final touches. Spray varnish.

4:00 – 4:30 PM – Snack Break & Clean up

4:30 PM – Blessing Prayers for completed icons, final closing prayers