QUESTION: Whilst surfing the web I noticed that New Skete Monastary is offering what appear to be icons of Francis and Hilary of Assisi. Are these two people Orthodox Saints? If not, is it proper for an Orthodox monastary to be selling icons of them? Could that not fall under leading other faithful to stumble? or am I just raising problems over nothing? ANSWER: Thank you for your enquiry. I checked out the New Skete web site and indeed they have made available icon cards of Francis of Assisi and Clare. While it may appear odd that an Orthodox monastery would be selling icons of individuals who are not listed on the Orthodox calendar of saints, I am not sure that the appearance of such products will "lead someone astray," as you suggest. [Quite honestly, one could think of dozens of other things that could be dangerous to one's soul and salvation, and these would not include a card with the image and prayer of Francis of Assisi printed thereon.] By way of background, the New Skete Monastic Community was for years before entering Orthodox Christianity, a Byzantine Rite Franciscan community, so at least one can consider this to be the reason they make cards of St Francis or St Clare available to the public. I might also add that there have been occasional comparisons made by some Orthodox Christians between Francis of Assisi and Seraphim of Sarov. Another way to look at this: New Skete's site also advertises cheesecakes and books on raising dogs; this in no way implies that Orthodox Christianity has an official policy on desserts or pets, or that the Orthodox Church promotes the eating of cheesecake as opposed to chocolate pie. Please do not think that I am being glib here, because I certainly am not. I do hope, however, that I have provided a different angle from which to view your concern.
Published in January 2011.
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