Hand painted icon of Saint Dionysios and the forgiveness of his brother's murderer. The christian icon is made on Mount Athos, on natural wood and is delivered in a wooden box.
Saint Dionysios was born in 1547 in the coastal region of Zakynthos into a prominent and wealthy family. From a young age, he turned away from worldly concerns and embraced the monastic life at the Monastery of Strophades. He was later ordained to the holy priesthood and eventually consecrated Bishop of Aegina, where he served with wisdom, humility, and love. Returning to his native Zakynthos, he became abbot of the Monastery of Anafonitria, continuing his spiritual ministry with dedication.
In the icon, a remarkable example of the holiness of Saint Dionysios is depicted, that is his forgiveness of the murderer of his brother, Constantine. Saint Dionysios concealed and protected this man, saving him from certain death. Through this merciful act, Saint Dionysios not only prevented another crime but also helped bring about the repentance of his brother’s killer. This act stands as a profound testament to forgiveness and a powerful expression of Christian love. For this reason, Saint Dionysios is called "the Saint of forgiveness". Saint Dionysios fell asleep in the Lord peacefully on December 17, 1624, and in the year 1703, the Church officially proclaimed him a saint.
