The Art of Faith: A Journey Through the Icons of St. Charbel Church, Ehden

Martine Boutros
Lebanese Artist & Iconographer
Martine Icons | Vibrand Studio

The entrance to a church is more than just a doorway; it’s a profound statement of faith, a visual sermon in stone and mosaic. At St. Charbel Church in Ehden, the intricate artistry of its entryway tells a story that bridges centuries, connecting worshippers to the rich tapestry of Christian history through icons and craftsmanship.

The Rabbula Gospels: A Window to the 6th Century

The first thing to catch your eye is the set of majestic front doors. These aren’t ordinary doors; they are adorned with miniatures from the Rabbula Gospels. This isn’t just a beautiful design choice; it’s a direct link to one of the most revered religious manuscripts in history. The original manuscript was created in the 6th century by a Syriac Maronite monk named Rabbula, who painstakingly copied the four Gospels into Syriac. It is celebrated as a pioneering work of Christian art and one of the oldest religious manuscripts known today.

The first thing to catch your eye is the set of majestic front doors. These aren’t ordinary doors; they are adorned with miniatures from the Rabbula Gospels. This isn’t just a beautiful design choice; it’s a direct link to one of the most revered religious manuscripts in history. The original manuscript was created in the 6th century by a Syriac Maronite monk named Rabbula, who painstakingly copied the four Gospels into Syriac. It is celebrated as a pioneering work of Christian art and one of the oldest religious manuscripts known today.

The Mosaic Triptych: A Story in Stone

Above the doors, a series of three exquisite mosaics completes the narrative. Each one holds a significant place in the spiritual life of the church and its community.

In the center, a mosaic of Jesus Christ reigns supreme. He is depicted as “the beginning and the end,” a powerful symbol reminding us that all paths within the church lead to the Savior. His central position emphasizes that He is the ultimate purpose of our faith journey. To the right, the mosaic honors the Virgin Mary, specifically revered as Our Lady of Zgharta. As the patron saint of the Ehden-Zgharta parish, she holds a special place in the hearts of the local community. The mosaic beautifully portrays her as the Mother of God, forever by her Son’s side, serving as an intercessor and a loving mother to all.

On the left, a third mosaic is dedicated to Saint Thérèse of the Child Jesus. This mosaic is a heartfelt tribute to the late Thérèse Ghaleb Yammine, the mother of the donor who presented this beautiful church to the community. Her presence links the sacred space to a personal act of generosity and faith, honoring her memory and devotion.

Together, the doors and mosaics at the entrance of St. Charbel Church, Ehden, form a comprehensive visual guide to faith. They are not merely decorations but profound works of art that educate, inspire, and remind every person who walks through the doors of the sacred stories and figures that form the foundation of their belief. They are true icons in every sense of the word.