The face of Our Lady is grave and sorrowful, with her large eyes directed not at Jesus, but at us.  Her gaze makes us a part of the picture and the pain it portrays.  “Will you not love my Son, Who has loved you so much?” she seems to say.  Our Lady is clothed in the colors of royalty; her tunic is of dark red and her mantle is dark blue with a green lining.  The Child Jesus also wears the colors of royalty.  Both Jesus and Mary have golden halos, but Christ’s halo is decorated with a cross as a sign of His Divinity.  The Greek initials next to the head of Our Lady (MP OV) identify her as “Mother of God,” while those next to the Child (IC XC) are the abbreviation for “Jesus Christ.”  The letters over the angel’s heads indicate the one on the left as St. Michael and the one on the right as St. Gabriel.  The 8-pointed star on Our Lady’s veil tells us that she is the Star of the Sea, the Star that leads us to Jesus.  Mary’s mouth is small to indicate her spirit of silence and prayer.  Her eyes are large, for they see all of our troubles and needs, and they are always turned to us.  Christ’s hands, turned palms down into His Mother’s, indicate that He has placed the graces of Redemption in her keeping.  Our Lady’s hand does not clasp those of her Son, but remains open, inviting us to put our hands in hers along with those of Jesus.

As in other icons, the background of the painting is gold to symbolize Heaven, where Jesus and Mary now reign in glory.  This light of heaven shines through their clothing, illuminating not only the picture itself, but those who behold it.  This radiance speaks to us of God’s light and grace, strengthening and consoling us as we journey through life to our heavenly goal.

The Birthstone for the month of July is the Ruby. The Ruby was regarded by ancient Hindus as the “king of gems.” It was believed to protect its wearer from evil. Today, the ruby’s deep-red color signifies love and passion.