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Russian Orthodox icons and New Mexican santos: different and yet the same?

This book is about similarities and differences that converge. The differences between the Roman Catholic Church and the Eastern Orthodox Church are legendary. And yet in some ways they have much in common. In this book Russian icons and New Mexican santos are compared in regard to style, intentional use, and liturgical practice. In the course of this exploration differences are noted, but also some unexpected similarities are found.

It is my contention that religious images have an intrinsic value such that they should be recognized in their own right as an important part of the Christian experience. The rich tradition of Christian imagery has played an important role in the past and continues to play an important role today in Christian life and practice. However, there are aspects of our modern society that endanger that role. An import ant part of what I am suggesting in this Catholic/Orthodox interface is a mutual recognition of the significance of icons and santos, both historically and in the modern world, and the need for the preservation of both of these traditions.