Church of England Birmingham are delighted to celebrate the remarkable artistic gift of Anglo-Catholic Missioner Mthr Charlotte Gibson, whose ministry extends beyond the Diocese into the ancient and beautiful tradition of Christian iconography.
To mark Archbishop Sarah’s departure from the Diocese of London and consecration as Archbishop of Canterbury, Mthr Charlotte had the honour of writing and presenting a bespoke icon of Esther.
Prayerfully written over many hours, the icon is both a work of art and a profound expression of faith, commemorating this significant moment in the life of the Church.
The icon was commissioned by the Diocese of London and was presented to Archbishop Sarah during the Licensing of the new Chaplain to the Archbishop of Canterbury last month.
Reflecting on the icon’s creation, Mthr Charlotte said: “In the Orthodox tradition, icons are considered windows into heaven, depicting the saints that have gone before us.
“In our own churches, these are viewed in many different ways, but it is always a privilege to paint the faces of the great heroes of our faith, knowing that they are a prayerful reminder of our own callings.
“As I paint an icon, God teaches me: every time I make a mistake, or meditate on the Bible passage which has inspired me, or pray that God would bless the person for whom I am making it.”
Mthr Charlotte is also currently designing a new icon based on the "I AM" sayings of Jesus from St John's Gospel.
This striking image will take pride of place in the Christian Chapel at the Invictus Games in Birmingham 2027, where it will offer a focus for prayer, reflection and encounter. A printed version will also be available for visitors to take away as a lasting reminder of God's presence and hope.
Bishop Michael said: “We give thanks for Charlotte's creativity, skill and faithful witness, and pray that through these beautiful icons many people will be drawn more deeply into the wonderful love of Christ.”
Mthr Charlotte Gibson is Anglo-Catholic Missioner at Church of England Birmingham, where she leads work to support Anglo-Catholic parishes across Birmingham and the region.