Iconographer Begins Work on First Icon of Saint Mama Antula Following Approval of Miracle
Iconographer Begins Work on First Icon of Saint Mama Antula
Father Eduardo Pérez dal Lago, a priest and iconographer from Buenos Aires, Argentina, has started creating the first icon of the future saint, Mama Antula. This comes after the approval of the miracle that allows the canonization of Mama Antula, which was granted on Sunday, February 11.
In a statement to the Argentine Catholic Information Agency (AICA), Father Eduardo explained the symbolism behind the icon. He mentioned that Mama Antula’s saintly halo extends beyond the frame of the icon, representing how holiness transcends human limitations. The use of gold in the icon symbolizes divinity and the transfigured life of the future saint.
The icon features the “Holy House of Exercises,” a significant part of Mama Antula’s legacy. While she lived in Buenos Aires in her later years, the icon depicts landscapes of Santiago del Estero, where she began her life and apostolate. The bottom of the icon shows a wheat field, symbolizing various aspects of Mama Antula’s life and work.
Father Eduardo mixed pigments to color Mama Antula’s habit, creating a unique blue-black effect. This is the first image of Mama Antula as a saint, as all previous images referred to her as Blessed Mama Antula.
The canonization of Mama Antula was authorized by Pope Francis after a miracle was attributed to her intercession. The miracle involved the miraculous survival of a man who suffered a severe medical condition and made a remarkable recovery after prayers to Mama Antula.
Mama Antula, also known as María Antonia de San José, was a consecrated laywoman who founded the House of Exercises in Buenos Aires. She dedicated her life to promoting spiritual exercises and helping thousands of people renew their faith.
The creation of the first icon of Saint Mama Antula marks a significant milestone in her journey to sainthood. The icon serves as a visual representation of her holiness and the impact she had on the lives of many.