Revd Christopher Perrins (date unknown)
Icon of the Seven Martyrs in the Solomon Islands (2019)
Egg Tempera and 23 carat gold leaf
91.5cm x 68cm
Chester Cathedral
Icon of the Seven Martyrs of Melanesia
A beautiful icon of the Seven Martyrs in the Solomon Islands was presented by the Companions of the Melanesian Brothers for the Martyrs Chapel in the South Transept.
Bishop Mark, Bishop Keith, Bishop Willy and his daughter Kate, Archdeacons Mike and Ian were amongst the small group who welcomed the icon in a short service. The icon was created by Revd Christopher Perrins who recalls the time of civil unrest in the Solomon Islands in early 2003.
Melanesian brothers are peacemakers belonging to the Anglican Religious Community of the Melanesian Brotherhood. Brother Nathaniel went to visit the leader Harold Keke on the Weather Coast of Guadacanal considering him to be a friend. He was tortured and murdered. Six brothers went to find him and request the body: three were killed immediately and the other three were killed the following day. The graves of the brothers are in Tabalia.
Chester Cathedral is honoured to recall the martyrs through the stunning icon. The icon is yet unfinished: after a year it will be varnished.
Jesus walked the way of the cross for love of your people;
When our courage fails, may we call to mind the seven Melanesian Brothers and be
strengthened to serve you.
Amen