Before writting an icon the iconographer prays and fasts:
"You, Divine Master, from all that exists, enlighten, guide the soul, the spirit and the heart of thy servant. Guide his hand that he can represent perfectly and with dignity your Image, that of you Holy Mother, and that of all the saints, for the glory, the joy and the embellishment of thy Church. My God, bless my humble efforts; make that my labor serve at the elevation of my soul for the glory of your Holy Name."
The blessing of an icon:
"God the Father, in the name of Your Son Jesus Christ, send the grace of thy Holy Spirit over this icon that your servant has painted for your glory. From your invisible hand, sign and bless this icon; give it the force of sanctifying action, that all that approach with veneration, may obtain: health, sanctification and blessing. That this blessing made by us may praise Thee and we offer You glory, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, now and ever and unto the ages of ages. Amen
Then the priest sprinkles the icon, saying three times:
By the grace of the Holy Trinity, by the sprinkling of this Holy water, this icon is blessed and sanctified . In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
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