“An Introduction to Experiencing Icons,” a LENTEN-SEASON CONVERSATION with Rev. Mary E. Green, an Episcopal priest, author, icon artist and Whidbey Island resident is 9:30 a.m. to noon Saturday, Feb. 20, in the parish hall at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, 555 S.E. Regatta Drive in Oak Harbor. Refreshments will be served. Icons, traditionally sacred images of Christ, saints or angels venerated for centuries in Eastern Orthodox churches, have seen a wave of interest in recent times from Christians of all denominations in the United States and elsewhere, who often use them in meditation, prayer and reflection. Rev. Green has created many icons herself and is the author of “Eyes to See: The Redemptive Purpose of Icons.” She calls icons a visual representation of sacred truths. They are not “realistic” images but rather are meant to convey the spiritual energy emanating from a depiction of holy people. Green will discuss her own journey in understanding icons. She will lead a group meditation and discussion of one icon, “The Descent from the Cross.”  Participants will then do a personal meditation with another icon, followed by a group sharing of their thoughts and insights.

COFFEE BREAK BIBLE STUDY will begin a new 8-week study on Feb. 11, taken from Jesus’ “Sermon on the Mount.” This 2,000-year-old message is still relevant today, as it deals with such varied topics as murder, adultery, peacemaking, ambition and righteousness. In this well-known sermon, Jesus’ words point to a new life that comes from a changed heart, not from following a set of rules. This study meets weekly at the Christian Reformed Church, 1411 Wieldraayer Road (off Swantown Road), on Thursday mornings from 10-11:15 a.m. Coffee Break is a non-denominational small group Bible study that is open to all women in the community. No previous Bible knowledge is needed. To receive study material, call Launa at 360-675-4706, or call the church office at 360-675-2881 for more information.

YOUTH ACTIVITIES at Coupeville United Methodist Church are at 12:30 p.m. Sundays. There are games, music, crafts and Christian education. Special activities are planned for taking the teens to beaches, forests and other activities. All youth grades six through 12 are welcome; they don’t need to have an affiliation with the church or attend any church. For more information, call Suzanne Loomis, church life coordinator, at 360-678-4256.