From Object to Icon

by Andrew Williams

Since the advent of the internet, it has become increasingly obvious that as a society we suffer from a pornography problem—and Orthodox Christians are no exception. While many practical resources are available to help those who struggle with pornography use, these fail to address the problem at its deeper, spiritual root and to acknowledge how it affects us all. From Object to Icon shows us all how to change the way we see—to learn to see iconographically rather than pornographically. Whether or not we struggle with pornography use, this book shows us how to stop objectifying others and instead see the spiritual reality in everyone we encounter.

About the Author: Andrew Williams works as a health care chaplain in both mental health and acute hospital contexts, and teaches a postgraduate course in psycho-spiritual care. He is also a counselor/psychotherapist with particular experience working with children and teens, domestic abuse, and issues relating to sexuality and intimacy. His interest in anthropology and the nature of interpersonal relationships led to his work on the Ancient Faith pastoral podcast "Finding the Freedom to Live in the Image of God" (FtFtL) during his time studying at Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology in Boston, where he graduated as valedictorian in 2010 with an MDiv. Also a graduate of Oxford University, sometime school teacher and musician, sometime resident of Russia, the USA, and France, he currently lives with his family in Oxford, England.