[magisterium]

Indeed, this sort of depiction is preferable. I'd be the first to concede that, in a perfect world, the "steering wheel" would probably be unnecessary, at least for people beyond the age of 10. But, the situation we find ourselves in these days is hardly perfect: hundreds of millions of cultural Christians - Catholic, Protestant and Orthodox - in Europe and the Americas know nothing about the Christian Faith their grandparents embraced, tens of millions more have some tangible connection with Christianity, but that connection is based on content-free, touchy-feely nonsense. All of these people need to start at the bottom rung when it comes to learning actual doctrine, and most of them live in an analytical world, as opposed to a spiritual one, at least to some extent.

So, needing to start somewhere...voila...the "Steering Wheel" catechetical tool is presented for their edification! St. Patrick used the shamrock, we 21st Century types can appeal to more familiar objects in our culture, such as this well-known automobile part.

[Kolokotronis]

“So, needing to start somewhere...voila...the “Steering Wheel” catechetical tool is presented for their edification! St. Patrick used the shamrock, we 21st Century types can appeal to more familiar objects in our culture, such as this well-known automobile part.”

That’s just pandering to a fallen and abysmally stupid (not uneducated...stupid!) age! I prefer NYer’s closing comment above:

“In praying with icons, they will begin to speak of the unique way in which God has chosen to love you.”

[NYer]

All of these people need to start at the bottom rung when it comes to learning actual doctrine, and most of them live in an analytical world, as opposed to a spiritual one, at least to some extent.

Ahhhh .... there's an awesome icon that fits this, as well. Hats off to Kolokotronis for introducing me to it.

The Ladder of Divine Ascent

As the French would say - "sans paroles" - no words necessary. Each and every day is a struggle. There is no shortcut to Heaven. We are tempted at each and every stage of our journey. We can draw inspiration from the saints who have gone before us and set the examle to follow. Love this icon!