The icon is meant as a reminder of the ruling power of Jesus, but a giant white splotch covers part of his face and chest, marring the sacred image. There's deterioration at the top of St. Joseph's head. There's damage to the top of a wise man's horse.
Officials can pinpoint some of the causes.
Moisture is creeping into the building through unsealed bricks. There's a crack in the corner of the building, constructed in 1956. There are problems with the air conditioning ducts. Church officials need to do a thorough inspection to make sure all necessary repairs are made before restoring the icons, said the Rev. Konstantinos Kostaris. They plan to erect a catwalk to examine the area between the roof and the ceiling to pinpoint sources of damage.