The Legend of the Dogwood

Here's the perfect companion to help you meditate in The Garden, the dogwood rosary.

Legend has it that hundreds of years ago, the dogwood tree grew strong and tall. For this reason, it was chosen to make Jesus' cross. As a result of Christ's presence upon its wood, however, the tree was changed forever. It's flowers were made of 4 petals, to resemble the cross, and each petal bore the mark of the crucifixion. In the center, the yellow seeds formed a crown of thorns, and the whiteness of the flower spoke of the innocence and purity of the Christ who hung upon it. 

Our dogwood rosary carries on the Legend of the Dogwood. We've incorporated the Easter colors of pink and green - colors of springtime and new life. The Hail Mary beads are different sizes and shapes, as though the joy of the flowers is jumping out all around like mini fireworks that can't be contained!  The Our Father beads are all the same, though, showing Jesus' determination to do the will of his Father, to stay the course and not turn from his mission. The centerpiece features Mary, Jesus' Mother, who shared his suffering and his joy. The crucifix itself reminds us of Jesus' great sacrifice, even as it celebrates his resurrection with a bed of dogwood petals.

While praying with our dogwood rosary, you might pray with Mary and ponder:
Do I feel the joy of Easter myself, personally?
Where do I need new life?  In my mind? My heart? My body? My emotions?
Do I seek to understand and follow the will of God in my own life? What might happen if I did?