Every rose has its thorn

With the release of our newest Tiny Saint – Mary, Mystical Rose – we're excited not only to share this adorable new charm with you, but also to share some of the story behind it.

There are a lot of flowers associated with Mary! From the miracle worked for Juan Diego on the hill of Tepeyac to the dozens of flowers which have names symbolic of her virtues and life, her presence is one thoroughly adorned with florals.

The title "Mystical Rose" is one with which Mary has been honored for centuries. Formally approved into the church's public worship by its inclusion in the Litany of Loreto in 1587 it's a devotional honor that stretches back even centuries before that. Present in this botanical metaphor are themes of hiddenness, loveliness, unfolding, and layered beauty while also containing notes of pain, suffering, and hardship.

Christians since the early church have meditated on the symbolic imagery that connects Mary's spiritual life and the natural beauty of various flora. Mary Gardens and May Crownings are two popular traditions that continue that custom today.

During the month of May as children, families, and churches all over the world crown Mary, the Queen of Heaven and Earth with their treasured and beautiful flowers you too can adorn the Mother of the Savior with your own beautiful blooms and keep her charm close to remember her sweetness by.