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Category: Church History

Start on a journey through Church history, spanning more than two thousand years. It all started in the 1st century with Jesus Christ’s teachings and the formation of early Christian groups. Moving into the 4th and 5th centuries, important gatherings, like Councils, shaped lasting ideas still important in Church history today. Around the world, Christianity spread, and in medieval Europe, the church became more crucial despite a split in 1054, creating two parts.

As we move through time, the Renaissance becomes an influential period. In the 16th century, leaders like Martin Luther and John Calvin made significant changes, leading to different Protestant groups. Fast-forward to the 20th century, marked by events and meetings trying to bring Christian groups together, and echoes of church history still impact our lives.

Follow the historical journey to discover how Church history shapes faith, culture, and life. Find connections from the past to the present, learning valuable lessons from Christianity. Reflecting on this history encourages acceptance of our differences, builds unity, and creates a better future for all Christian communities. Thus, keeping our mutual venture creates a strong bond of compassion, humility, and enduring love.

As we confront challenges today, let the wisdom of Church history guide us to better understanding, cooperation, and harmonious living in our global community. And, embrace the lessons of the past for a brighter future.  As we travel together through our shared history, let’s work towards a future where everyone in the entire Christian community feels welcomed and cared for. By appreciating our past, we can build bridges of unity and kindness, fostering a more compassionate world for all.

Tool kit

Sacred Heart Project Launch!

We’re thrilled to announce the launch of our linen kit for the upcoming Sacred Heart project in collaboration with ClaraStitching. Download your free printable patterns from the provided Dropbox link and note that only fifty linen kits are available, so act fast! Clara Stitching will be hosting a free hand embroidery class on June 15th; sign up for updates via her forum link.

Clara Stitching Design

Introducing Clara Warschauer!

Exciting news! A collaboration between Clara of Clarastitching and a mystery partner brings a project revamping liturgical vestments, mostly free. Sacred Heart month marks its launch. Clara, an embroidery expert, offers workshops and project kits with free global shipping. Based in the UK, her influence extends to South America. Follow her on Instagram for inspiration and to join her vibrant community.

Chi Rho Bullion Gold Applique

(PX) Did you know?

The Chi-Rho symbol, comprised of the Greek letters Chi (?) and Rho (?), represents “Christ” in Christianity. Legend has it that Roman Emperor Constantine the Great saw this symbol before a key battle, leading to his victory. Constantine’s embrace of Christianity and promotion of the symbol marked a turning point, contributing to the religion’s rise in the Roman Empire.

Symbolism in the Church: The Cross

Symbolism in the Church: The Cross

The Latin cross (also known as the Cross of the Passion) is the most commonly used. It is believed that this is the style of the cross in which Jesus was crucified. In older times, it was used indiscriminately with the Greek cross (more on that later!) but when the Eastern and Western churches split the Western Orthodox primarily used the Latin cross and the Eastern Orthodox used the Greek cross.

Scarlet Gothic Chasuble Pelican Design | Lent Holy Week Gothic Chasuble Ecclesiastical Sewing

Pelican as a Symbol of Christianity

The church symbol of the pelican was first used in the British 12th century as the bird was believed to be a perfect example of the great sacrifice that our Lord made for us. It awakens the spirit of charity towards others and reminds us of the generosity of our Lord, the great redeemer. Therefore, the image of the pelican is a strong reminder that ties us to our faith and a universal symbol that joins the Christian community together.

St. Michael Artwork Print Edward Riojas at Ecclesiastical Sewing

Liturgical Artwork Prints | Gift Ideas

Looking for something that will be enjoyed by your special father every day? Please consider selecting the perfect gift of a Giclée print. Giclée prints are the archival standard used by museums and galleries to reproduce fine art. The images are printed on Hahnemuehle fine art paper and are ready for framing to suit your decor.

Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis: A Taste of Europe in the New World

You might find the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis, located in Missouri, The seat of the Diocese of St. Louis, this magnificent cathedral is dedicated to St. Louis, King of France. Louis IX is the only French king to be canonized, and the reign of Louis IX was known for having a close association between Church teaching and civil society.

Adoration of the Magi - Epiphany Banner Ecclesiastical Sewing

Epiphany: A Celebration with Varied Traditions

Epiphany is a feast day in the Western church, white vestments and paraments are used. Sometimes gold is substituted. There aren’t any specific Epiphany symbols, but there are often representations of the Three Kings elsewhere in churches.

Embroidery Design by Ecclesiastical Sewing

The Christmas Rose Legend and Symbolism

Christmas rose, also known as the Glastonbury Rose. This is a little white flower that grows in northern Europe during the winter. Legend has it that the Christmas rose is of miraculous origin. As the Christmas rose represents purity, it has often been carved into confessionals as a five-petal flower: the penitent walks in a guilty sinner, and out with their purity restored. It also appears in plenty of medieval heraldry, among other uses.