Finally photographed fairly well, but still, not the same as the real thing. I wish I could bring you all into the studio for this one.
I have to admit that as much as I adored this fabric, because the symbolism is so rich to me, it was a true test of faith to get this made. The brocade has a very fine thread, much like expensive silks that require the worker to have finger nails pared and smooth, hands softened with a non-greasy cream before each sewing session and no hang nails. (all the things my hands are NOT...)
But still, from the bottom metal bullion fringe trimmed out with an extra row of tiny passementerie and beads.......
....To the upper sections hand worked with gold thread....
.....and all those seed beads (oy!).
And the wonderful crosses from Moscow that were set together to form the Jerusalem Crosses....
....With the addition of pearls, of course, and finally the back collar, completed with crocheted trefoil and a matching cross....
....I found it had taken on a life of it's own when finished.
And that is appropriate as *Regular Time* in the church, when green is worn, is a time of growth. Each seed bead, a tiny bud bursting forth. Each larger pearl, one who is further along in wisdom, and the gold of the crosses representative of Heaven.
Our journey here, moving in faith and knowledge toward an ultimate realm. Each soul being gently perfected, not unlike the pearl, that starts as a grain of sand~~an irritant~~and is slowly turned into something of great worth.
I read a fair amount from old texts that describe the colors of the liturgical seasons, and have often felt Regular Time was somewhat treated as the *least* in the calender, yet, as anyone on any spiritual journey will tell you:
The moments of learning and growth are the most important and should be celebrated, each and every one.
Our quest toward something more.
Seeking wisdom.
Sharing love.
May our lives be verdant and green, lush with growth, rich with learning, full from the spirit and soul outward.
May it be so.
For you, and for me.
Pax....
