Lily, St. Gabriel: This archangel was the angel sent to Mary to announce that she was to be the mother of Jesus. He is sometimes called the "Angel of the Annunciation." (Luke 1.)
Fleur de Lis: Symbolizes the Trinity, also Mary the mother of our Lord.
Crown and palm, St. Dorothy: A virgin of Caesarea in Cappadocia noted for her beauty and piety. Refusing to sacrifice to idols, she was beheaded. Martyred about 300 A.D.
Daisies, St. High of Grenoble: Appointed bishop of Grenoble, he believed he was inefficient and retired to an austere abbey for discipline. The pope, however, impressed by the bishop's holy life, recalled him to his former high office where he served notably. Died 1132 A.D.
Bursting Pomegranate: Symbolizes the Resurrection and the power of our Lord, who was able to burst the tomb and come forth.
Christmas Rose: Symbolizes the Nativity, and Messianic prophecy.
Snake and shamrock, St. Patrick: A captive British boy in Ireland, Patrick escaped and was educated in continental monasteries. Later he returned to Ireland preaching and teaching the Gospel and building churches. Patron saint of Ireland. Died about 465 A.D.
Carpenter's square and flowers, St. Joseph: Joseph was the husband of Mary, the mother if Jesus. All that is known of Joseph is found in the first two chapters of Matthew and Luke. In Matthew, he is described as a "just man." First Century.
Daisy: Symbolizes the innocence of the Holy Child.
Wheat: Heads of wheat symbolize the Bread of Life (Mark 14:22). With clusters of grapes, appropriate for holy tables.
Tree, St. Bride (St. Bridget): Baptized by St. Patrick, St. Bridget founded the first nunnery in Ireland. Legends stress her mercy and pity for the poor. Died 523 A.D.
Flowers, St. Mary: About fifty Marys are mentioned in the Book of Saints. The mother of Jesus is, of course, the outstanding character among them.
Palm Leaf: In ancient times, a palm leaf was given to winners in contests of strength and skill. For Christians it signifies the heavenly reward (Rev 7:9) and reminds us of Jesus' entry into Jerusalem now celebrated on Palm Sunday.
Shamrock, St. Gerald: A Northumbrian monk who followed Colman from Lindisfarne to Ireland and became his successor in the English house built at Mayo for the English Monastic Colony. Died 732 A.D.
Lily: Symbol of immortality and Easter. The bulb decays in the ground, yet from it new life is released.