The Rosemary

Throughout history, rosemary has symbolized remembrance and fidelity. As you enjoy its scent and flavor in your home, remember the gift of God's Son who came to us at Christmas. Remember, as well, the gifts of His love, mercy, and grace. Enjoy rosemary in your meals this Advent as a reminder that God brings healing, reconciliation, and peace into our lives.

Rosemary was connected with the Virgin Mary (because it was thought to be Mary's favorite plant) and people thought that it could protect you from evil spirits. It is also sometimes called the friendship plant and it was the most common garnish put on the boar's head that rich people ate at the main Christmas meal in the Middle ages! It is also known as the remembrance herb and was used at Christmas as this is the time that we remember the birth of Jesus. In the late 1700s a special Christmas Rosemary Service was started in Ripon Cathedral School where a red apple, with a sprig of Rosemary in the top of it, was sold by the school boys to the members of the congregation for 2p, 4p or 6p (depending on the size of apple!).

Here is a recipe for making this Rosemary Bread Wreath for Advent!

https://culinaryginger.com/holiday-rosemary-bread-wreath/

The Mistletoe

Mistletoe in the ancient world was called the "all healer." This healing power was not only for physical ailments, but for the healing of relationships as well. Originally, the kiss under the mistletoe was thought to have been the "kiss of peace," symbolizing reconciliation. It is in keeping with this more ancient meaning that we decorate this sanctuary with mistletoe, in anticipation of the coming of the healing presence of Jesus the Christ.