Every house I’ve ever lived in (5 of them) was blessed to have a dogwood tree in the yard! So I’ve had a love of dogwoods even when I was very young. As a teen, I heard the legend of the dogwood and I just loved the story. No, I don’t think it’s true, but the imagery and symbolism of the cross and the dogwood blossoms are so beautiful!
So, for the last week and a half, I’ve been slowly working on the artwork to create the printable cards and the dogwood craft patterns which are in this post…
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The Legend of the DogwoodAt the time of the crucifixion, the dogwood had reached the size of the mighty oak tree. So strong and firm was the wood that it was chosen as the timber for Jesus’ cross.To be used for such a cruel purpose greatly distressed the dogwood. While nailed upon it, Jesus sensed this, and in his compassion said. “Because of your pity for my suffering, never again shall the dogwood tree grow large enough to be used for a cross. Henceforth, it shall be slender, bent, and twisted, and its blossoms shall be in the form of a cross–two long and two short petals.“In the center of the outer edge of each petal will be the print of nails. In the center of the flower, stained with blood, will be a crown of thorns so that all who see it will remember.”from “Sower’s Seeds Aplenty: Fourth Planting,” # 29, p. 22
A little more information on the dogwood and its blossoms:
Dogwood flowers have a few different colors. They can be White (purity) or pink (blood-stained). The white flower centers are green to start and then become more yellow as the mini flowers open.
The pink flower centers are often brown.
In the fall, the centers (crown of thorns) swell and turn into berries, which birds eat. Neat isn’t it!! (I’m also a science nut!)
- the pattern Choose: {large} or {4 small}
- crayons
- tape or glue
- scissors
I enjoyed drawing these flowers and cards.
My kids enjoyed coloring and creating the crafts.
I also loved this legend as a teen. I know my girls are going to enjoy making these flowers and decorating everything with them. Thanks!
Just beautiful Jennifer! I had only recently heard about this story and checked it out from the library. It's really good and filled with pretty pictures.
I'm not sure why I've never stumbled across your blog before, but I am certainly enjoying looking around! I'm always looking for new ideas. God bless! Annita +JMJ+
Your local library had it!?! Mine didn’t! 🙁 ♥ Thanks, Noreen! God Bless.
Your kids always do a beautiful job! Hope they enjoy it! God bless!
It’s nice to meet you, Annita! So glad you found me! May God bless you and your family!
Thanks Jennifer for sharing this and your many other awesome crafts on my Homemade Mother's Day Link Party: http://mylifesatreasure.blogspot.com/2012/04/homemade-mothers-day-link-party.htmlKarri