Adorning Worship: The Symbolism of Our Lenten Stole Collection
Lent is a season of deep reflection, calling us to journey inward as we prepare our hearts for Easter. The visual elements of worship—color, texture, and symbol—play a meaningful role in guiding this sacred time. Our Lenten stole collection is designed to honor this season, incorporating hues of purple, ashes, and earth tones that reflect themes of repentance, humility, and renewal. Each stole is a visual prayer, crafted to accompany clergy as they lead congregations through the solemnity and hope of Lent.
In this post we’re sharing some behind-the-scenes stories about this 2025 Lent stole collection that aren’t in the ‘official descriptions’ on the website!
This stole began with a single fabric find —
discovered in an upscale quilt shop, its rich purplish-red tones and delicate palm branches immediately evoked the depth of the Lenten season. The color, reminiscent of both royalty and sacrifice, and the symbolism of the palms made it a perfect fit. Yet, the design didn’t come together instantly.
It took time—time to reflect, to let the fabric’s story unfold, and to discern how best to honor its meaning. After much creative percolation, the vision finally emerged, resulting in a stole that carries both visual beauty and deep spiritual significance.
This stole carries a personal touch —
its hand-painted details are a nod to my artistic roots. My journey with watercolor began in high school and deepened through every painting class I could take at Penn State University. Creating stoles like this allows me to return to those foundations, blending my love for fine art with the sacred purpose of vestment design. Each brushstroke is an act of gratitude—for the training that shaped me and the opportunity to bring that passion into my work today.
This stole has been our most popular Lenten design over the years,
resonating deeply with those who seek to embody the season’s meaning in worship. Its impact has extended beyond stoles—we’ve adapted the design into several banners, including one showcased at the national Sacred Threads quilt exhibit. This piece is a beautiful example of how we strive to tell the story through art, weaving faith and symbolism into every stitch and brushstroke.
The theme of Into the Wilderness has always resonated with me,
so this design came together naturally. In fact, I’ve embraced the concept in a personal way this year—I’ve set aside wilderness days throughout 2025, intentional times to step away from all things digital and immerse myself in God’s creation. These days are about stillness, listening, and being open to whatever the Spirit wants to reveal. My first one is just a few weeks away—perfect timing for Lent, don’t you think?
This stole is a unique design,
using the same shape to depict both the palm branch and the spear—two powerful symbols of Christ’s journey. I love how this subtle detail invites deeper reflection on the contrast between praise and sacrifice, triumph and suffering.
As we walk through Lent, these stoles serve as a reminder of the sacred journey from ashes to resurrection. Whether through the weight of a cross motif, the simplicity of flowing lines, or the deep richness of Lenten purple, each design seeks to enhance worship with meaning and reverence. May these vestments not only adorn but also inspire—offering a visual invitation to step deeper into the season’s call to reflection, surrender, and grace.
