Archives for March 2026

Have you ever wondered why baptism and communion are celebrated during Easter? Easter celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ on the third day after his crucifixion, his conquering of death and redemption of mankind from sin. Both baptism and communion are symbolic of the resurrection through identification with Jesus, a time for renewal of faith and embracing new life, and a celebration of both personal and communal commitment to faith.

Baptism

Baptism is initiation into the church and a public declaration of faith and commitment to Jesus. It represents forgiveness of sins through a covenant with Jesus and a willingness to follow Jesus’ teachings and example. It is also a personal connection to the death, burial, resurrection and eternal lift of Jesus Christ – with waiting to be baptized symbolizing his death on the cross, being lowered into or sprinkled with the water symbolizing his burial, and being raised from the water, symbolizing his rising from the dead.

Communion

The act of communion is a symbol of resurrection with the bread and wine signifying the body and blood of Jesus, broken and poured for humanity’s salvation. Christians celebrate the resurrection of Jesus and their own hope for eternal life received through faith. It is a shared experience that unites believers, emphasizing community within their faith. It invites Christians to reflect on their own spiritual journey, the need for grace and the power of Jesus’ sacrifice.

Whatever your beliefs may be, spring is a time for renewal, reflection and rebirth. Bridgewaters loves to be part of your celebrations – stop in and let us help you find just the perfect jewelry to mark this special time of year.

March 17 has become synonymous with green, corned beef and cabbage, and beer, but where do these traditions come from? St. Patrick’s Day honors Ireland’s patron saint, St. Patrick and is observed on the anniversary of his death in the 5^th century. St. Patrick, born in Britain during Roman times, was kidnapped and brought to Ireland as a slave at 16 years old. After six years in slavery, he escaped to what is now France and trained as a priest. He returned to Ireland where he is credited with converting the Irish to Christianity, creating churches and using the shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity.

Observance of St. Patrick’s Day began in Ireland in the 9^th or 10^th century as a Roman Catholic feast day. The more secular holiday we know in America began in the 17^th century with parades, corned beef and cabbage and the wearing of green.

In addition to St. Patrick’s Day, there are many symbols that have become synonymous with Ireland and Irish cultural heritage.

• The Claddagh Ring, traditionally associated with marriage, has a heart representing love, the hands friendship and the crown loyalty and can be worn to reveal a relationship status.
• The Celtic Cross or Irish Cross is a Christian symbol associated with Celtic Christianity. The four arms may signify the directions of a compass with a halo, representing unity at the junction.
• The Triquetra or Trinity Knot has many interpretations of its meaning, all of which include three entities in one symbol and is why it is likely to have been adopted as a Christian symbol.

Stop in to Bridgewaters to check out these Irish symbols and find the one that suits you!