It is a sermon in color, in form, and in feeling. It tells the entire story of the Christian life in a single image. At the center of it all, there is a black cross inside a red heart. The black cross reminds us of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, the suffering and sacrifice that purchased our salvation. The red heart represents faith that is alive and beating with love. Faith in the crucified Christ is not a dead faith. It is vibrant, growing, and full of love for God and for others. The cross may weigh upon the heart, but it never destroys it. Instead, it gives it life. Surrounding that heart is a white rose. The white rose shows that faith brings joy, comfort, and peace that the world cannot give. Its white color represents purity, the righteousness of Christ given to us as a gift. When faith blossoms, it does so in calmness, serenity, and grace. Behind the rose lies a field of blue. The blue stands for heaven and for the promise of eternal life. It reminds us that the joy and peace we have here are only the beginning of what awaits us in God’s presence. Encircling it all is a ring of gold. Gold is precious, pure, and without end. It represents eternity and the perfection of God’s love. It holds everything together, just as His grace holds together every moment of our lives. So when you look upon this symbol, see it for what it truly is. It is a confession carved not only in metal or gem, but in the very heart of every believer. The cross reminds us of our salvation. The heart reminds us of living faith. The rose reminds us of peace and joy. The blue reminds us of heaven. And the gold reminds us that God’s love never ends. This is the faith we confess. This is the hope we hold. This is the meaning of the Lutheran Rose, a masterpiece of faith, art, and everlasting truth. Amen. - Fabric composition in the EU: 96% polyester, 4% spandex - Fabric composition in the US: 93% polyester, 7% spandex - Fabric weight in the EU: 6.34 oz./yd.² (215 g/m²) - Fabric weight in the US: 7.08 oz./yd.² (240 g/m²) - Premium knit mid-weight jersey - Smooth, comfortable 2-way stretch fabric that stretches and recovers on the cross and lengthwise grains - Regular fit