Beauty behind the bloom: Easter flowers symbolize new life

THE WOODLANDS, Texas -- You know they're beautiful and that this is a popular time of year for them, but do you know why?

Easter lilies have significant roots in the Christian faith.

"Out of the cold earth comes the beauty of new life," said the Rev. Dr. Gerry Sevick of Trinity Episcopal Church in The Woodlands. "Not only is Christ resurrected on Easter, but we too are rebirthed. We receive new life."

Several legends refer to the origin of the lily: The first lilies appeared when Eve shed tears after being cast out of the Garden of Eden, or lilies appeared after Christ shed drops of sweat onto the earth during the crucifixion.

Lilies are referenced in religious materials, Rev. Sevick said, such as in the Song of Solomon and the Prophet Hosea (14:5).

The Easter lily is sometimes referred to as the Madonna Lily, said Cherie Colburn, member and volunteer at Faith Bible Church in The Woodlands.

But they are two different species of lily, said Colburn, a professional landscape designer and co-author of a book about heirloom bulbs.

Both, however, symbolize the Virgin Mary.

"Legend says the Madonna lily was the flower given to the Virgin Mary by the Angel Gabriel when he announced she would be the mother of Christ," Colburn said. "Another legend tells us that after Jesus' death, when the women returned to his tomb on the third day, all that was found was a bed of white lilies. This is why the lily symbolizes Easter."

Colburn said use of the lily actually dates back to before the time of Christ.

"It was believed lilies had properties of healing," Colburn said. "People would place lilies on the graves of loved ones, or deceased persons would hold a lily at burial so they would be well in the next life."

Colburn said that floriography, which is the language of flowers, includes another Easter favorite – tulips, which symbolize passion, belief and love.

"You might see red, white and purple tulips together," Colburn said. "This is more about color than the actual flower itself. White is forgiveness, red is perfect love, and purple represents royalty."

Whether it's lilies or tulips, the overall meaning behind springtime flowers is the same.

"Stay rooted in calmness, don't be anxious," Rev. Sevick said. "That is the message God has for us."

Easter Events in The Woodlands

Be sure to explore the Woodlands Online Easter Guide for events all around The Woodlands this Easter Weekend.