The Beads of Christ - the meaning of the beads

The Beads of Christ, "Frälsarkransen", is a modern rosary with 18 beads of varying colour and meaning.

1. Bead of God
The golden bead reminds us that there is someone always walking with us and watching over us. This is the beginning and end of the Beads of Christ, its origin and destination.

2. Beads of Silence
Constant striving and stress are two characteristics that permeate modern society. The six beads of silence are there to remind us of the importance of stillness, of turning off our churning thoughts and constant need to perform, and just be.

3. The Me-bead
This shimmering little bead turns our minds inward, to who we are when our outward roles and masks are stripped away. It reminds us that we are created in God's image.

4. Bead of Baptism
The white bead challenges us to have the courage to start all over again. It carries baptism's promise of infinite mercy and forgiveness. It is never too late.

5. Bead of the Desert
This sand coloured bead symbolises obstacles, those moments when life seems most of all like a desert. But accepting difficulties is the first step towards overcoming them.

6. Bead of Serenity
The sky blue bead is life's rest stop. Here, in the calm, we nourish our zest and thirst for life. Here we can relax. Here there are no demands. Enjoy.

7. Beads of Love
There is space in every life for love, those we love and those who love us. There are two beads of love. To love, that is life's great and free-flowing gift.

8. Beads of Mystery
Three small beads hold the innermost secrets of the heart, those things we never talk about with anyone. The mystery bead with a hint of green speaks of compassion and care for all of Creation.

9. Bead of the Night
The black bead represents the heaviest and darkest of life's moments. But to enjoy the daylight we must first go through the night. God is never gone.

10. Bead of Resurrection
The white bead represents the victory of good over evil, hope defeating worry and fear. It carries peace and light. Night is over. The morning has come. Here flows light and life.

Bishop Emeritus Martin Lönnebo has created a contemporary rosary or prayer garland with a bead for each moment. You may carry it wherever you go. Touch the beads now and then, stay in touch with your prayers and dreams. Or reserve a time every day for silence and sharing with God.

The garland is crafted by Tara Projects in India according to the guidelines for Fairtrade.

The meaning of the beads - print pdf.

Frälsarkransen - Pärlornas betydelse på Svenska (pdf)