Incorporating the Faith in Daily Wear

Christie Anne interviews Catholic creative Jessica Connolly from Telos Art Shop.

Perhaps one of the easiest ways to spot another Catholic mom in a crowd is through the religious jewelry she wears. After all, if you spot another woman wearing a cross necklace, she is most likely Protestant, but if she is wearing a crucifix necklace then she is definitely Catholic. For centuries, Catholics have surrounded themselves with sacred images in order to be reminded of our faith, of Heaven above. The beauty we sense and admire through art, jewelry, and icons may lead to veneration and prayer. They also serve as ways of evangelization. You never know what conversation could be sparked by, “I love your necklace/art/bumper sticker.”

Jewelry in particular is a way to be reminded of the Faith throughout the day. Each time a young child grasps a necklace, mothers are reminded. When it slips out and dangles while folding laundry, another reminder. Throughout the day those simple reminders can lead to short prayers— – a “thank you,” a simple glance at Jesus. Jessica Connolly knows this as well, and has made it her mission to bring beautiful jewelry through her business, Telos Art. Earlier this month I interviewed Jessica to learn more about her vision and the importance of incorporating the faith in daily wear.

Jessica Connolly and baby

What inspired you to create Catholic jewelry? What is your background in jewelry?

Growing up, my grandmother was the only Catholic influence I had in my life. She taught me several prayers and featured Catholic art in her home. Her copper Sacred Heart art is now hanging in my studio. She must have been praying all along for the conversion of her granddaughters, because both my sister and I converted as adults. My own conversion in 2011 led me back to more hands-on creative pursuits, including painting and jewelry making.

After inheriting some of my grandmother's costume jewelry, I decided to repurpose vintage medals into new designs. My sister and I had made beaded jewelry growing up, so I started with the tools and supplies we had on hand. It has been a powerful gift for me to be able to put these charisms back into my work. It is a great way to talk about the faith with my kids because they love learning about the stories behind all the medals.

How did you come up with the name Telos Art?

My own fascination with beauty and nature has always led me to unique encounters with the Lord. So, naturally I was drawn to the transcendentalism of the Catholic Church as the pursuit of beauty is a means to a better understanding of God's truth and goodness. To know that Beauty has a greater purpose; to lead us to a higher end. Initially, I had named my graphic design company Telos Design, but the jewelry shop is really what took roots and fits my charisms of service and craftsmanship.

mother and child necklace

Tell me more about the importance of incorporating the Catholic faith in everyday wear. How do you believe it can draw us closer to God?

If you are going to wear jewelry anyway, wouldn't you prefer that it has a deeper meaning? Catholic accessories remind us of how close we are to the Heart of Jesus; that we are protected by Mary's Mantle. It can also be an easy way to talk with others about the truth and goodness in our faith through the beautiful symbolism reflected in Catholic jewelry. Many people recount stories to me about conversations they have had with strangers or discussions they have had with their own children about the jewelry they choose to wear. Jewelry is not only what is passed along to our family, but ultimately the connection to the faith found in these sacramentals.

Do you have any new releases coming up?

We just released a new version of our Madonna and Child pendant in a gold-filled medal. This is an incredibly meaningful gift for Mother's Day, a unique necklace for expectant mothers, or a special comfort for those experiencing loss or infertility.

We have also reopened our subscriptions for our 2022 Quarterly Subscription Boxes. Our liturgically themed Quarterly Subscription Boxes are truly unique to Telos Art! Each quarter a new item will arrive in the mail with a handcrafted piece of jewelry and a special note behind the inspiration. New subscriptions will receive all three of the remaining quarterly boxes for 2022! Another great gift idea for a loved one or for yourself.

Where can people find you? How can they stay in the know?

The best way to stay connected to our shop is through our newsletter.

Our online boutique is TelosArtShop.com.

Or through social media, via Instagram: @telosart.

For $5 off any order, you can enter discount code CHRISTIE5 at checkout. This coupon code never expires.

Sacred Heart pendant