Hi! I am Karen, the founder of Gratia.
Welcome to our humble store, we are pleased to have you here.
I was born and raised a Catholic in Sabah but encountered God for the first time when I was 20. It was during a mission trip with FOCUS (Fellowship of Catholic University Students) in Miri where God revealed Himself and His intimate love for me. Since then, my life was transformed into one of hope and joy, as I had found the missing piece of my heart. On this same mission trip, the FOCUS team leader, Stephanie, taught us how to make knotted rosaries for the locals in the villages. Creating and giving brought me joy.
Since then, I have made many knotted rosaries, rosary bracelets and pocket rosaries to my friends in university, hoping that these little items may serve them well. From just being a little hobby of mine, the passion grew and I took a lot of courage to start a tiny business with my knotted rosaries, which then, came later, some additions to the family: beaded rosaries, bracelets, temporary tattoos, keychains etc.
Photographer: Stefanus Able.
Gratia was able to grow mostly because of the overwhelming love and support we received from our surroundings and strangers-turned acquaintances. Our hearts are always filled with gratitude for each and everyone of you, and we hope to continue serving you with our Catholic items made with the utmost love and care.