Chrismons Explained
In 1956 Frances Kipps Spencer volunteered to decorate a tree at The Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Ascension in Danville, VA. While searching for a way to truly express and honor the glory of The Lord she discovered some drawings of chrisma that she adapted for use as ornaments.
According to Ms Spencer, in her book Chrismons Basic Series, Womack Press, Danville, VA, a chrismon (chrisma pl.) is a monogram for Christ. The word chrismon is a combination of the two words CHRISt MONogram. Many of the descriptions given here are quotations from Ms Spencer’s book.
Each chrismon is, in some way, either a true monogram for Christ or a symbol of, or for, The Lord. The chrismons on the Holy Spirit tree were made by several members according to Ms Spencer’s directions.
Cross and Chi
This symbol combines the cross with the Greek letter Chi which is the monogram for Christ.
Fish
One of the most ancient symbols for our Lord, the Greek word for fish, ΙΧΘΫC forms an acrostic on the first letters of, "Jesus Christ, God's Son, Savior."
Crown
The crown represents the Kingship of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Chi in Eternity
Chi is the first letter in the Greek word for Christ. The circle represents eternity; God the only eternal One, or eternal life with God.
Host & Cup
The body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ sacrificed for our sin.
Entwined Circles
Circles always portray perfection and eternity. These three are intertwined to symbolize our triune God, “ever three and ever one; Father, Son and Holy Spirit.”
Passion Cross and Cup
The cup symbolizes the cup of His blood shed for our sins.
Passion Cross
This pointed cross, also called the Cross of Suffering, reminds us of the points of the nails, spear, and thorns that were used to torture our Lord.
Chi
Chi is the first letter in the Greek word for CHrist. The circle represents eternity; God the only eternal One, or eternal life with God.
Chi Rho
Chi and Rho are the first letters in the Greek name for CHRist. They may also represent the Latin phrase Christus Rex for "Christ the King.
Epiphany Star
This five point star was guide to the Wise Men seeking the birth of a new King.
Triquetra
Three equal arcs combine to form a unified shape, a symbol of the triune God who reveals Himself to man in three separate yet unified persons.
Iota Chi
Iota is the first letter of our Lord's given name, Jesus, in Greek. Chi is the first letter in the Greek word for his title, Christ.
Latin Cross with Base
This Latin Cross (an extension above the horizontal and longer base extension) is the most familiar to us. The base upon which the cross stands elevates and venerates this symbol.
Anchor Cross
Also known as the Cross of Hope, this symbol marks the hope of the world. The cross rises from a crescent moon which is a symbol for the mother of our Lord.
Cross in Glory
The rising sun behind this Easter cross suggests the new day when He conquered death by His Resurrection.
Greek Cross Crowned
This balanced cross with all extensions equal was favored by Greek artists. This cross is crowned indicating His royal position at the right hand of the Father.
Dove and Host
The descending dove is, of course, the symbol for the Holy Spirit which descends from heaven to the earth. The Host represents “the body of Christ which was broken for us.”
Jerusalem Cross
Four Tau Crosses meet to form this cross. Tau Crosses indicate, “Salvation promised but not yet accomplished.” The five intersections remind one of the five wounds of Christ.
Chi Rho on Cross Plaque
Chi and Rho are the first letters in the Greek name for CHRist. They may also represent the Latin phrase Christus Rex for "Christ the King.
Baptismal Star
This pre-Christian symbol was drawn in a single stroke without lifting the tool from the surface. To Christians persecuted by Roman domination, this symbol surreptitiously contained the Cross and the monograms Chi, and Rho. To modern Christians is symbolizes rebirth through baptism.