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Chrismon means monogram for Christ.  Symbols of our faith are used to help us keep in memory why we celebrate this holy season.

Frances Kipps Spencer at Ascension Lutheran Church in Danville, Virginia.is credited with developing the Chrismon. According to some sources, she originated them in 1957 when she set out to create decorations appropriate for a church Christmas tree.

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Kathy Scott is the “Keeper of the Chrismons” and when more need to be made, she prepares individual packages of materials AND instructions and checks them out to willing workers. It’s neat to hear Church members looking for “their” Chrismons each year when the trees are decorated!

The following is an explanation of the different symbols:

Chi Rho

Greek for Christ

Fish

(1) First letters of Greek word for Jesus Christ form the letter fish.

(2) Peter, a disciple, was a fisherman.

Orb

Christ’s sovereignty over the world.

Shell

Symbol of baptism.

Triangle

Trinity; three parts united into a perfect whole.

Lamb

Meekness, sacrifice; Christ giving Himself up for humanity.

Bird (Dove)

Symbol of the Holy Spirit

Butterfly

Symbol of the resurrection and new life.

Star

“5-pointed star”.  Manifestation to the Wise Men of the Christ child.

Circle (sm.)

Christ child in manger.

Cross

Latin cross, most widely used form of the cross among Christians.

Shamrock

Trinity, used by Saint Patrick to illustrate the Trinity in his preaching.

Chalice

Symbol for the Lord’s Supper—Holy Communion

Tau Cross

A symbol for advent, anticipation of prophecy yet to be fulfilled.

Looped Cross

The loop added to the prophetic cross.

Leaf

Representing new life and growth.

Lamp

A symbol of wisdom and knowledge.

Also, “The Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light to my path.” 

(Ps. 119:115)

Jerusalem Cross

Representing the five wounds of Christ and used as a symbol for Lent.

Anchor Cross

A Christian symbol signifying hope.

Note:  Chrismon symbols are to be made in white fabric (Felt or Satin).  Where trim is appropriate,

use only gold or white beads, clear crystals  or pearls.