Our Story - Calvary Evangelical Lutheran Church

Our Story
Calvary Evangelical Lutheran Church
Chrismons
2012
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About This Booklet
This booklet is an attempt to gather information about our Chrismons here at Calvary
and put it all together in one place. We hope this provides a format that everyone can
use and help us to understand the significance of this tradition.
This year is the 45th anniversary of the Chrismon Tree at Calvary! We want to
preserve our history while much of the information is still available. It is by no means
complete, it is just a start. If you find any errors or see anything that needs corrected
please don’t hesitate to let us know. If you have ideas about other things to add, or
want to submit some history or stories for future editions please submit them so they
may be considered.
We would like to thank everyone that has helped make this what it is. The idea for
doing this was thought about a long time ago but we got a late start on it for this year
so we are sure that are many things that will need to be revised.
Thanks to Brenda Dardinger for her leadership in making this happen and all the folks
that have contributed. We also want to thank all those people that have, over the
years, cared for and maintained the Chrismons and the tradition here at Calvary.
Without their dedication none of this would be possible.
For corrections, ideas and suggestions please send them to Brenda Dardinger or the
church office.
Creation of this booklet and maintenance of the Chrismons is not without cost. If you
would like to make a donation to help preserve this tradition it would be much
appreciated.
The Editors
November 2012
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The History of the Chrismon Tree
When churches decorated for Christmas in the 1950’s a bare fir tree was used without
lights. The tree would be decorated with ornaments without special meaning or ones
the children had made in Sunday school classes. Frances Kipps Spencer decided the
Christmas tree at her church, Ascension Lutheran Church in Danville, Virginia, should
be decorated with ornaments that would honor Christ. Mrs. Frances Spencer asked
her pastor if she could create some kind of decorations for their tree for the following
year. She felt deeply that there should be some other ways to worship the Christ Child
at Christmas with a true meaning of the season. Drawing from basic Christian symbols
that became popular under the Roman emperor Constantine the Great following his
conversion to Christianity in the fourth century, she designed numerous ornaments.
Spencer’s designs became Chrismons that adorned the tree in 1957, at Ascension
Lutheran Church.
For months she began researching to come up with an idea how to decorate the
church’s tree. As she was researching she discovered ancient drawings called
chrisma. These drawings were done by some of the earliest Christians. Early
Christians came up with these designs to help them identify themselves to each other,
to designate meeting places of the church, and sometimes to show unbelievers where
they stood. Even more important, these symbols of the early church served to transmit
the faith and beliefs to the viewer. Her inspiration was shared and passed on and she
discovered many which could be designed into ornaments for a tree.
The word “Chrismon” (Kriz’mon) is a combination of two words: CHRISt and
MONogram. A Chrismon is a Christian symbol representing Jesus Christ. The
designs were quite beautiful and they would make lovely Christmas tree decorations.
More than that, though, it occurred to Mrs. Spencer that by using these early signs of
our faith to decorate the tree, it would bring out distinctly the real reason that we
celebrate Christmas day. Mrs. Spencer hoped that such a Christmas tree would not
only be worthy of being placed in the Lord’s house but would also contribute to the
spirit of worship during this holy season. As she viewed the designs she decided to
make patterns for the ornaments. The designs were made into patterns with directions
on how to create Chrismons to decorate the church’s tree.
Ascension Lutheran Church holds the copyright for all of the designs of Frances Kipps
Spencer. As more Chrismons developed it was decided to put all the patterns into
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books. The books were published for other churches to create their own church
Chrismon tree and over five books came to life with pattern, meaning and instructions
for the Chrismons. The only limitation was that none of the Chrismons would be made
to be sold and that an explanation of the symbols be given to all those who view the
tree so they may interpret the real meaning of the symbols. Churches had the
opportunity to request permission to make the Chrismon by writing to the Lutheran
Church of the Ascension.
Her new ministry caught on quickly and soon Spencer was struggling to keep up with
inquiries about where to find the beads and other materials. She began searching for
beads. The flower child and love beads movement started in the sixties with the love
for beads being very popular. You could purchase love beads anywhere due to fact
everyone was making their own necklaces and bracelets out of seed, glass, wood and
Indian beads. Frances Spencer was visiting friends in Salisbury, North Caroline. That’s
when she met the owner of Rufty’s Garden Shop, Mr. Harold Rufty. She told him the
story behind the Chrismons and showed samples of her work. He was impressed. He
had a desire to help Mrs. Spencer in her task. Mr. Rufty search for beads to be use on
Chrismon by traveling to New York, Hong Kong, and Taiwan. He found different types
and sizes of gold and white items for the making of Chrismons. The Rufty’s became
the main supplier for material to make Chrismons. Mrs. Spencer gave Mr. Rufty’s the
permission and blessing to use Chrismon in the store name. The Rufty’s Garden Shop
name change to the Rufty’s Chrismon Shop still in business today, run by his daughter.
Chrismons became Christmas ornaments for churches and many Christian homes.
When the ornaments on a Christmas tree are comprised mostly of Christian symbols,
the tree is known as a "Chrismon tree”. The symbols used represent a variety of
biblical and theological concepts that are well known among most believers. The
designs were a perfect way to add to worship service for the Christ Child during Advent
and Christmas plus add beauty to the tree and sanctuary.
The Chrismons are made of combinations of white and gold. White, the liturgical color
for Christmas, refers to our Lord’s purity and perfection; gold, to His majesty and glory.
The use of tiny white lights on the tree points to the Christ as the Light of the world. It
was felt the tiny white lights carries out the idea of Martin Luther, who was reputed to
have inventing the first decorated Christmas tree, with small candles. The Chrismon
tree is complete only when those who see it understand its meaning. So teaching and
explaining the designs is very important.
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Today the Rufty’s Chrismon Shop has classes teaching young and old people on
making Chrismons. The Shop follows Mrs. Spencer desire to teach the special
meaning of each Chrismon so when you look at the Chrismon you understand the
story behind it. The store is open for the public to visit or you can go on line to see their
beautiful collection. You can purchase all the supplies in one place if you want to follow
Spencer’s patterns. Or you can purchase Rufty’s simpler design of Chrismons they
have designed which they call Christian Symbols. Confident they have Mrs. Spencer’s
blessings in doing this and keeping the tradition of the Chrismons alive today. Back in
2002 they started designing simpler ornaments with the angel being the first. They are
still designing and putting the beads into kits for purchase. The kits come complete and
never leave without the true special meaning of the Chrismon.
During the Advent Season the churches around the area of the Rufty’s Chrismon Shop
hold Open Houses in hope of explaining the Chrismons to those who come with a
booklet explaining their story. Many of the local churches have several trees dressed
in white lights and Chrismons.
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Our Story
Our story of the Chrismon tree at Calvary began in1966. Addie Curry was working at
the VA hospital as a Gray Lady. One of her co-workers and friend brought in a
Chrismon that she had made for her own church. When Addie saw the Chrismon and
heard the story she thought that Calvary could have a beautiful tree to share the story
of Christ. Addie thought it would be a way to beautify our sanctuary and teach the story
of the biblical symbols to all members, young and old. So Addie took the idea to the
ladies of Calvary at one of the meetings and the ladies agreed that it was a wonderful
way to decorate the church at Christmas and a way to educate members on the
symbols. So Addie Curry wrote a letter asking permission from the Lutheran Church of
the Ascension that held the copyrights. Once the written permission came back the
ladies were ready to get to work. They purchased several instructions books, saved old
pearls from jewelry, and other material.
Material used to construct the Chrismons were white Styrofoam, pearls, gold mesh,
gold sequins, white fringe braids, white sequins, gold fringe, beads, and wires. These
ladies Addie Curry, Jody Bain, Zellene Specht, Dorotha Young, Grace Hood, Hazel
Mount, Mildred Chenault, Teddy Adkins, Natalie McWilliams, Jean River, Alice Terry,
Ardith Lange, Lucy Peddicord, Edith Hartman, Blanch Maul, Peggy Hageman, Nellie
Overly and Marge Mathchinski were busy cutting, wiring, sewing, gluing, and putting
the Chrismons together. They met in the old basement under the chapel to share items
and work on the different designs. On some days they would start in the morning with a
brown bag lunch and work to the middle of the afternoon. They were dedicated to
complete enough to be used on a tree. Some of the Chrismon had two ladies working
on it to get it complete. That is how the first Chrismon tree at Calvary Church came
about in1967. Addie Curry made the first Chrismon, the fish in a circle. The ladies
made 60 to 80 Chrismons that year. Which we still use the majority today. The tree
was decorated by the some of the ladies who made the Chrismons and so the tradition
began.
The first Chrismon tree was a cut fresh fir tree in 1967. The ladies ask Buzz Knoles
and his Sunday school class of Senior High students to cut a fir tree for the church. So
another tradition began with Buzz Knoles and his class going in search of the perfect
tree for the sanctuary. Carl Daughters wasn’t a member of Calvary but a friend of
Buzz Knoles. He gave them permission to come to his farm to harvest a tree, which
they did for years. They would set up the tree in the stand for the decorating
committee. The youth would celebrate the task with hot chocolate and cookies in the
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basement afterwards. All of this turned into a tradition for the class to pick out, cut and
prepare the tree. Buzz Knoles ask Steve Dardinger to join him to be a teacher in 198.1
So Steve would help with the judging the size of the tree for the sanctuary. Some
years Buzz had church members that would donate a tree from their yards to be use
as the Christmas tree which Buzz and the class would go harvest. Buzz always
checked out the tree to make sure it would be just the right size and it was an honor to
have your tree used as the Chrismon tree. Sometimes Buzz’s eyes would fail him and
the tree would be so large it would not fit through the front door and down the aisle and
would need several cutting to get it down to a size that would fit. Steve, Buzz and the
youth enjoyed the challenge and once the tree was set up, watered, and safe from
tumbling down. Sometimes after all the many cutting, the tree shape was in need of
help. Al Heierman would then wire branches to the trunk filling in the empty spaces
and shaping it in the bare spots. Then the crew of decorators began their magic. The
tree was decorated without lights for many years.
In 1967, the ladies prepared a booklet telling the story of the Chrismons. The hope of
Mrs. Spencer was that the Chrismon Tree would be complete only when those who
saw them understood the symbolism of the ornaments. The Service of the Chrismons
was December 17, 1967 with an open house on the 18th to 23rd. The ladies created
over thirty different designs; more than seventy five Chrismons. Some of these
monograms took over twenty-five hours to complete. The booklet was given to those
who came to the service and open house. Another open house was in 1968.
These first Chrismons, tell the story of Christ’s life are treasures and special in many
ways. The ladies of our church, with love of God and Calvary not only learned about
the Chrismons but also made a great tool to reach others about Christ’s life through
these symbols. Each Chrismons took hours of work to making them which are
“priceless”. They were precious gems for the ladies and the church. The Chrismons
were cared for by Addie Curry who was a protective mother to them and kept them at
her house for over fifteen years. She mapped out a way the Chrismons should be
placed on the tree so little ones could see the manger with star above and lambs close
by. The children would be able to recognize and understand the meaning. One of the
crowns should be on the top of the tree.
Addie Curry helped with the tree for many years and felt it was her ministry to the
church (and others). When her husband Elmer couldn’t climb the ladder she seek
others to help like Al Heierman, Pat Heierman, Joan May, Jim May then she was the
supervisor over the task. She took lots of pride and joy in helping, teaching and telling
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others about the fellowship they all had in making the Chrismons. She loved to see the
tree going up in the sanctuary even when she wasn’t able to help. In later years, due to
health issues she had to stop climbing the ladder and decorating the tree so the honor
was given to younger ones. Yet she was always thrilled to see the tree decorated with
the Chrismons. She was proud of her friends who help in making her dream come true.
In 1980, the Sunday school classes made their own Chrismon tree in the Briggs
building. Addie Curry encouraged the teachers by helping them choose easy patterns
for little hands to duplicate, such as the lamb or crosses. The children learn the
meaning of the Chrismons as they created them and it was a great way to teach the
children so when they saw the big Chrismon tree in the sanctuary, they understood the
meaning of the Chrismons and the history behind the special tree.
Members have organized, repaired and cared for these precious ornaments over the
past forty-five years. Once Addie Curry decided it was time for the Chrismons to find a
new home at the church for storage. The Chrismons were stored in several different
places in the church or Briggs Building. Dave Riley built cupboards so they could be
stored away together in a dry, cool, and safe place. Today, the cupboards are in the
Briggs Education Building upstairs area. All the Chrismons are stored in it. The ladies
took great care in training younger members to take on the joy of the Chrismon tree by
training them how to handle the Chrismons, where to place them on the tree, and to
teach them all the things they would need to know the proper way to repair the
Chrismons as well as to educate them with the rich story. The true value of the
Chrismons is the teaching, learning and in the working together wonderful fellowship
with fellow believers and sharing the story of Christ is a different and unique way. Al
and Pat Heierman, Jim and Joan May, Dana and Betty Burlile, Dave and Shirley Riley,
Emily Nugent, Buzz and Marlene Knoles, and Dick & Connie Senter were a few of the
congregation that have contributed in the past few years to Calvary’s tradition of the
Chrismon tree. Their trainer was Addie Curry.
Many members of Calvary have stepped forward to continue the traditions of the
Chrismon tree. It was not easy to follow in the original group of ladies footsteps. As the
passing of the torch took place, so did the desire to repair and add new ones to the
collection. Joan May requested and received permission to make new ones for those
which needed to be replaced. She organized a seminar in the old church basement.
Members of Calvary gathered and made several Chrismons to add to the collection.
The 1990’s the decorating committee decided to purchase an artificial tree. In many
ways this would be easier for the committee, the artificial tree could be up longer
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period of time without dropping pine needles, the branches wouldn’t be sagging
causing Chrismons to fall and possible break. So the tree was purchased by the
decorating committee members. It was a large tree with each branch needing to be
placed on the base of the tree. Joan May was able to convince the committee to put
white lights. Many sets of light would be weaved in the branches then placing of the
Chrismons. The decorating committee would take a day to set the tree up with lights,
come back the next day to put the Chrismons on the tree and decorate the rest of the
sanctuary. It was a two days event if not three. The best part of having an artificial tree
was the fewer pine needles to clean up afterwards when they were taking it down.
In 1996 Joan May organized a group, the second generation of ladies to repair a few of
the old Chrismons and to make new ones. They met in the old basement just like the
original group. Ruth Black, Mary Webb, Melody Knoles and others made new ones to
add to the collection. They were inspired to craft some new designs, too.
As the congregation moved from the old sanctuary into the new one, another idea
came to purchase an artificial pre-lit tree. It would be easier and faster for the
decorating committee. The new sanctuary with its high ceiling would allow a 12 feet
tree. The tree was purchased by members of the congregation and fits perfectly in the
new sanctuary. Joan May made the beautiful white felt tree skirt with all beads sewn on
in back in 2003.
Over the past decade the second generation of the decorating committee has begun
stepping down to allow younger legs to climb the ladders and decorate the tree. These
folks have taken great care of the Chrismons by providing a storage place plus
organizing boxes with the names and numbers of Chrismon in each one. Joan May did
a great job by using clean 10” pizza boxes as storage for each of the Chrismons. She
has photos of the Chrismons in the boxes and has marked the outside with the
information of the Chrismons contained inside. She has index cards with information
about the Chrismon, such as who made it and when and some of the Bible verses that
describe or pertain to the Chrismon in the boxes also. She placed the original index
cards that Addie Curry had typed with information about the Chrismon in the correct
box.
So it is time for the third generation to start to move forward and fill the shoes of the
ones that came before and to educate all members with our story and tradition. Buzz &
Marlene Knoles, Dick & Connie Senter, Mike & Kay Northrup, Doug & Cheryl Elson,( a
few of the second generation) Jim & Brenda Segelhorst, Ken & Pat Tomko, Brian
Knoles, Barbara Rasmussen, Steve and Brenda Dardinger, plus many others are
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learning the correct way to care for and place them on the tree. The committee’s goal
is to learn so we can teach others about Our Story: the Chrismons, Calvary’s
treasures. We need to learn and understand the meanings so we can share with others
our story so the next generation after us can care for our Chrismons and help others as
well worship Our Savior and celebrate His birth. Perhaps this, or another, generation
will be brave enough to make some new ones!
While the Chrismons were first intended to be meaningful decorations for the members
of Ascension Lutheran Church only, they have become a means of inspirations and
instruction for us at Calvary Lutheran Church as well. We have built our own Christmas
programs and celebrations around the Chrismon tree. We have held several open
houses to allow the community to come and see the beautiful tree. As visitors view the
tree it is explained that it is not only beautiful but also has a story to tell. The
Heierman’s, and the May’s created several guides for the open houses back over the
years and shared their knowledge with those who came to see the tree. The open
houses were for the church and several times open to the community. The lighted tree
gives us the opportunity to appreciate our heritage and tradition here at Calvary and to
Share God’s Grace with others.
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FISH IN A CIRCLE
Fish is one of the most ancient of a secret symbol for our Lord. In the Catacombs of
Rome fish were drawn on the walls to direct worshippers to secret meeting places. A
fish not only symbolizes Christ in various acts, but also refers to his teachings and
explains doctrines. Even when a small number of fish are used, it is a strong confession
of faith and affirmation of the basic doctrine of Christianity. The letters of the Greek
word fish (IXOYC) are the Greek initials for “Jesus Christ, God’s Son, Savior.” (I-IOTA, XChi, O-THETA, Y-UPSILON, C-SIGMA). Those in authority suggest a complex set of
meanings centered on the fish, (His miracles, His fishermen disciples, the curiosity of a
being who can live in an element-water-in which man dies, among other ideas of that
age and culture), but it was a symbol first; the acrostic was worked out later. It is
believed that Addie Curry made the fish in the circle as her first Chrismon in 1967. The
fish in the circle with IXOYC has small pearls belonged to Addie Curry and Hazel Mount’s
mother Alice McFerrin.
Grace Hood made this one in 1967
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THE STYLIZED FISH
Early Christians used the fish widely as an easily made and recognized secret sign. During the
times of the persecution of the early church, the Christian could find one another by saying
this simple pass-word, IXOYC. To the outsider, the fish was a mere decoration, but to the
Christian it held a deeper significance. Centuries later, in 1963 a news story reported that
Cuban Christians, when they found themselves in a situation similar to those faced by the first
Christians, revived the use of the fish as an emblem. The Greek word for fish-ICHTHUS- is an
anagram for Jesus, Christ, Son of God, and Savior. The stylized fish below was made by Hazel
Mount in 1967.
FISH BEARING BASKET OF BREAD (ABOVE)
Moderns are less accustomed to use of the fish to symbolize the Christ. For them, a fish
carrying a basket of bread evokes a recollection of Jesus ‘miracle when He fed the multitudes.
The meaning intended in the use of this symbol in the catacombs, however, is much deeper:
the fish bearing a basket of bread is a Eucharistic (communion) symbol. Our Lord Himself is
the food, the Bread of Life. In His Incarnation (fish) He gave Himself for us. He took bread,
blessed it and broke it and gave it the disciples saying “this is my body given for you.” Luke
22:19. Often a wine glass is included in the basket. This clarifies the sacramental reference.
Thus, the fish with a basket of bread on its back is a reminder of our Lord’s presence in Holy
Communion, of our Lord’s gift of Himself for us. The two gold fish with baskets were made by
Hazel Mount 1967.
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THREE FISH
Three fish united to form a circle or triangle. We can easily see our Savior’s activities but we
tend to forget that three persons of the Trinity participate in our redemption. The use of three
fish reminds us that all three persons of the Triune contribute to our salvation; the Father
loves and gives; the Son is the means; the spirit calls and helps us to respond. The triangular
look of the design emphasizes the fact that, although each person does His specific work, all
act to make one complete and perfect whole. In the union of the fish in a circle we recognize
the eternity of the one God. These three fish united to form a circle were made by Vi Phillips
and Hazel Mount in 1967 and Mary Webb in 1996.
CROWN OF THORNS WITH I.N.R.I
The Crown of Thorns symbolizes the passion of Jesus. Christ’s suffering for us. The Chrismon
shows the crucifixion of Jesus with the I.N.R.I meaning Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews.
The pearls used to spell out I.N.R.I belonged to the late Florence Knost and the Chrismon made
by Addie Curry in 1972.
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THE CROWN
The crown is a symbol of the Kingship of our Lord. Jesus the Christ, King of kings and Lord of
lords. Christ’s victory over sin and death, His place of honor at the right hand of God. I
Timothy 6:15 “and this will be made manifest at the proper time by the blessed and only
Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords”, Rev. 1:18 “Fear not, I am the first and last and
the Living one; I died and behold I am alive for evermore, and I have the keys of Death and
Hades”, Rom. 8:34 “It is God who justifies; who is to condemn? It is Christ Jesus who died, yes,
who raised from the dead who is at the right hand of God, who indeed intercedes for us? “
Mildred Chenault mad the two top crowns in 1967 and Shirley Riley made the last crown in
1996.
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CIRCLE WITH MONOGRAMS, CROSSES AND OTHER SYMBOLS
The dominant feature of this group of Chrismons is the white foam circle. Because it is
endless, the circle can symbolize eternity and by extension, God, the only Eternal One. The
circle may suggest eternal life with God. The circle itself may be decorated with different
symbols; various designs may be placed inside it. Among the latter are styrofoam crosses or
Chi’s and monograms of single or woven lines of gold or pearl beads. The outer edge of the
circle can be adorned with clusters of three beads. It says; the person whose birth is
celebrated is a man whose given name is Jesus. He is a special man –the Christ-the promised
Messiah. More than that, though, the circle declares He is the Son of God and God Himself.
He lives eternally in the one God who shows Himself to mankind in three ways-as the Father,
as the Son and as the Spirit.
The inner center of the circle may have one or two crosses. At the center of the circle, a
butterfly, rose or beads brings your eye to another symbol inside the circle. The butterfly
represents our Lord’s Resurrection; also the resurrection of those who die in Christ. The rose
represents the Nativity of our Lord, also our Lord’s mother, Mary. Isaiah 35:1 Those below
were made by Addie Curry, Dortha Young, and Jean River in 1967 and Melody Knoles in 1996.
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CROSS IN CIRCLE
The circle which is endless, symbolized eternity. By extension it can also symbolize God. The
crosses in the center are the Latin Cross and the Greek Cross. The two circle with cross in the
center, the middle photo were made by Addie Curry in 1967.
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CROSS OVER THE WORLD, TRIUMPHANT CROSS AND/OR VICTORY CROSS
Artists often depict our Lord holding an orb (the world) topped by the cross to symbolize His
dominion over all the earth. The cross stands for Christ and the world by a ball or orb,
symbolizing the triumph of the Savior over the sins of the world. Cross standing over the
World representing Christ over the world. Christ said “Go into the entire world teaching and
baptizing”. Matt.28:18-20, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in
the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” The line around the ball
represents divisions that suggest continents which are united into one by the circular
extension of the cross. A world united in Christ who has dominion over all. Christ is triumph
over earthly sin. The crown declares the kingship of our Lord. Addie Curry, Jody Bain and
Dortha Young made the top three in 1967.
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CELTIC CROSS OR IRISH CROSS
The original design of this cross, so popular today, is lost in antiquity. This design was found in
Ireland on the Isle of Iona, this cross is called the Irish Cross or the Cross of Iona. While the
Celtics probably originated this design, there is no certainty about the meaning which they
may have intended for the circle, a distinguishing feature of this cross, but typically a circle is a
symbol for eternity. Elaborate carvings adorn many ancient Celtic Crosses. Basket weaves,
medallions, serpents, and vines are frequently used for embellishments. Two of the Celtic
Crosses were made by Mildred Chenault in 1971.
TAU CROSS
A cross with the arm of the cross at the top of the upright, the Old Testament Cross or cross of
prophecy, is thought to be the type of cross on which Moses mounted the brazen serpent in
the wilderness. Numbers 21:6-9; Isaiah 53 John 3:14. A serpent on a Tau Cross (Old
Testament or Anticipatory Cross) is a “type” of Our Lord’s crucifixion, an Old Testament
occurrence that parallels an event in Christ Jesus’ life, “As Moses lifted up the serpent in the
wilderness, so must the Son of man be lifted up.” One thing to remember in this comparison is
that the raising of the fiery serpent alone did not save the people. The people lived only when
they looked at the bronze serpent on the pole. Both of these serpent on the tau cross were
made by Alice Terry 1967.
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LATIN CROSS
The Latin Cross is the most widely used form of the cross among Christians. The Latin Cross
has the upright longer than the transom (horizontal). Most authorities agree that this was the
actual form of cross on which our Savior died. It was then the customary type used whenever
a title was affixed to identify the person crucified. If the cross on your altar has a figure of the
Lord on it, it is properly called a crucifix. The empty cross typifies the finished work of
atonement. The cross with the Alpha (Α), the first Greek letter and last letter Omega (Ω) are
often used in Christian art to suggest, as they do the Bible, the divinity of our Lord, (Isaiah
44:6, Revelation 1:8, 22:13). Two of the Latin Cross’ with gold beads and the alpha and omega
were made in 1967 by Dortha Young and Addie Curry made the other one.
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ANCHOR CROSS/CROSS OF HOPE
The anchor cross is often called the Anchor of the Soul. Long ago when persecution drove
Christian believers into the catacombs of new Rome, the anchor-cross emerged as a stabilizing
symbol of their Christian hope. The symbol is based on Hebrews 6:19 “This child is sent to be
the hope of the world”, also Luke 2:7. The symbol looks like a cross that rises from a crescent
moon. The cross is the symbol for our Lord and the crescent moon symbolizes for the Lord’s
mother. The cross rises out of the crescent moon, thus the symbol ties the birth and death of
Jesus into our hope for eternal salvation. Addie Curry added this to the collection in 1972.
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JERUSALEM CROSS
The Jerusalem Cross is four tau crosses which meet in the center to form a larger cross. Some
interpret the five crosses to relate to the five wounds of Christ. The Old Testament prophecies
(the Tau Crosses) culminated in the crucifixion of our Lord (the large cross) on a hill outside of
Jerusalem and since then, His followers have carried the gospel to the four corners of the
earth. Addie Curry made the large sequin cross with the four white bead crosses in 1967. The
Jerusalem Cross with the different styles of crosses was made by Nellie Gomsi in 1996. The
Jerusalem Cross that’s all white pearl beads was made by Ardith Lange in 1967.
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GREEK CROSS
The Greek cross has arms of equal length simplifying its combination with other figures. This
balanced form is easier to use in designs and was much employed by early Greek artists. At
one time use of the Greek cross showed loyalty to the Eastern Orthodox Church as opposed to
the western use of the Latin Cross. Whenever five small Greek crosses are inscribed on the
Mensa (altar top) or appear on the altar cloths, they represent the five wounds of Christ. The
crown is the symbol of the Kingship of our Lord Christ Jesus; His Victory over sin and death; His
place of honor at the right hand of God. ( I Timothy 6:15; Revelation 14:14; Romans 8:34)
Grace Hood, Gladys Briggs and Marge Mathchinski made these in 1967.
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CROSS IN ETERNITY CIRCLE
At one time in history, God through his Son made himself known to mankind and provided for
our eternal salvation. By the inspiration of the Spirit, each person can walk with God eternal
by believing and accepting the one sacrifice for all time. The Chrismons below were made by
Lucy Peddicord and Addie Curry in 1967.
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THE CROSS OF CONSTANTINE
The CHI RHO (XP) with the X turned to form a cross is the cross of constantine. This is the
symbol, legend says, and that Constantine saw in the sky along with the cross and the words,
“in this sign conquer”. So, continues the story, the Roman Emperor and his soldiers fought the
definitive battle for Rome in 213 A.D. under this sign of the Christ. It is a fact that Constantine
later placed the CHI RHO on his labarum, the Roman standard carried before his troops, to
signify his was an empire under the Christ, a Christian people. He defended the church against
further persecutions, became a Christian himself, and abolished the cross as a form of
execution because his Lord died on it. Use of this monogram implied triumph. As early as the
4th century the Alpha and Omega were added to the emblem to symbolize the Divinity of the
Christ. Christ the conquering King. (I Timothy 6:15) and this will be made manifest at the
proper time by the blessed and only Sovereign, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. These
were made by Addie Curry in 1967.
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CHI RHO WITH ALPHA AN OMEGA
The most widely known Chrismon other than the cross is the combination of the first two
letters of the Greek work “Christo (XPISTOS)”, in English “Christ”. The CHI RHO (PX) is the
oldest monogram for Christ and was commonly used by the early church. Back in that day, the
shame and death of the cross was too immediate for them to use it openly. Today many say
let’s take the “X” out of Christmas (Xmas) but the “X” meant Christ for over 1,000 years before
the English language was developed. The cross with the Alpha (Α), the first Greek letter and
last letter Omega (Ω) are often used in Christian art to suggest, as they do in the Bible, the
divinity of our Lord, (Isaiah 44:6, Revelation 1:8, 22:13). Two of these Chrismon below were
made by Dortha Young and the other one by Addie Curry in 1967.
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THE LATIN CROSS WITH XP, TRIANGLE, ROSES AND M
While we don’t really know the shape of the cross on which our Savior died, the church uses
this form, the Latin Cross, most widely. Early Christians often combined the Alpha (beginning)
and Omega (the ending) with the cross to declare the Eternal being of our Lord. When you
look at this Chrismon you can see the XP in the form of the cross used. The triangle symbolizes
the Holy Trinity and points to our Lord’s Divine nature, while the M, the monogram of His
Mother Mary, symbolizes His human birth. The rose decoration of the M further emphasizes
the fact of Christ’s birth as one of us. Use of the shells to cover the triangle evokes another
idea, that of our own birth. Shells traditionally symbolize Holy Baptism. Thus, they remind us
of our second birth, our spiritual rebirth in Christ at Baptism when, by faith, we become sons
of God. ( Galatians 3:23) Zellene Specht made the gold one and Natalie McWilliams made the
white one in 1967.
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LATIN CROSS WITH CROWN
The cross going through the crown symbolizes victory over death through faith in Christ Jesus.
The Chrismon was given to the church by Helen Markley; she received it at a Lutheran Church
Women Convention.
CROSS AND CHI
The Greek CHI (X), the first letter of Christ, combines with the cross to show that Christ and the
cross can never be separated, for He came to earth to bear the sins of the world upon that
cross. Only when we understand both the Christ and the cross can we begin to see and
understand the full measure of God’s love. Mary Webb made the first one in 1996. Number
two and three were made by Jean River and Dortha Young in 1967.
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IOTA ETA SIGMA (IHS) IN A CIRCLE
The first three letters in of JESus in the Greek name IHSOUS (or JESOUS) placed in the circle
which is the symbol for eternity. Addie Curry and Blanch Maul made these.
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IOTA CHI (IX)
The Iota (I) is the first letter of our Lord’s given name, Jesus, in Greek. This name means “the
promised one.” The Chi (X) is the first letter of His Greek title, Christ. The Greek word for
Christ, Christos (XPISTOS), is the translation of the Hebrew “Messiah”, which means “the one
anointed by God.” When these two letters are superimposed, they become our Savior’s
cipher, the symbolic interweaving of initials that some people call a star. (The IOTA is made of
daisies to point to the innocence of the Child in the manger while the lilies of the valley that
form the CHI symbolize Christ’s humility.) The butterfly is an early symbol of the resurrection.
The rose symbolizes the nativity of Jesus and Our Lord’s mother. (Hebrew crocus= rose).
Isaiah 35:1, “The wilderness and the dry land shall be glad and the desert shall rejoice and
blossom like the crocus it shall blossom abundantly.” The Chrismon is easy for children to
understand. Jean River made the IOTA with roses and lilies of the valley. Mildred Chenault
made the small gold bead one. Jean River made the two with daises, lilies of the valley, rose
and butterfly in 1967. Addie Curry made the other three in 1967.
IOTA CHI
IOTA CHI WITH DAISES AND LILIES OF THE VALLEY
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IOTA CHI WITH BUTTERFLY AND ROSE
PARABLE or KINGDOM BALLS
Our Lord Christ Jesus spent three years of His life on earth teaching, preaching and ministering
to the people of His time. The events of that life and the recording of His words is the Gospel
reported by the four Evangelists- Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. When someone desires to
know who and what the Christ is, when another wants to find out about God, or if another
wants to discover the Kingdom (of God, of Heaven), each can do no better than read and study
our Savior’s own declarations concerning these matters.
The Parable balls depict our Lord’s teaching about Himself, the Father, and the Kingdom. The
parable can be seen in the center of the ball by a “figure” that He used. The parable balls tell
the stories of the teaching of Jesus, like letting the “little children come to him” or we need to
“become like children”, Matthew 18:1-5, Mark 10:13-16, John 3:3-15. The first parable ball
shows children in the center. The next ball has a mustard seed in the center, Mark 4:30-32.
The last ball has the pearl in the center telling the parable of the pearl of great price. Matthew
13:45-46. These parable balls were made by Addie Curry and Jean River in 1980.
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SUN OF RIGHTEOUSNESS
“But for you who fear my name, the Sun of Righteousness shall arise with healing in his wings.”
Malachi 4:20
Both of these were made by Dortha Young in 1967.
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BUTTERFLY
Our Lord’s Resurrection: also the resurrection of those who die in Christ. Its life cycle is an
excellent symbol for the Christian life on earth. What symbol could represent the Christian
better than the butterfly! The three cycles are larva as our life on the earth, the pupa in the
cocoon depicting death, and the butterfly rising to fly free the coming of Christ. Lowly as a
larva is mortal man here on earth. Like pupa resting in its cocoon is the body of man lying
apparently lifeless in the grave. Finally the butterfly emerges with a beautiful new body and
rises heavenward. Grace Hood made the gold sequin butterfly in 1967. Peggy Hageman and
Addie Curry made the pearl butterfly with the Alpha and Omega on the wings.
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LAMB
The lamb symbolizes the sacrificial life of Christ. "Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the
sins of the world!" John 1:29. In 1980, Addie Curry helped the Sunday school teachers and
students to make Chrismons for their own Christmas trees at home and for the church. These
lambs were made by Addie Curry
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SHEPHERD’S CROOK or STAFF WITH ALPHA AND OMEGA
A number of symbols for our Lord are in this simple design. The crook of the shepherd (The
Good Shepherd) is hung with the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet, the Alpha (A) and
Omega (Ω), symbolizing Jesus the Christ as “The Beginning and the Ending.” The XP and the
Cross are also apparent. This basic design was found in the oldest manuscript of Luke, Papyrus
75. Photos one and two below have a Latin Cross with Alpha and Omega in the group of
Shepherd’s Crook. Some of these were made by Dortha Young and Addie Curry.
.
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CHRISTMAS ROSE IN CIRCLE
A symbol of the nativity, birth of the Messiah, is a circle; and symbolizes eternity, eternal life
with God and God the eternal one. This Chrismon was made by Addie Curry in 1970.
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STAR
Stars are formed by crosses set at various angles. The star suggests the close relationship
between the birth and death of our Lord. The five point star is a symbol of Epiphany; a six
point star is a symbol of the Creator; a seven point star is the Gifts of the Spirit and eight
points, the Regeneration through Holy Baptism. (1 Peter 3:20-21)
Epiphany is from a Greek word meaning the appearance or revelation of a god. The Epiphany
star has five points, and refers specifically to the revelation or showing of Jesus as the Son of
God. The Five point star was a manifestation to the Wise men. (Matthew 2:2) Jacob saw a
star out in the sky. (Numbers 24:17) A rose placed with the five point star combines the
meaning. The rose can symbolize our Lord, his mother Mary, or his nativity. Because it refers
to his birth, when he took on our flesh, it specially depicts this human nature. On the other
hand the star points to his divinity. The Epiphany Star specifically refers to Jesus with its five
pointed symbol of the Star of David. The five point star and rose shows in the design is a
portrayal of the two natures of the Christ: He is true God and He is true man. Addie Curry and
Mildred Chenault made the five point star with the rose. Addie Curry made the five points in
1967 to go with the Nativity and lambs. The needlepoint eight point stars made in 1980.
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EIGHT-POINT STAR
In Christian symbolism, the eight-point star refers to regeneration through Holy Baptism. The
pre-Christian figure was drawn without lifting the tool from the surface and was adopted by
Christians as a “concealed” Chrismon during the Roman persecutions. The crossing lines reveal
Chi’sRho’s and crosses to the initiate. When this design is used, one remembers that it was not
always easy to be a Christian, not even in name alone. I Peter 3:20.
Two sizes large and small, all gold beads, all white beads stars and two were made by Hazel
Mount in 1967.
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PALM
This symbol reminds us of the Palm Sunday when Jesus rode into Jerusalem in the triumphal
procession. “Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord, even the King of
Israel!”John 12:13 this palm represents those which the people waved when Christ Jesus made
His triumphal entry into Jerusalem. Surrounding the palm is the Hosanna’s of the people. Two
other elements of this design point to another triumph of our Lord- the triumph when He will
come again in all His glory. The clear peaks on which the Hosanna’s rest suggest His glory,
while the crown at the base of the palm symbolizes His kingship. Revelation 1: 4-8 Mildred
Chenault made one in 1972 and another in 1973.
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THE NATIVITY SCENE
The scene of nativity is an easily understood depiction of the Christmas season. The nativity
scene (below, left) was made by Hazel Mount.
DOVE
The dove of spiritual blessing, one of the oldest and best of symbols, represents the Holy
Spirit. The Spirit is depicted as a descending dove, the form in which He was described at our
Lord’s baptism. With the baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist in the Jordan River, we read of
the spirit descending in the form of a dove and lighting on the shoulder of Jesus. The
descending dove is a figure which, since earliest Christian times, has denoted the presence of
God’s living spirit among his people. This is a symbol of the Lutheran Church Women and was
originally designed for LCW by Sacred Associates Inc. The descending dove above was made
by Grace Hood in 1967. The Descending Dove in circle of eternity below made by Addis Curry
in 1967.
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CHALICE AND WAFER
The cup and wafer symbolic of the wine and wafer in holy sacrament of Communion. This one
(below, left) was made by Addie Curry in 1970.
GRAPES AND WHEAT IN A CIRCLE
These symbolize the bread and wine in communion, again a reminder of the sacrament of Holy
Communion. The one above right was made by Addie Curry in 1972.
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CORNER STONE
Christ himself being the chief cornerstone. In Ephesians 2:20, “built upon the foundation of
the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone.” In Mark 12:10 “have
you not read this scripture: ‘The very stone which the builders rejected has become the head
of the corner.” Nellie Overly made both of these in 1972.
CHI and CROSS WOVEN THROUGH TWO CIRCLES
This ancient design suggests the Christ who died on the cross at a specific time in history. The
inner circle represents the finite. Yet this same Christ provided, by means of that death, the
eternal answer, the outer circle, the infinite that goes beyond life into eternity. These were
made by Jean River.
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THREE ENTWINED CIRCLES
The three entwined circles are very early symbol for the Holy Trinity, one god in three persons,
the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. The three circles linked together as one God and the three
interlocking rings showing the one Holy Trinity. Addie Curry made the one with a white circle
of beads and the two gold bead circles entwined (right). Hazel Mount made the one with
white pearl beads in the middle.
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TRIANGLE and TREFOIL
Two geometric figures, a trefoil and an equilateral triangle combine to define the Godhead.
The triangle, one of the oldest and most common symbols for the Trinity, has three distinct
parts united to make a perfect whole. The trefoil also of three equal parts is a modification of
three interlaced Circles which suggest the eternal nature of the three Persons. One made by
Addie Curry in 1967.
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TRIQUETA AND CIRCLE
The endless circle suggests eternity, God- the only eternal One, or eternal life with God.
The triquetra a complete figure which is composed of three separate and equal arcs,
symbolizes the one God who showed Himself to man in three separate and distinct
persons. These ideas may be combined to proclaim a variety of truths: the Trinity in
Eternity, the circle for eternal nature of God, the triangles representing the Triune god,
Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Two of these were made by Jean River in 1967 and two
were made by Ruth Black in 1996.
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SHELL ON A EIGHT POINT STAR
The shell symbolizes the sacrament of the Holy Baptism. The star symbolizes the close
relationship between the birth and death of our Savior. The large and two small shells
on eight point stars were made by Emily Nugent in 2001.
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IN MEMORY OF ADDIE CURRY
A Few of the Ladies!
Hazel Mount
Blanche Maul
Grace Hood
Addie Curry’s sister
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Jean River
A FEW OF THE PAST TREES
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SYMBOLS FOR OUR GOD AND LORD
An equilateral triangle, three equal part figure, or any three like items- the Triune God.
A circle symbolizes eternity: God, the only eternal One, or eternal life with God.
A crown symbolizes sovereignty, meaning Kingship and a sign of royalty; and shows
that Christ is the ruler over all creation.
Cornerstone represents Jesus Christ, the chief corner stone.
Sun of Righteousness, Our Lord as prophesied in Malachi 4:2.
Fish IX0YC (ICHTHUS). The Greek word for fish forms an acrostic on the first letters of
Jesus Christ, God’s Son, savior. One of the most recognized ancient symbols for our
Lord.
Butterfly, our Lord’s resurrection: also the resurrection of those who die in Christ.
Wheat and Grapes used to symbolize the sacrament of Holy Communion, the bread
and wine.
Chalice "Then he took the cup, give thanks and offered it to them, saying, "Drink from
it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured for many for the
forgiveness of sins." Matthew 26:27-28 NKJV
Thorns are a representation of our Lord’s crown of suffering shaped in a circle like a
crown. “When they had twisted a crown of thorns, they put it on His head and a reed in
His right hand.” Matthew 27:28 NKJV
Lamb symbolizes the sacrificial life of Christ. "Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away
the sins of the world!" John 1:29. NKJV
A daisy represents the innocence of the Christ Child.
Rose represents the Nativity of our Lord, also our Lord’s mother.
Lily-of-the-valley represents the humility of the man Jesus.
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Descending Dove "And the Holy Spirit descended on him in bodily form like a dove."
Luke 3:22 NKJV
Shell symbolizes the sacrament of Holy Baptism.
THE CROSS
The cross is a reminder of our Lord’s saving work of redeeming mankind through His
sacrifice for our sins, thereby bringing forgiveness and salvation. Different forms of the
cross may point to various aspects of our Christ’s life and work.
Latin Cross, this cross is probably the actual form of the cross upon which our Lord
was crucified.
Tau Cross with a Brazen Serpent — A symbol described in John 3:14: "Just as Moses
lifted up the snake in the desert, so the Son of Man must be lifted up."
Jerusalem Cross (Crusaders Cross) — An emblem of missionary work., "the large
center cross represents the original church in Jerusalem, and the smaller crosses
represent the four corners of the earth to which Christianity has spread.
The Greek Cross is an ancient cross having arms of equal length. The arms end in a
trefoil suggesting the Holy Trinity.
Anchor Cross is also known as the Cross of Hope. A crescent moon a symbol for our
Lord’s mother and the cross rising from the crescent moon is Christ as Child, the hope
of the world.
Cross of Constantine is the CHI RHO with the X turned to form a cross; Christ the
conquering King. The cross is named after a Roman emperor Constantine the Great
following his conversion to Christianity in the fourth century.
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MONOGRAMS, LETTERS AND WORDS
Alpha and Omega —First and last letters of the Greek alphabet, referred to in "I am the
Alpha and the Omega," says the Lord God, "who is, and who was, and who is to come,
the Almighty." Revelation 1:8 NKJV
X CHI the first letter of the word for Christ in Greek.
XP CHI RHO, The first letters of CHRist in the Greek alphabet. Or, for the Latin
Christus Rex,- Christ the King. The X may sometimes become a cross.
CHI-RHO—A monogram formed by combining the Greek letters X (chi) d P (rho), the
first two letters of the Greek word for Christ.
I.H.C.-I.H.S.—The initial letters of Jesus Hominum Satvator—"Jesus Savior of Man."
M is the first letter of the name of our Lord’s mother, Mary.
INRI are the first letters of the words in the Latin superscription, “Jesus of Nazareth,
King of the Jews.
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