Each year, First Presbyterian Church becomes a wonderland of Christmas decorations. A prominent feature in the sanctuary is the Chrismon tree.
For those not familiar with a Chrismon tree, it is a Christmas tree decorated entirely with ornaments of special significance to followers of Jesus.
The word “chrismon” is a combination of the words “Christ” and “monogram.” These are symbols of the life of Christ.
It is generally accepted that the first Chrismon tree was in 1957 at Ascension Lutheran Church in Danville, Virginia. Frances Kipps Spencer created the first ornaments. It was created as an offering to God, a symbol of praise and thanksgiving. The tradition has spread to many Christian denominations.
Traditionally, these ornaments are white and gold. In the church, white is often used to represent Christmas, symbolizing the purity and perfect of Christ. Gold symbolized his majesty and glory.
Chrismons may be made from any material, but paper and cloth are the most common. The most important element of each ornament is the telling of a portion of the story of Jesus.
Common chrismons include:
- The Cross – This represents Christians’ faith in a savior who died for everyone.
- The Latin or Roman Cross – This has three steps at the base which represent faith, hope, and love.
- The Irish or Celtic Cross – This has a circle in the middle to represent eternity.
- The Star of David – This is a symbol that Jesus was a Jew and a descendant of King David.
- The Nativity Star – This is the symbol of Epiphany, when the Wise Men visited Jesus.
- The Dove – This is a symbol of peace and of the Holy Spirit.
The crimsons on the tree are often used to tell the story of Jesus to children.
Be sure to stop into the sanctuary this December and take a few moments to take in the significance of the Chrismon tree.