A Chrismon tree is not the same as a Christmas tree.
But they’re related, of course.
They’re usually found in Christian churches where the specific ornaments tell the story of Jesus.
How?
By using monograms, or the “ancient symbols for Christ or some part of Christ’s ministry.”
(See J. Dudley West’s book: Presbyterian Worship: A Guide for Clergy. )
How do ornaments tell the story of Jesus and why?
Christmas trees have been set up in Europe since the seventh century, particularly in Germany. Some credit Martin Luther with introducing lit candles as decorations in the early 16th century.
Queen Victoria is credited with popularizing Christmas trees during her reign.
Decorations generally feature tinsel, fruit, garlands, candy canes, and ornaments.
In 1957, Frances Spencer volunteered to decorate the Christmas tree at Ascension Lutheran Church.
She proposed using symbols relating to Jesus’ life. “The tree was not finished until someone came to see it and had the story of Christ explained to them through the Chrismons.“
A Chrismon tree is not colorful. It’s decorated in gold and white, the “liturgical colors of the Christmas season.”
(Ascension Lutheran has an Etsy page where they sell information and pertinent ornaments.)
The idea is to examine the Chrismons and follow Jesus’ story.
After all, Advent is about Jesus.
What specific Chrismons are found on a Chrismon tree?
Ornaments representing themes from Jesus’ life. (All Bible verses are from the New King James Version)
The Alpha and Omega Jesus is both the beginning and the end.
An angel (or two or three). They’re popular in the Christmas story!
Beaded fish. IXOYE, Ichthys. The symbol that first-century Christians used to identify themselves to each other.
Crown of Thorns. Remembering what the Roman soldiers used to mock Jesus
Crown of Kingship. Jesus is the Sovereign King of the Universe.
Star of David. The Epiphany star announcing Jesus’ birth. (Numbers 24:17)
More obscure Jesus-related Chrismon tree ornaments
Bells. Traditionally associated with Christmas, and Christmas carols like “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day.”
Butterfly. A symbol of Christ’s resurrection. As it changes from worm to chrysalis to butterfly, it symbolizes Jesus’s life, death, and resurrection.
Chi Rho. The Greek symbol for Christ. “I am the light of the world,” (John 8:12)
Jacob’s well. Jesus offered himself as living water to the woman at the well in Sychar. She became an evangelist. (John 4:5-7)
Lily of the Valley. A traditional expression of Jesus’ resurrection because the flower blooms in spring. (Luke 12:26-28)
Tau Cross. The oldest form of a cross. This Chrismon refers to Moses lifting a serpent on a cross to save the Israelites in the desert. (Numbers 21:6-9)
Trefoil cross with dove. A reference to Jesus’ baptism (Matthew 3:16).
Triangle. Commonly linked to the Trinity: God the Father, God the Son, God the Holy Spirit.
Lights?
Of course, but only twinkling white or gold.
While my family hangs Chrismons on our tree, we include family ornaments from three generations.
Decorating the Christmas tree is a reminder of the people we love. It’s also a remembrance of Christmases past, travels, and particularly, my mom.
We tell the Jesus story through books and manger scenes.
Liturgical churches often have trees dedicated to telling Jesus’ story.
Our Lutheran churches always did.
Merry Christmas!
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