Chrismons, meaning "Christ monograms," traditionally are white and gold designs made from Christian symbols that signify Christ. Often displayed on an evergreen tree during the Christmas season, symbols such as stars, crosses, fish, crowns, and the alpha and omega remind us of Christ's identity, his story, and of the Holy Trinity.
The white color in Chrismons is the liturgical color of Christmas and Easter that signifies joy and holiness. The gold represents the glory, majesty and kingship of Jesus.
Chrismons were first developed in 1957 by Frances Spencer and the women of the Ascension Lutheran Church in Danville, VA. "Mrs. Spencer stated a tree was never finished until someone came to see it and have the story of Christ explained to them through the ornaments," the ALC states on its website.
Many churches today display a Chrismon tree during the Advent and Christmas season decorated with handmade ornaments. In the spring of 2023, Methodist Women's Fellowship took on the challenge of creating over 120 Chrismon ornaments to adorn the largest tree placed in the Sanctuary. These women selected stages of the making of the Chrismons based on their talents and preferences. Some cut out felt, some beaded, and some finished off the ornaments. It was a labor of love brought forth by many.
Below is a description of the meanings for each ornament.
