CHRISTIAN MONOGRAMS
 
 
Introduction
 
Since the early days of Christianity, the Church has used monograms as symbols of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.  Christian monograms are particular groups of letters (derived from Greek and Latin words) which are artistically stylized to serve as visual expressions of our faith.  And, although the sanctuary of First Presbyterian Church is somewhat austere regarding Christian monograms, there are a couple of notable symbols within our place of worship which encourage a sense of reverence for Christ.
 
 
IHS
 
One such symbol in our sanctuary is the stylized group of letters—IHS.  Some Christians have mistakenly assumed that this monogram stands for “In His Service” or “In His Steps.”  Actually, this monogram is initially based on the Greek word for “Jesus” (IHCOYC).  When abbreviated, this Greek word is represented by “IHC.”  And, when Latinized, this abbreviation becomes “IHS.”  This symbol is delicately embroidered on the seatback of one of the chairs in our chancel.
 

 
 
Alpha-Omega
 
The only other Christian monogram in our sanctuary is the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet: Alpha and Omega.  These two letters are delicately embroidered on the seatbacks of two of the chairs in our chancel—Alpha on one, and Omega on the other.  The Alpha-Omega monogram is also subtly, yet creatively, designed into our sanctuary’s rafters, which can be clearly seen when one looks at the ceiling beams along the long-axis of the sanctuary.  In the New Testament’s Book of Revelation, Christ employs these two Greek letters as a self-description. 
 
“I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end.”  (Revelation 22:13)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 


RETURN TO A PLACE OF REVERENCE