2.5 Christian symbols

• name 3 Christian symbols

  • Ichthus ( fish )
  • Alpha and Omega
  • Chi-Rho
• what do Christians use the word Ichthus as and what does that make up?


  • as an acronym
  • Greek words that say ' Jesus Christ, Son of God, Saviour '
• how was the Ichthus symbol used?


  as a declaration of faith to show they believe Jesus was the Son of God and saviour
• how was the Ichthus symbol used regarding persecution of faith?


  • quickly draw and erase the symbol to show they were Christians
  • indicate where Christian meetings were being held
• What is the Alpha and Omega symbols and what does it indicate?


  • Alpha ( A ) is the first letter of the Greek alphabet while Omega ( Ω ) is the last letter of the Greek alphabet
  • God and Jesus are involved in everything from beginning to end
• where might you see the Alpha and Omega symbols ?


  on the Paschal candle ( candle lit at Eater Vigil to represent the risen Christ )
• What is the Chi-Rho symbol?

  monogram of first two letters of Greek word for Christ
• What is the purpose of the Chi-Rho symbol?


  • reminder of the death of Jesus
  • Jesus was sent by God to save humanity through his death
• what can the Chi-Rho be an alternative for ?


  wearing a Chi-Rho as an alternative to the cross of crucifix as an expression of faith