Observing Advent – part 2

Chrismon Tree
The Chrismon Tree has a fairly short history.  It was first developed for the Ascension Lutheran Church in Danville, Virginia in 1957.  The tree has all-white lights, which symbolize Christ’s purity and majesty.

In place of ornaments, this tree has chrismons.  That word is a shortening of “Christ’s monograms.”  The symbols are white with either silver or gold highlights.  The monograms proper are the traditional chi rho or IHS along with some others.  The tree also is appointed with representations of Jesus’ life and ministry, the church, God, the Holy Spirit and the Holy Trinity.  Atop the tree is a crown that signifies Christ’s lordship.

The Chrismon Tree has appreciated in popularity in the last several years, owing in part to its being similar to traditional seasonal trees (so that it appeals to the non-liturgical among us) and at the same time being essentially an Advent object (that appeases the “no carols before Christmas" crowd).

Hanging of the Greens
Many churches devote a regular or extra worship service early in Advent to a time of Hanging of the Greens.  The physical appointments in the church sanctuary may be physically positioned, or they may already be in place and during the course of the service they may be referenced or interpreted.  Wreathes, garland, candles, Chrismon tree, Advent wreath, poinsettias and other items – particularly greenery – offer devotional focus in the course of the service.  

Such a worship time allows the church to remind its members and especially newcomers that the church does not “decorate” its sanctuary.  Nothing is in place because it is pretty.  We appoint our worship space, presenting things that aid in worship.