What are Chrismons?

Chrismons are Monograms of Jesus Christ. They are Non-denominational Christmas tree decorations that teach the word of God through a creative activity.

In 1940, Reverend George Pass, an elderly minister who visited her home during the Christmas season, influenced Frances Kipps Spencer. Reverend Pass was from a poor church and, in order to acquire the materials to make decorations, asked Mrs. Spencer for her discarded wrappings. His creations from these meager materials were then shared with his congregation.

Reverend Pass' great devotion moved Mrs. Spencer and her husband, Harry, to continue the tradition and make their own ornaments for decoration of their tree.

In 1957, Mrs. Spencer volunteered to be in charge of the decorations for her church, The Ascension Lutheran Church of Danville, Va. She decided instead of traditional balls and colored lights, that handmade ornaments would be more appropriate.

Mrs. Spencer began to study the monograms of Christ and, after discovering the Latin word chrisma, the name Chrismon was born. Four instructional books were written by Mrs. Spencer with the help of her congregation so that this "ministry" might be shared throughout the United States and the world.