Christian Christmas tree
Scripture reading: Luke 1:26-31, Luke 2:1-20
Activities
* Starting December 1, create an ornament each day to place on a Christmas tree. Make the following symbols from plastic foam, felt, construction paper or other available materials. Decorate your ornaments with glitter, sequins, ribbon or other items.
* As you place the decoration/symbol on the tree, talk about its meaning.
* Do something special for someone each day.
1
Grapes
symbol of the sacrament of Holy Communion
2
Stone tablets
symbol for the Ten Commandments
3
Triquetra
early symbol of the Holy Trinity
4
Rainbow
symbol of God’s love and protection
5
Wheat
symbol of Jesus as the Bread of Life (John 6:35)
6
Ship
symbol of the church in which Christians sail the rough seas of life
7
Lamb with banner
symbol of Jesus’ victory over sin
8
Scroll
symbol of the five books of Moses (first five books of the Old Testament)
9
Church
symbol of our family relationship with God
10
Ark
symbol of the church — all living creatures found refuge in the ark
11
Dogwood
symbol of Jesus’ crucifixion
12
Iris
symbol of the mother of Jesus and often a symbol of the Trinity
13
Musical note
symbol for praise and worship
14
Dove with olive sprig
symbol of peace, forgiveness and new life
15
Empty cross
symbol of Jesus’ death and resurrection
16
Ladder
symbol of the connection of heaven and earth with God
17
Twelve-pointed star
symbol of the 12 tribes of Israel and the 12 apostles
18
Candle
symbol of Jesus as the Light of the World (John 8:12)
19
Anchor
symbol of hope
20
Gift
symbol of generosity
21
Angel
symbol of God’s messengers
22
Camel
symbol of the search for Jesus
23
Advent candles
symbol of light, hope, joy and peace and wreath symbol of God’s unchanging love
24
Manger
symbol of Jesus’ birth
COPYRIGHT 2000 Presbyterian Record
COPYRIGHT 2008 Gale, Cengage Learning
