symbolism and imagery

The cross

* This symbol expresses belief in ^^Gods love and forgiveness.^^ Catholics make the sign of the cross before praying. It also appears alot in art
* Nicine Creed : ^^“ He was cricified under Pontius Pilot “^^

The crucifix

* This symbol reminds Catholics of the ^^Passion of Christ and expresses the belief that Jesus death brought salvation.^^ Crucifixes are found in all churches above the altar , in Catholic homes and schools.

The Ichthus ( fish)

* The Greek letters within the Ichthus ^^express belief in the incarnation ;^^ they are the first letters of “ Jesus Christ , Son of God , Saviour”
* Marks Gospel ^^: “ follow me … and I wil send you out to fish for people”^^

The Alpha and Omega

* ^^First and last letters of the Greek alphabet^^. This expresses the ^^belief that God is eternal^^ ; he always existed and will exist.
* Revelation : “ ^^I am the first and the last. I am the living one”^^

The Chi Ro

* The monogram consits of the ^^first two letters of Christ in Greek.^^ It expresses the belief that ^^Jesus is the messiah , incarnation of Son of God.^^
* Nicine Creed : ^^“ We believe in one Lord , Jesus Christ, the only son of God “^^

The Dove

* This expresses the belief in the ^^Holy Spirit^^ as a part of the trinity. This is found in Christian art and in the Bible.
* Marks Gospel : ^^“ Jesus came up from the water … the Spirit descended on him like a dove”^^

The symbols of the Evangalists

* These symbols are often foud in Christian art. They all have wings to reflect that the evangalists spread the gospel.
* ^^Mark : Winged lion - emphasises Jesus courage and strength.^^
* ^^Matthew : Winged man - emphasises the incarnation^^
* ^^Luke : Winged ox - emphasises Jesus sacrifce^^
* ^^John : Eagle - emphasises the heavenly and divine nature of God.^^

Divergent ways symbols and imagery are used

* ^^Once used as secret symbols so Christians could identify one another without Romans knowing.^^
* Used to ^^communicate deeper truths of and visuallyy express important beliefs.^^
* Used in Churches as part of the ^^decoration on cloths and vestments.^^
* Some Protestants disagree with the Catholic churches use of ^^symbols as the meaning may be misunderstood if it hasnt been taught clearly.^^

SOWAS for symbolism and imagery

* ^^Isiah 45 says that those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength and mount up with wings like eagles.^^

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