At our Christmas Eve service, Jamie explained the Ichthus symbol and why this is a great summary of the meaning of Christmas.
In Hellenistic Greek, the word Ichthus (aka Ichthys or Ikhthus) means fish. It is composed of two intersecting arcs. One end of both arcs extends beyond the meeting point, creating the profile of a fish. The fish is a very significant symbol for Christians. Literally, the word Ikhthus means Jesus (I) Christ (KH), God’s (TH) son (U), Savior (S). In the early Church, the ichthys symbol held “the most sacred significance”, and Christians used it to recognize churches and other believers through this symbol because they were persecuted by the Roman Empire. More informally, it is known as the “sign of the fish”. Jesus Christ and His apostles were known as “fishers of men”
As is Anglican tradition, on each of the four Sundays preceding Christmas, an Advent candle is lit. The 4 candles are hope, love, joy, and peace, representing the virtues Jesus brought us. On Christmas Eve our littlest church member Arthur, with a little help from his parents, Jessica and Darcy, lit the fourth candle which preceded the lighting of the Christ candle at our Christmas Day Service.
And so, during this Advent season, we bless you with the joy in knowing Jesus as your King and with reassurance that His love is deeper than all shame and brokenness and may you be blessed over the 12 days of Christmas and also the year ahead.