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The Greek letters X (Ch) + P (R) on the ring are the first two letters of the Greek word ΧΡΙΣΤΟΣ pronounced ‘Christos’ (Christ), and as such have become known as the Monogram of Christ. |
The Chi-Rho with the α (alpha) and the ω (omega) to either side of the Monogram of Christ, make this unassuming piece of ancient Christian jewelry one of the earliest non-denominational rings yet found.
Because of the Chi-Rho and Alpha-Omega on the father's Christian ring, we know that he and his family were Followers of the Way. And while the wearing of Christian jewelry is commonplace today, few people can imagine what it meant for these young people to openly wear a sign of their Faith in the fourth century, as their own grandparents would have surely been persecuted for doing so only a few decades earlier.
To read the full, tragic story of the Kourion Earthquake and the last, terrifying seconds of this family's life, please click here
As one of the earliest examples of ancient Christian jewelry ever found, the father's Chi-Rho ring without doubt holds a special place in our Faith's history, and yet its story carries a timeless message which is no less significant to contemporary life, than it was over sixteen hundred years ago.
Click here for Andrew's story
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[Song of Songs 8:6]
Front of Kourion Museum
[John 15:12]
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