Symbols for Lent and Easter Lent and Easter Symbols by Linda Fry, Associate Librarian Over the centuries Christians have come to use many symbols to help them remember and teach the story of Jesus. The early Christians used the simple drawing of a fish to identify themselves to each other during times of persecution. Symbols were used to mark special places and later Christians used symbols to adorn their church buildings, both to create an inspiring space and to teach the story of Jesus to all who entered there. Before the printing press, broader access to education which brought greater literacy, and changes in church policy making Bibles available to anyone, the art and symbols on the cathedral walls were the lay person s Bible. The Easter story is central to the story of Jesus.
Many symbols represent the events of Holy Week and the resurrection.
Palm branches, the bread and cup, feet washing, a rooster, the crown of thorns, and the open tomb are only a few of the familiar images that have come out of the biblical accounts of these events. As Christianity has spread, many other symbols have been adapted from the traditions and folklore of the people who the Christian story has touched. These symbols too have been used to spread the Easter message. Many of these have also become very familiar. Others are less well known.