AMEN – A Hebrew word meaning “true,” “certain” and “may it be so.”

CHI RHO – 1. This monogram is the oldest known monogram of Jesus Christ dating back to the second century. It is sometimes referred to as a Christogram. The Chi (χ = ch) and the Rho (ρ = r) are the first three
letters of Christ (Christos) in the Greek language. They are frequently found carved in the catacombs, on tombs and in wall paintings.

The Chi Rho’s popularity got a strong boost after Constantine, a great military commander and disputed Roman Emperor, was on his way to a difficult battle at the Milvian Bridge. At the bridge a larger and stronger army under the leadership of Maxentius awaited him. There are two different takes on what happened
next. Some historians say that as he prepared for battle, he saw a vision in the sky of the Chi Rho and heard a voice proclaim, “In this sign you shall conquer.” Others say that he had a dream that evening, and that someone in the dream told him to affix the symbol to his shields and to then go and face the enemy.1 The later account is most likely true; but, in either case, Constantine quickly ordered the Chi Rho painted on all of his soldiers’ shields and standards. That day his army won a decisive, upset victory at
the Milvian Bridge, allowing him to march on Rome and conquer it. The experience would deeply impact Constantine and would solidify his positive attitude towards both Christ and Christianity.