Jesus was fond of using imagery in His parables, such as coins and vines, to convey realities in the kingdom of heaven. In today’s church, Christians often use the same symbols throughout the sanctuary and in worship materials. In his collection of more than six hundred hand-drawn Christian symbols, author and artist Edward Riojas dives into the extensive history of the imagery many see in worship. A Complete Guide to Christian Symbols invites readers to reconnect with the historic symbolism of the Christian Church through this concise and complete collection. This volume provides a wealth of symbolism in one place, one artistic style, and one format.
“We look at a dusty tome filled with symbols, inwardly declare that it is no longer relevant, and fail to recognize that its essence is as worthy of our attention now as when first wrought by our ecclesiastical forebears,” Riojas said. “This collection, therefore, is meant to edify and enrich; it is intended to remind us of the manifold blessings of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ; it is meant to be, as it were, frontlets between our eyes.”
This detailed volume shows that a simple design can accent—and even deepen—the understanding of the richness of Scripture. Each symbol included in these pages goes into the beautiful and historical connection to generations of Christians who have worshiped throughout the centuries. Different variations of the same symbols are included alongside a short explanation to show how they have evolved over the years.
“A Christian’s life is immersed in beauty,” said Sarah Gulseth, digital media specialist at KFUO Radio. “With his brilliantly artistic mind and deep understanding of Lutheran theology, Edward Riojas guides us through the beautiful symbolism that surrounds us in the rhythm of our liturgical lives. . . . The curious observer, like me, will no longer wonder what symbols on a vestment represent, what a stained glass window depicts, or what a saint’s clothing means. Now, we can recognize and confirm the beautiful symbolism that continually points us to Christ, His promises to us, and the gifts we receive from Him through the church.”
Visit cph.org/christiansymbols for more information. Contact Erica Sontag to schedule an interview with the author.
Praise for A Complete Guide to Christian Symbols
Edward Riojas’s A Complete Guide to Christian Symbols is a spiritually enriching guide to the history, meaning, and significance of Christian symbols in religious rituals, liturgical art, and everyday life. From highlighting elements of familiar symbols to identifying intricate details of lesser-used iconography, Riojas uses thoughtful explanations and detailed illustrations to take readers on a fascinating journey of symbolism in Christianity. His expert commentary on liturgical art as it relates to Holy Scripture will inform, inspire, and deepen your understanding of your faith. This book is an essential resource for theologians, artists, and anyone interested in Christianity.
—Carrie Roberts, founder, Ecclesiastical Sewing
Ed Riojas has provided us with a comprehensive and interesting guide to understanding the language of symbolism in the church. I plan on using this book as a guide to teach my children about Christian symbols. I appreciate the thoroughness of his research in incorporating several different Christian traditions and the history of symbols being used. This book is a library of images to aid pastors, laypeople, and families in catechesis. It is a wonderful companion to assist in the understanding of Christian art in museums, churches, and books. This book is a gift to the church!
—Kelly Schumacher (Uffenbeck), liturgical artist, Agnus Dei Liturgical Arts
A Christian’s life is immersed in beauty. With his brilliantly artistic mind and deep understanding of Lutheran theology, Edward Riojas guides us through the beautiful symbolism that surrounds us in the rhythm of our liturgical lives. He seamlessly weaves church history, traditions, and teachings with the shapes, colors, words, faces, and fabrics of the church, creating a remarkably thorough resource for pastors and laity alike. He describes in detail the tremendous significance of the images and objects we regularly encounter. The curious observer, like me, will no longer wonder what symbols on a vestment represent, what a stained glass window depicts, or what a saint’s clothing means. Now, we can recognize and confirm the beautiful symbolism that continually points us to Christ, His promises to us, and the gifts we receive from Him through the church.
—Sarah Gulseth, digital media specialist, KFUO Radio
Equally beneficial to the liturgical artist and the curious church member, this book is extremely user friendly as a navigation tool through the world of Christian symbolism. It particularly shines in its attention to the visuals most frequently encountered in the context of congregational worship. The attention given to symbols connected with Reformation history and the theologically informed guidance as to the appropriate use of various symbolic representations make for a unique resource that is as practical as it is visually captivating.
—Kelly Klages, artist and illustrator
About the Author
Edward Riojas graduated summa cum laude from Aquinas College, Grand Rapids, Michigan, with a BFA degree. He has worked professionally for more than forty years, including thirty-one years in the newspaper industry. Riojas has returned to his fine-art roots, creating sacred art for commissions and collaborations with various Lutheran entities. His work can be found in sanctuaries, institutions, private collections, and markets throughout the United States and across the globe.
