On the high rafters, eight small monograms interspersed with floral designs
are painted in gold. Each monogram has its own beam, and the series of eight
repeats down the full length of the nave. From the apse to the rear, they are...
- ihs = (iota eta sigma) - the first three letters of "Jesus" in Greek (Ihsus).
- Χ (chi) and Ρ (rho) - the first two letters of "Christ" in Greek (Christos). ΡΧ can also mean "Peace" in Latin (pax).
- Χ and Ρ intertwined - again, chi-rho for "Christ".
- Ρ on a cruciform Χ with N superimposed - chi-rho for "Christ"; N for "victory" in Greek (nika). Symbolizes Christ's victory over the cross.
- Ι (iota) with Χ (chi) - the Greek initials for Jesus and for Christ.
- Latin cross with Α encircled - alpha starts the Greek alphabet, as God is the origin or everything; circles mean eternity and perfection.
- Latin cross with Ω - omega concludes the Greek alphabet, as God is the end of all things.
- Latin cross with ΑΜΩ - alpha, mu, and omega are the first, middle, and last letters of the Greek alphabet, so signify the breadth of eternity or immortality: "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever" (Hebrews 13:8).