In Latin, “sanctus” (pronounced sonk-toos) means “holy.” It is the opening phrase of the “Holy, holy, holy,” the prayer we sing at Mass with all of the hosts of Heaven in praise of God. The gifts we offer at Sanctus Gifts are designed to inspire and to draw our customers closer to God.

The “Holy, Holy, Holy” is a prayer praising the coming of Christ as our King and Savior. The logo of Sanctus Gifts is inspired by this line and by the image of Christ as King depicted in the Chancel Rose Window of the Cathedral. There, Christ extends His holy hand in blessing over all those who gather to worship.

The gesture is one depicted frequently in historic Christian iconography. The gesture of the blessing hand shapes the letters ICXC, an abbreviation for the Greek words Jesus (IHCOYC) Christ (XPICTOC). The hand that blesses recreates the name of Jesus!

In addition to shaping letters, the gesture of blessing made by Christ also conveys doctrinal truths. The three fingers used to spell the I and X also represent the Blessed Trinity. Bringing the thumb and ring finger together not only forms the letter C, but also symbolizes the union of the divine and human natures in the person of Christ.