The Meaning of the Seal of the Presbyterian Church USA

Each Presbyterian congregation and governing body may use the Seal of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) without receiving prior permission. Let's take a closer look at the wonderful and artistic trademark of the Presbyterian Church(U.S.A.). It is described in two parts - the seal and the symbol.

This "seal" is a registered trademark designed by Malcolm Grear (Rhode Island School of Design) and a task force made up of various Presbyterians. It is comprised of several basic components; the seal being: cross, scripture, a descending dove at the upper part of the cross, and flames on either side of the lower part of the cross; and the name of the denomination encircling the symbol. The seal is a symbolic statement of the church's heritage, identity, and mission.

Now for a closer look at the "symbol".

The Cross: represents the incarnate love of God in Jesus Christ, his passion, his resurrection. The Celtic cross was chosen as a model because of its association with Presbyterian history.

The Open Book: The two center lines of the cross are the representation of an open book. This highlights the emphasis which the Reformed tradition has placed on the role of Scripture as a means of knowing God's word.

The Dove: The slightly-flared shape of the top of the cross depicts a descending dove thus a symbol of the Holy Spirit and is intimately tied to the representation of the Bible. The Spirit is both inspiring and interpreting Scripture in the life of the church. The dove also symbolizes Christ's baptism by John and the peace which is resurrection brings to a broken world.

The Lectern or Pulpit: Beneath the image of the book is the suggestion of a lectern or pulpit, which captures the important role of preaching in the history of Presbyterian worship.

The Flames: Found in the lower part of the design, they also form an implied triangle with the dove. The flames have a double meaning. As a symbol of revelations in the Old Testament when God spoke to Moses from the burning bush; and as a symbol of the beginning of the Christian church when Christ manifested himself to his apostles at Pentecost & charged them to be messengers of the good news of God's love.

The Triangle: A traditional symbol of the Trinity; also a symbol for Presbyterian government with its concern for balance and order.

Theological symbols: Let's see if you can find these. The body of the dove becomes a fish, an early symbol for Christ. The center line under the book may look like a baptismal font or a communion chalice (cup).