The dominant structural and theological element in the design is the cross, the universal and ecumenical symbol of the Christian church. The cross represents the incarnate love of God in Jesus Christ and his death and resurrection. The Celtic cross was chosen as the model.
In experimenting with the basic lines and shapes of the cross, the contour of a book began to emerge in the horizontal section, and the two center lines of the cross became the representation of an open book. This integrating the cross’ horizontal dimension with the book highlights the emphasis our tradition places on the central role of Scripture.
The upper section is in the shape of a descending dove, symbolic of the Holy Spirit, affirming its role in both inspiring/interpreting Scripture, and in Jesus’ baptism by John. Beneath the image of the book is the suggestion of a pulpit, symbolic of the important role of preaching in Presbyterian worship.
Integrated into the lower part of the design are flames which form an implied triangle, a traditional symbol of the Trinity. The flames themselves convey a double meaning: a symbol of revelation when God spoke to Moses from the burning bush and of the beginning of the Christian church at Pentecost.
Other visual components of the design include a fish, an early-Christian sign for Christ, a baptismal font and/or a communion cup. The seal’s individual parts, when taken together, form an encompassing visual and symbolic unity, while not exhausting the richness of possible interpretations.