Information about the PC(USA) Seal and Use

The seal of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) is a symbolic statement of the church’s heritage, identity, and mission in contemporary form. Its power depends on both its simplicity and complexity, as well as its traditional and enduring qualities.

The seal is designed with a simplicity that enables the viewer to retain the image in the mind’s eye. The clean, carefully measured lines and shapes can be readily recognized as a distinctive symbol, even when it is reduced in size. At the same time, the complexity of the seal stimulates the imagination and suggests several levels of meaning. The symbolic and visual qualities remind the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) of its identity and call to be the servant of Jesus Christ.

The basic symbols in the seal are the cross, Scripture, the dove, and flames. The dominant structural and theological element in the design is the cross—the universal and most ecumenical symbol of the Christian church. The cross represents the incarnate love of God in Jesus Christ, and his passion and resurrection. Because of its association with Presbyterian history, the Celtic cross was chosen as a model for this contemporary rendering of the ancient symbol.