About Christian Logo Designing
Like any brand, a Christian logo emits an emotional connection to a feeling. Careful research of the history and purpose of Christian symbols produces the most effective logo designs.
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History
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Christian logos have a wealth of symbols from which to select. Some were derived from biblical references and others assigned from early Christian circumstances that have endured changing cultural norms. Each Christian denomination has its own logo, made of symbols, which when shown together, enable people to recognize the denomination at a glance. For example, according to Epworth Steeple (see Resources), the cross and flame logo of the United Methodist Church represent Christ and the Holy Spirit. For pictures and definitions of symbols, consult "Symbols of the Church," by Carol E. Whittemore.
Significance
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The use of common symbols in Christian logo design provides a connection to the past and remembrance of the lineage that produced modern Christianity. Christian logo design is used to identify the essence of the Christian belief. Factors include not only symbols, but how symbols are placed in reference to each other, explicit or implied numbers, color and seasons. For example: purple means royalty and the number one is unity. Pictures and definitions of Christian symbols, numbers and colors can be found online at Religion Facts (see Resources).
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Function
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Begin Christian logo design by clarifying the objective of the logo. What feelings, emotions or facts do you want the viewer to experience? Select Christian symbols that represent that objective. For example, a fish represents faith in Christ. Determine the media and environment where the logo will be used. A billboard may require a more simplistic design than a website.
Considerations
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The audience exposed to the Christian logo may determine its design. Marketing Christianity to the masses may produce logos with commonly understood meanings, while an audience of believers may appreciate logos with more subtle symbolism.
Geography
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Care must be taken in the translation of Christian logos to foreign countries. While it is true that Christianity has spread to many nations, every culture has its own biases toward colors, depictions of animals and interpretation of words. For example, the Celtic cross has a circle through it. The circle has carvings denoting regions that existed before Christianity and its meaning has been associated with the sun.
Misconceptions
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Symbols commonly linked to secular or pagan beliefs require more research to uncover possible dual meanings. For example, the Easter egg, originally taken from pagan beliefs, also symbolizes new beginnings to Christians. The Easter Bunny, on the other hand, may not have a known relationship to Christianity.
Expert Insight
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You don't have to start from scratch to design a Christian logo. The sale of Christian symbols has become big business. Commonly used Christian clipart is readily available at Faith Clipart (see Resources).
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