Christian Flag Protocol

Charles Overton conceived the Christian flag in 1897 "to represent Protestants of all denominations," according to Flags of the World. The protocol for venerating the flag is simple, but there is controversy about the flag's legitimacy and its position in relation to the American flag in some churches.

Design

The Christian flag consists of a solid white rectangle with a smaller, blue rectangle in the upper left corner. A red cross is just left of center of the blue rectangle.

Symbolism

According to Flags of the World, the white symbolizes purity and peace; the blue, faith and truth; and the red symbolizes the blood of Jesus Christ and love. The cross is the central symbol.

Veneration Protocol

Worshippers face the flag and repeat an Affirmation of Loyalty to the Christian Flag, then nod to the flag, sing a hymn, and hold hands in prayer.

Flag Protocol

According to an article published by the Chalcedon Foundation, some churches also fly the American flag and, pursuant to U.S. law, give it "the position of prominence or honor over any other flag," including the Christian flag.

Controversy

Some congregants resent the protocol giving prominence to the American flag, calling it religious "subservience to the civil state." Some Protestant leaders also see the Christian flag itself as illegitimate.

References

• CRW Flags: Flags of the World: Christian Flag
• Chalcedon Foundation: Nationalism in the Sanctuary; Timothy D. Terrell; Nov. 7, 2005
• Auburn University: The Christian Flag

Resources

• Steve's Christian Flag Facts