Please read the following information. A link to the cross and spiral files is at the bottom of this page.
Style Guide:
Cross and Spiral
All in the Family
Family is very important to us all. So looking like you belong to a family is vital to understanding who that family is. Along with the Community of Christ nameplate and church seal, the cross and spiral is another image that points us toward peace.
Here we have created a standard between family members. Each relationship is as important to one as to another. As we consistently use our family of church graphics, including the cross and spiral, we establish a Community of Christ identity that others will recognize.
The Cross and Spiral
Spirals exist throughout creation, from the tiniest DNA to the enormity of the cosmos. So, in the use of the spiral in the Temple, we have a symbol that intimates God is present throughout the universe. The Temple as a life-giving symbol illustrates many of the concepts we have received through divine inspiration. For example: “Understand that the road to transformation travels both inward and outward” (Doctrine and Covenants 161:3d). As we recognize the depth and possibilities of these words, the Temple spiral can provide an actual map for this journey.
The presence and placement of the cross reflects recent counsel: “Jesus Christ, the embodiment of God’s shalom, invites all people to come and receive divine peace in the midst of the difficult questions and struggles of life” (Doctrine and Covenants 163:2a). The cross, the central Christian symbol of the divine drama of redemption, represents the heart of God, which spirals out in love. The spiral flowing out of and back to the cross is a representation of the out-flowing love of God and the journey into that love. To learn more about the Temple as life-giving symbol read the article, "Rivers of Living Water."
Cross and Spiral Guidelines
The cross and spiral illustration must be used in its original rendering. Altering the appearance of the cross and spiral design in any way damages the consistency and strength of the whole. Simplicity is the key to maintaining an elegant appearance.
- The cross and spiral is a gift to the church that illustrates many things to many people. It can be used for specific purposes where it fits appropriately in terms of design and message. The nameplate, however is still the anchor of our identity.
- The cross and spiral is available in color and grayscale. The color spiral and cross should always be shown in the specified colors. If color printing is not available, use the grayscale version of the illustration.
- Give it room to breathe. The cross and spiral can be positioned in many places on an application, allowing for great flexibility of layout. It is recommended, however that it is placed in an area that will afford it maximum visibility. The cross and spiral should be displayed in print at 1” or larger.
Make sure nothing is placed inside the green range of the cross and spiral. This will ensure it has enough space around it.
- The cross and spiral can be used with the nameplate. One graphic is provided that allows the Community of Christ nameplate and the cross and spiral to appear together. No other combination or arrangement should be used.
- The cross and spiral illustration is a trademark of Community of Christ.
Incorrect Use of Cross and SpiralCare must be taken to avoid incorrect use of the cross and spiral. Such use can weaken or damage the integrity, impact, and consistency of the cross and spiral.
Here are some things you should never do with the cross and spiral:
- Do not modify, deconstruct, or recreate the graphic. It just weakens the strength of the image and creates confusion. The cross and spiral should be used from the original graphic file so optimal sharpness and clarity are achieved.
Do not separate the cross and spiral elements
Do not use a reversed version or one that is pixelated
Don't be tempted to write words around the spiral or
through the middle of the graphic
- The cross and spiral stands on its own and should not be combined with other logos (for example - the logo of a particular event or a specific congregation). This maintains the strength of the Community of Christ identity.
Don't try to make two logos into one.
Keep them separate so each can stand on its own
Do not combine with a specific event or congregation
If you have questions about using the cross and spiral, please contact Integrated Communications at (816) 521-3042 or 1-800-825-2806, ext. 3042, or e-mail Communications@CofChrist.org.
