PRESBYTERIAN WOMEN

PW SYMBOL

One of the strengths of this symbol is how new meanings continue to emerge as the symbol is used.  Here are some of its meanings, aligned with the Purpose of Presbyterian Women:

FORGIVEN AND FREED
The freed posture of the central figure is a woman rising in symbolic praise following forgiveness.

BY GOD IN JESUS CHRIST, WE COMMIT OURSELVES
The Bible is the Word, Jesus Christ; and the women coming out of it show we are freed by faith.  The outline of the central figure is that of a cross.  When the outline is filled with color, it becomes a woman.  We are Presbyterian women who have been crucified with Christ.  It is no longer we who live but Christ who lives in us.

TO NURTURE OUR FAITH THROUGH PRAYER AND BIBLE STUDY
The figure on the right is reading, studying, praying, or meditating.  She is holding a book to guide her.

TO SUPPORT THE MISSION OF THE CHURCH WORLDWIDE
The figure on the left is reaching out to care for others.  She is holding a loaf of bread, yet also can be seen making and offering, sharing, nurturing, healing.  The church worldwide is represented by the circle.  Women's offerings are made in the context of being in the middle of the global community.

TO WORK FOR JUSTICE AND PEACE
The broken chains represent severing of injustice.  The postures of the three women indicate an existence in peace, not turmoil.

AND TO BUILD AN INCLUSIVE, CARING COMMUNITY OF WOMEN
The chain is made of individual links, none being the same size or shape.  Just as each link is different, so are all women different.  The three women have no distinct features so they represent all women - young or old, any nationality or ethnic background, or with physical or mental diversities.

THAT STRENGTHENS THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (USA)
The tie to our denomination is shown by our name, "Presbyterian Women," printed in the symbol.

AND WITNESSES TO THE PROMISE OF GOD'S KINGDOM
God's kingdom is where we all hope to rise, like the central figure, in an attitude of praise with alleluias!