Explore

Logo Redesign Proposal

“Toward a Ghanaian Expression of the PCG Identity”

To: The Moderator and General Assembly Council

From: Isaac Glover, PCG Member

Subject: Proposal for Reviewing the Visual Identity of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana

Dear Right Reverend Moderator and Esteemed Council Members,

Greetings in the name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

I write with deep respect and love for the Presbyterian Church of Ghana, which has shaped generations with its unwavering commitment to faith, education, and national service. As a member deeply invested in the Church’s mission and its role in Ghanaian society, I humbly submit this proposal to invite reflection on one area of our public witness: our visual identity, particularly the Church’s logo.

Honoring Our Roots

The existing logo powerfully reflects PCG’s missionary heritage:

The Swiss Flag honors the Basel Mission

The St. Andrew’s Cross commemorates the Scottish Mission

The Palm Tree acknowledges the African role in sustaining the faith

These are symbols of great historical value. However, in today’s context, many within and outside the Church, particularly the youth and newer generations, may not readily connect with or understand their significance. In an era where visual communication is crucial to mission, outreach, and identity, I believe the time is ripe to ask: How can we preserve our theological depth while also expressing our Ghanaian identity more clearly and vibrantly?

Why Consider a Visual Evolution?

Cultural Relevance: As a fully indigenized and autonomous church, a more Ghanaian-centered symbol may speak more powerfully to our context and people.

Design Simplicity & Versatility: The current logo's complexity limits its usability across digital and media platforms.

Evangelism & Youth Engagement: A symbol that reflects the Ghanaian experience of Christ could resonate more with younger generations and seekers.

This proposal is not a call to discard our roots, but to explore how our identity can be more fully expressed through design. Many historic churches around the world have refreshed their symbols to remain meaningful in changing times, while preserving their theology and story.

Suggested Path Forward

I respectfully propose the formation of a small working group or committee to:

Review the current logo’s cultural and theological resonance

Consult stakeholders, including elders, historians, youth, and creatives

Explore design directions that maintain continuity but enhance clarity, symbolism, and relevance

Should this be considered worthwhile, I would be honored to assist in research, coordination, or creative support in any way.

May this be received in the same spirit of humility and mission with which it is offered — that in all things, Christ may be made known more clearly, faithfully, and beautifully in Ghana and beyond.

Thank you for your prayerful consideration.

Grace and peace,

Isaac Glover

055 529 2385

Case Study: Church of England Logo Rebrand

Background:

The Church of England (CofE) is one of the oldest Christian institutions, with roots dating back over 1,500 years. For much of its modern history, it used various traditional emblems, including crests, shields, and the historic St. George's cross. However, these symbols, while rich in tradition, were not always effective in digital, youth, or outreach-focused contexts.

Why They Rebranded:

Inconsistent Use: Different dioceses and ministries used various logos or design styles.

Lack of Visual Unity: No single, instantly recognizable symbol of the Church.

Digital Adaptation: Traditional emblems didn’t scale or work well on modern platforms (e.g., social media, mobile apps).

Mission-Driven Focus: A need for a modern visual identity to support outreach campaigns like “Renewal and Reform.”

⁠

The New Logo (Launched ~2015):

A simple, modern “cross-in-circle” emblem

Paired with clear, sans-serif typography

Versatile across print, digital, and motion graphics

Used consistently in national communications, websites, and video branding

United Methodist Church (UMC)

Background:

The United Methodist Church was established in 1968 through the merger of The Methodist Church and the Evangelical United Brethren Church. To symbolize this union, the denomination adopted the Cross and Flame emblem.

Logo Details:

Cross: Represents Jesus Christ and the Church's foundation in Him.

Dual Flame: Symbolizes the Holy Spirit and the coming together of the two denominations. It also alludes to the tongues of fire at Pentecost (Acts 2:3) and John Wesley's experience of his heart being "strangely warmed" .

Evolution and Discussions:

The logo has been a unifying symbol for the UMC worldwide.

In recent years, discussions have emerged regarding the logo's resemblance to the burning cross used by the Ku Klux Klan, prompting some regional conferences to consider redesigns to avoid unintended associations.

Visual Comparison:

Before: Various symbols used by predecessor denominations.

After: The unified Cross and Flame emblem was adopted in 1968.

Anglican Church of Canada (ACC)

Background:

Originally known as the "Church of England in the Dominion of Canada," the ACC has undergone several changes to establish a distinct Canadian identity.

Logo Details:

General Synod Crest: Features the red cross of St. George on a white background, symbolizing the Church's English heritage, with four green maple leaves representing Canada's four ecclesiastical provinces and the nation's identity .

Indigenous Logo: Designed by Rev. Mervin Wolfleg of the Siksika Nation, this logo incorporates:

Fish: Formed by overlapping circles, representing the union of Aboriginal and European traditions.

Cross and Fish: Symbolize Christ and contain the Greek letters Alpha and Omega.

Eagle Feather: Reflects Isaiah 40:31, emphasizing strength and unity.

Colors: Represent the four peoples of the world, Mother Earth (green), and surrounding waters (blue) .

Evolution and Discussions:

The ACC has embraced symbols that reflect both its colonial heritage and the diverse cultures within Canada, especially Indigenous communities.

These efforts demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity and reconciliation.

Visual Comparison:

Before: Traditional English symbols without specific Canadian elements.

After: Incorporation of Canadian symbols like the maple leaf and Indigenous motifs.

Lessons for PCG:

Even ancient, deeply rooted churches can refresh their image to enhance clarity and relevance.

A new logo doesn’t reject tradition — it extends it into a new generation.

The Church of England created brand guidelines to ensure consistency across dioceses — something PCG could model.

Modernization: Simplified and meaningful designs are more adaptable across various media platforms.

Want to print your doc?
This is not the way.

Try clicking the ⋯ next to your doc name or using a keyboard shortcut (

CtrlP

) instead.