Where the bar and crossbar meet, an area called the rays, is an ellipse shaped, borderless space. It is created thanks to a phenomenon called “closure” that relies on our human eye’s tendency to see closed shapes. Closure works where an object is incomplete or not fully traced, but in our mind, we perceive a complete shape by filling in the missing information. The egg shape it creates is the symbol of the universe, God’s Creation and the eclosion of Spirit into the world.  It is also the iconographic symbol for Saint Mary Magdalene. The egg has rich symbolism in Christianity. It symbolizes Jesus coming forth from the tomb, Risen and Alive which brings new hope, new beginnings, and new directions for the followers of Jesus.  Mary Magdalene was present at the empty tomb and experienced the Risen Christ there. She moved forward from this event with hope and new possibilities for her and those with whom she shared this Good News.

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Under each arm of the cross is a stylized M.  Together they represent the Two Mary’s at the foot of the cross. The blue M is for Mary the Mother of Jesus and the whole Church. The crimson M represents Mary Magdalene.

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The braided sweetgrass at the foot of the cross respectfully acknowledges that the churches of St. Mary Magdalene Parish are located on unceded and unsurrendered traditional Wolastoqey territory. Sweetgrass represents the hair of our Earth Mother and is considered sacred medicine. Sweet grass teaches about our human responsibility to honour Earth Mother’s gifts by ensuring that they survive for the generations yet to be born. For that reason, we are asked to protect and keep the spirit of sacredness within all physical gifts through ceremony. Braided sweetgrass also symbolizes the connection of mind, body and spirit and embodies spiritual strength.

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Each Wabanaki nation use the double curve motif to represent their identity. It is contained at the top of the logo and represents the life journey in the physical world. In the Wabanaki tradition it represents life in the womb, life in the physical world and return to the spirit world. In the Christian tradition it evokes the symbolism embedded in The Holy Trinity.

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Logos are symbolic and carry more than what has been expressed in these few words of explanation. This Logo is available for you to pray with, reflect on and allow other meaningful connections that assist you in your spiritual and ministry journey.