The Church of Jesus Christ Reveals a New Logo

In a recent general conference, President Russell M. Nelson asked us to use the Church’s correct name – the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints- to properly acknowledge whose church this is.

Last night in General Conference, the prophet revealed a beautiful new logo for the church.

I’m not sure if we had an official logo before this announcement, but I think the image or silhouette of the Angel Moroni statue– found on the east center spire of the Salt Lake temple– may have been considered the unofficial symbol.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Logo Incorporates Several Important Elements

Front and center, the logo displays Thorvaldsen’s Christus. The Church has used the Christus extensively in its literature and other publications, and it is widely associated with the Church.

The Church purchased a replica of the statue in the 1950s to illustrate to the world our belief in Jesus Christ.  Since then, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has placed 17 other statues around the world.  The two most well-known statues are located at the Salt Lake Temple Square Visitor’s Center and at the newly completed Rome Italy Temple.

Next, the logo prominently displays the Church’s name.  When I was a kid the title of the church was all one font size.  Then, in the summer of 1997, it was updated to emphasize “Jesus Christ” in a larger text to highlight our central belief in Him.

The rectangle around the title represents a cornerstone, referencing the biblical passage of “Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone.”

Surrounding the Christus is an archway, symbolizing Christ’s emergence from the tomb.

One final element I noticed is the set of converging angled lines used in the outro in many recent media presentations produced by the Church.  I think this is a thoughtful inclusion of existing branding.

President Nelson said of the logo:

[The symbol] portrays the resurrected, living Lord reaching out to embrace all who will come unto Him.

Image Credit: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints