From the ichthys1 to the cross, symbols have been a part of Christianity since ancient history. Modern churches make great effort to connect with that history, while still reaching out to the modern parishioner. Enter: the church logo.
There are as many ways to approach logo design as there are to approach your faith. It’s hard to even say one logo is “better” than another. As long as it conveys the message of your congregation, then it’s the right logo for you.
That being said, here are some of our favorite church logos, which just might inspire you, as well.

Traditional cross logos

The cross is, of course, one of the oldest symbols of Christianity. It’s kinda what separates Jesus from just a really nice dude. As this symbol is a central tenet of the faith, using the cross in your logo positions your church as a classic house of worship, with traditional values.
logo design


Logo design by itzzzo for Christ the King


Stylized cross logos

Of course, the cross is also a wholly depressing symbol, being an instrument of torture and all. That’s why some churches try to find a to incorporate a more cheery outlook on the execution of the founder of their faith. One way to do that is to create more colorful, abstract interpretation of the cross, to deemphasize its original purpose. This can be a good way to link a less-traditional congregation with a classic symbol.
Good Shepherd church logo

Another method is to incorporate the cross into a broader design scheme, as with the following logos. Notice that these are not so much a Where’s Waldo game with the cross in place of Waldo; it’s more that the cross is part of the the larger mission.
Logo design by Zalo Estévez
Logo design by Oculus for The Point Church
Logo design by Lence Mi for Little Pebbles Ministries

Fire, no brimstone

United Methodist Church logo
Via United Methodist Church
Acts of the Apostles describes the Holy Spirit descending on the apostles as “tongues as of fire;” after which, they begin preaching to all the nations in every language. It’s exactly the sort of story a preacher would enjoy and aspire to. Thus, the proliferation of fire motifs in church logos. This fire imagery is great for any church—or church related group—who is focused on sharing the word of god. It can be interpreted in various ways: from playful and modern for a youth group, to elegant and traditional, like the Methodist Church logo.
Logo & business card design by Terry Bogard for Tamara Joy Scott Ministries
Logo design by okdesignstudio for Closer to God Online
Branding design by Timoftesilvia for Blaze Youth Ministry
Osmond ministries logo
Logo design by FivestarBranding

The good book

Readings from the bible are at the core of most Christian services. Incorporating a book into your church’s logo is a strong yet subtle way to assure your congregation that this church is firmly rooted in scripture.
river city church logo
Logo design by Nagual

Light of the world

“The light of the world” is a phrase that comes up more than once in the Gospels. At different times, Jesus says both, “I am the light of the World” and “You are the light of the world.” It makes sense to incorporate this into your logo, as both Christ and the church can help “light the way” for congregants.
Etowah church logo
Logo design by CogitoDesigns for Etowah
church logo
Logo design by FivestarBranding
church logo
Logo design by Nemvs

Animals & nature

Animal symbolism has long been a part of Christianity. Jesus refers to his followers as his “flock.” The Bible often uses a dove to symbolize the Holy Spirit. And Christians utilized the ichthys as a secret symbol as far back as the 2nd century, well before it was a glorified bumper sticker.

salvador foundation logo
Logo design by Vectorial Horizon
Sikhi logo
Logo design by Nelli Design for Sikhi
Faith Fed logo
Logo design by maestro_medak for Faith Fed
Hopewell church logo
Logo design by rickshow
church logo
Logo design by EMARSHmallow for The Truth Will Set You Free
christian charitable organization logo
Logo and brand identity by Oculus for dgardner8265
OpenCircle church logo
Logo design by Muinice
church logo
Via Church of the Lamb
Beyond the specific symbolism above, you may create a welcoming atmosphere by evoking nature. After all, “God looked at everything he had made, and found it very good,” so why shouldn’t you?
church logo
Logo design by Dalibor Pajic for Timber Creek Church
church logo
Logo design by haganhuga for The Harbor Church
church logo
Logo design by ianskey for Christian Life Center
church logo
Logo design by minimalexa

Abstract church logos

Sometimes, you don’t need to go with the obvious symbolism. After all, there’s likely going to be plenty of crosses and candles around your church, anyway. That’s when it’s a good idea to find a logo that’s evocative of religious life, while not being quite so on-the-nose about it. Abstract logos can also give your church a more modern feel.
church logo
Logo design by Ian Douglas
church logo
Logo design by GREAT
church logo
Logo design by oculus for Community Church Nottingham
church logo
Logo design by colorato
church logo
Logo design by Lush Logos for City Life Church
church logo
Logo design by Dave N Roach
church logo
Logo design by itzzzo for New City Church
church logo
Logo design by minimalexa for Paradox Church
church logo
Logo design by FivestarBranding

Let the Spirit guide you

Choosing a logo for your church can be intimidating. It’s the first thing many people will see on social media, your website, even the banners outside the church itself. But if you take a quiet moment to reflect on the kind of first impression you wish to make, you’ll find the right logo will speak to you.