The Chapel Carvings - Entrance

The plaque in the entrance to the Memorial Chapel is a composite composed of 9 symbols:

• Descending dove - Matthew 3:16.  "It came as a dove from Heaven."  The dove is the most widely recognized symbol of the Holy Spirit.
• Grapes and the vine - Matthew26:27-29, Luke 22:18.  Holy Communion, "the fruit of the vine" in the account of the last supper.  Also, in John 15:5, Jesus said "I am the vine, you are the branches."  This often symbolizes the unity of the church.
• Fleur-de-lis - no scriptural basis.  However, this is an old emblem symbolizing the Trinity, because of the three-fold division.  It is also emblematic of the Virgin Mary.
• Chalice - Matthew 26:27.  One of the first Christian symbols.  In addition to Holy Communion, it stands for faith and worship.
• Wheat - Matthew 26:27-28.  Stands for the "Bread of Life," or Holy Communion.
• Bible superimposed on the cross - this is a composite that speaks for itself.
• Burning bush -  Acts 2:14. "The seven-tongued flame."  From the story of Pentecost, this is used frequently in Presbyterian symbols to represent the Holy Spirit.
•  Fish - Luke 24:42.  This symbol arises from the story of Jesus eating a piece of fish after the resurrection.  It was used by persecuted Christians as a method of conveying a message to other Christians.
• Crown - James 1:12.  Represents Christ's kingship and our reward.  "The Crown of Life" is a symbol borrowed directly from scripture.  "Eternal Life to those who follow Christ, the King of Kings."