The Men Following Christ logo uses an outstretched hand juxtaposed with the ichthus or fish symbol. The meaning of the logo is subjective and ultimately defined by the viewer. However, common interpretations are anticipated to arise from people who perceive it through similar frames of thought, specifically those who are in Christ and who are familiar with historical symbolism in the Church. The following explanation outlines the original intentions of the logo, as they came together in the development process.
The hand is that of a man. It is separated into four fields to represent plurality. The separation occurs in the shape of a cross. The latent cross image is intended to visualize the unifying effect of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Although plurality exists, there is also unity in the Cross.
The hand is stretched upward. This is intended to represent more than one meaning. It could be viewed as on taking a stand to be counted, as one seeking divine strength and guidance, or as one offering praise to God.
The ichthus is a symbol borrowed from the early church. This symbol was used by Christians to identify themselves to other believers while under Roman persecution. It served as an acronym for “Iesous Christos Theou Huios Soter” or “Jesus Christ, God’s Son, Savior”. The ichthus is intended to serve in the Men Following Christ logo as an identifying mark as well. The juxtaposition of the ichthus on the palm of the hand, combined with its color red is intended to visualize the wounds of Christ and the suffering He bore.
Thus, bringing these graphic elements together, the Men Following Christ logo visualizes men united in Christ and identified in His suffering, willing to offer themselves, with God’s power, as living sacrifices for His glory.