Cross and Sun Rays
Published on
March 23, 2017

A visual symbol that can be placed on the cover of service bulletins, within the written liturgy, or on a large screen display.

Black and white .jpeg image for download. Color .jpeg image for download.

Description of Cross and Sun Rays

During the season of Epiphany we focus on God revealing himself to the world in the Christ child. The rays, spreading out from the center of the sun, represent the dispersion of the gospel to the four corners of the earth. The cross reminds us of Jesus Christ, the one who brings together the vertical and horizontal, the earthly and heavenly, and brings life from death. The hope of this gift is for all generations in all places. As children of the light we must bear this light to those we encounter in our daily lives.

Scripture References

  • Luke 2:30-32

  • Isaiah 60:1-3

  • 2 Corinthians 4:4-6

Occasions for Use

  • Epiphany

  • Confession and Assurance

  • Proclaiming the Word

  • Creation

  • Providence

  • Advent

  • Christmas

  • Easter

  • Pentecost

The image is an original linoleum block print resulting from a printmaking process in which an image is drawn on a block of wood covered with a thin layer of linoleum, and then hand-carved to expose areas that will be white. Ink is rolled onto the block, covering the surface not cut away. Paper made from the mulberry tree is laid on top and hand rubbed with a Japanese barren or wooden spoon. In transferring the ink to the paper the resulting image is a reflection of the design placed on the block. It first appeared in the book Visuals for Worship (Faith Alive Christian Resources, 2006) which is no longer in print.

When using the image please include the following acknowledgment: “Linoleum block print by Elizabeth Steele Halstead."