The historic symbol of the Trinity that is seen on our letterhead uses the symbol of the Father (Creator God) in the form of a hand descending (Top left hand corner). The symbol of the Son (Holy Redeemer) is shown to the right as a Shepherd carrying a lamb that is referenced to Jesus Christ who has redeemed us and the symbol of the Spirit is seen directly below in the form of a dove (Life Giving Spirit). Each symbol is connected with the Latin words 'Non est," (That which is not) indicating that the Father 'is not' the Son and the Spirit 'is not' the Father nor the Son and vice versa. The three symbols are connected by the Latin word 'Est' (That which is), and these point to the center triangular figure with the Latin word 'Eus' (To have the nature of or resemblance of), which indicates that the three distinct persons of the Trinity have and share in the same nature of divinity.

Traditionally, we have referred to the Trinity as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Today however, a contemporary understanding of the unique character of each is better stated as God Creator, Redeemer, and Life Giving/Holy Spirit. In this way each person shows forth a unique relationship and role in the godhead while sharing in a like divinity.

As our world gets smaller because of improved transportation and communications, we must begin to recognize our connection to each other on the planet Earth. While there has always been much to divide human beings from one another, we are growing in our awareness of a common heritage and the necessity to live together in harmony and mutual respect.

As most people are conscious of their ancestral contributions, we Episcopalians are mindful of our past. It is broad and varied even to this day among the 27 autonomous bodies who form the Anglican Communion around our World.

To celebrate this inclusive diversity and to summarize our aspirations as members of Trinity Parish, we offer these five statements:

Regard for our roots in Jewish heritage
Connected to Tradition by Apostolic Succession
Universal in Scope and Presence
Open to New Truth through Scholarship and Prayer
Respect for All People regardless of Race, Status or Sexual Identity.

The Cross is basic to all Christians. It reminds us of Christ's death and resurrection. Death, like birth, is not the end; but only a new beginning to a larger life with God.

The Triangle is a common symbol of the Trinity. It reminds us of the mystery of our God whom we know as Creator, Redeemer, and Sanctifier - most traditionally as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. It points to the One above; whom we worship and from whom we receive life.

The other inverted Triangle catches this life and points to where we live. It reminds us that our lives should be filled with awe, learning, and activity - or Worship, Education, and Service. It enjoins us to self-awareness and to sharing for the development of community.

When you place these two triangles together they form the Star of David which reminds us of our roots in a more ancient community, our Jewish heritage. It can also suggest that God will only be pleased when all people, of every tribe and nation, come together in peace and in union with the One who is Love.

We come together in this Unity as gifted people and are privileged to be people who give. A people with a strong past, living in a changing present, with faith in an eternal future.