The PCA Crest

The Meaning Behind the PCA Crest

The Prestonwood Christian Academy crest is more than just a symbol of the institution. Its unique elements portray the emphasis that PCA places on biblical heritage and the truths found in God’s Word. Each aspect of the crest is intentional and a reflection of PCA’s Christ-centered principles.

The LION is a symbol of courage, strength, gracefulness and perseverance. As Christians, we strive to incorporate each of these qualities into our daily lives. The lion is a beautiful, yet tremendously strong animal that walks without fear and leads with unabashed knowledge of the battles it may face in order to achieve its goals. “The wicked flee when no one is pursuing, but the righteous are bold like a lion.” Proverbs 28:1

The CROSS in the color red represents Christ’s ultimate sacrifice. The red PCA cross signifies the blood that He shed for each of us. It is the dominant centerpiece of the PCA crest. “In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace.” Ephesians 1:7

The LAUREL plant is a Mediterranean evergreen tree (Laurus nobilis). The two laurels surrounding each side of PCA’s shield represent honor and glory continually won for great achievement to God’s glory in all areas of the institution. A wreath of laurel was conferred as a mark of honor in ancient times upon poets, heroes and victors in the arenas of art and athletic contests. “But that you may grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ…” 2 Peter 3:18

The origins of the SHIELD date back to the Bible’s Shield of David, which symbolized God’s loving care and protection. The gold shield of PCA’s crest also represents the armor of God and the equipping of the PCA community to fight the enemy and protect its honor in the name of Jesus Christ. It is identified as a symbol of power over evil and the bringing about unity through bringing about peace. “…the Lord is my strength and my shield.” Psalm 28:7

Embracing the bottom of the PCA shield is the LATIN phrase “Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam” which means “To the Greater Glory of God.” This Latin language phrase is the cornerstone of all that PCA strives to achieve. Greater than any man’s glory, but all to God’s glory. “Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men.” Colossians 3:23

The color BLUE is often associated with depth and stability. It symbolizes trust, loyalty, wisdom, confidence, intelligence, faith, truth and heaven. Dark blue (navy) is also known to represent knowledge, strength, integrity and being intentional. “…that in the holiness and godly sincerity, not in fleshly wisdom, but in the grace of God, we have conducted ourselves in the world, and especially toward you.” 2 Corinthians 1:1

The meaning of the color GOLD is light and wisdom found in our ultimate gift of Jesus Christ. Gold symbolizes dignity and quality and evokes high regard. It is a precious metal that can be changed through fire, just as we are called to be molded into Christ-likeness on earth. “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?” Psalm 27:1