Hillhurst United Church Logo:

A visual representation of our philosophy

The logo for Hillhurst was birthed out of a desire to represent to the eye, in a new and relevant way, the already existing core aspects and values that make Hillhurst the unique community of faith that it is.

This font was chosen for its traditional stone and brick texture, signifying the importance of our building, growth, heritage, and the foundations that have been laid. The cracked nature of the font implies an understanding of the humility that is necessary to accept that we will not be perfect, but that we are always in progress on our journey.

The dominant colours of grey and purple were selected for the following:

Grey: We are not a church of “black and whites.” We live, as our Minister, John Pentland, has said, in “shades of grey.” We seek to be open to questions, finding answers in unexpected places, and providing safe places for people to discover and celebrate who they are without risk of judgement. The colour grey also represents timelessness, durability, and potential.
Purple: Each colour in the rainbow flag has a corresponding meaning. Purple is the colour of “spirit.” Purple also embodies the balance of red stimulation and blue calm. It also exemplifies a sense of mystery and the mystic. The color purple also represents creativity.

The symbols surrounding the text contain meaning in both their colours and shape. The shapes are chameleon-like in their ability to represent what the viewer imagines them to be. They could be the wings of a dove, advocating peace. A bright and undying flame, indicating renewed energy and the Spirit. The leaves of a tree, indicating our connectedness to nature.

Along with their colours, these shapes take on deeper and more diverse meanings. Together, they contain all of the colours of the GLBT (Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transidentified) rainbow, which proudly and deliberately displays our Affirming Ministry stance and the place of healing and hope that we aim to be for all people who have been traditionally marginalized by religion.

We see varying symbols when each piece is interpreted solely with its colour. The red and orange flames of Pentecost. The yellow sun, giving light and hope. The green earth, exhibiting our responsibility in caring for our planet and our need to be aware of global issues. The blue ocean and sky, suggesting endless possibilities, and the infinite depths of the spiritual and sacred.

Wholly, the image flows and is full of action and movement. The circle is not closed, as the openings make room to welcome people in and out. It is also the coming together of two entities to make one - as every movement towards community is a conscious and collective effort. Through this layering of colours and symbols, the dynamic core values of social justice, spirituality, and radical hospitality are communicated.