Thought for the week – from Alan Johnston LLM – 3rd June 2026.

Christian symbolism

Sitting in church recently I started looking around the building and couldn't help but notice the volume of symbolic items that surrounded me. As I looked, I stopped and considered the purpose, value and intentions of the symbols we see all the time but perhaps take for granted, or perhaps do not give too much thought to.

As a starting point I looked at the building I was in and realised that in many cases, the building is the representation of the church for many in society. Now don't let me confuse you, that is not to say the building is the church but rather for many it is the initial manifestation of the church. I reflected back on that moment in my journey as a Christian, back to Preston in 1990, when I looked up at that bright red illuminated cross that was on top of Emmanuel church and uttered the words “OK, Jesus, if you exist, prove it?”

At the time, that building and that cross, symbolised Jesus for me. Thirty-six years on, I have come to know Jesus more deeply and personally, than I had considered possible that evening, but my reflections made me think about how important symbols are in how we view our world and our faith. It made me think about what is important and why! I suppose, I see the symbols through two lenses: [1] a feature for me to focus on – the cross and the communion table as examples which provide a focal point in my life and worship, and [2] a means of displaying my faith. Many Christians wear a cross, a badge or a bracelet as a means of displaying their faith.

However symbolism is not just physical tangible artifacts, they are also evident in acts, the things we do and say, the love and support we show. These are symbolic of our faith and give us the opportunity to be more like Jesus. As such we are a symbol of the church! We are the reflection of Christ that people see, and I ask what do we reflect? What do we symbolise? So my brothers and sisters I ask you to think of yourself as a symbol of Christ, a reflection to the world and that we all live our lives accordingly. Amen

Alan.

Pray for …

• A growing closeness of our Churches and the villages we serve (Acaster Malbis, Appleton Roebuck, Acaster Selby, Askham Bryan, Bolton Percy, Colton, Copmanthorpe) and all that God has in store for us, moving forward together.
• Christians in our communities and around the world engaged in continuing the work of Jesus, however big or small the deed.
• Our Licensed Lay Ministers as they continue their development at Wydale this weekend

Give thanks for …

• The commitment of our brothers and sisters in Christ
• The opportunities we have to meet across our parishes throughout the week, to engage in worship and share our Christian lives.
• The Reverend Geoff Mumford, for his faith, commitment and tireless efforts to support the demands of our individual churches and communities