The logo shows the rolling hills characteristic of Eltham/Research and Montmorency in the background. The waterways of the area (the Yarra, the Plenty river, the Diamond creek) are symbolized in the foreground and the distinctive colour of the Eltham copper butterfly is also depicted. We consciously situate ourselves in our environment, giving thanks to our Creator for the part the natural world plays in our very existence. This is the context in which we live and serve and worship.
In the words of Psalm 121, "I lift my eyes to the hills.. " is a daily occurrence living in this
area. In the scriptures mountains are associated with encountering God – for example, Moses on Mt Sinai and Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, together with the mountaintop experience of the Transfiguration. With three hills shown, the three areas of Montmorency, Eltham and Research are represented.
Two of our parish boundaries are the Plenty River and the Yarra River. On the visual, symbolic level these two rivers reflect the coming together of the spiritual journey of the two parishes of St Faiths Montmorency and St Margarets Eltham, since the amalgamation in June 2007. The confluence point (where the colour changes) of the two rivers represents new life, unity and future directions together. Historically, the confluence of the Yarra and Diamond Creek was a gathering place for the Wurwundjeri people, so gathering is another important theme. There is also the symbolism of the river/water of life and the baptismal water.
The butterfly is a traditional symbol of resurrection. As an endangered species the Eltham Copper also represents the fragility of our environment. Previously seen only in Eltham, Nhill and Castlemaine, a new colony was discovered in Bendigo in 2008. A symbiotic relationship exists between the Sweet Bursia plant, the Native Ant and the Eltham Copper Butterfuly, where they rely on each other to survive. We can sometimes feel, as Anglicans, that we are an endangered species so this points us towards creating the conditions suitable to nurturing and growing our faith and reaching out to others. The butterfly is depicted flying upward - a symbol of moving on and of hope.
The Bolonewt font was chosen particularly because it looks like hand written calligraphy. It offers a fresh and energetic look and presents clear wording for the name tags and headings.