CSI Michigan, Church of South India, CSI Church, CSI Congregation of Great Lakes

The symbols, the lotus and the Christian cross, used in the logo of the church possess a rich cultural heritage which help understand the call and mission of the CSI Church.

Lotus, a typical Indian flower, is a temple flower. Mythologically it is supposed to be the seat of the creator. “Pankajam” one of the Indian names for lotus has a very significant meaning, it means 'that born in mud'. This flower blossoms at sunrise and withers away after sunset, in other words it lives if it receives the sunrays, hence it is also called 'THAMMIPUVE' the flower of the sun. All these meanings attributed to the flower suit well to interpret the position, nature, and role of the people in the bond of union.

The petals of the lotus and the cross are beautifully knitted together with the fiery tongues of the Holy Spirit. It is an authentic Indian expression of people's communion with God. The original colors, red (for life) and purple (for piety and ecclesiastical) in white backdrop implicitly communicate the nature of the mystical union, where an inseparable companionship is established which, again, a typical Indian thought form.

The words "THAT THEY ALL MAY BE ONE, CHURCH OF SOUTH INDIA" are embossed in a circle round the lotus and the cross. The words are taken from the high priestly prayer of Jesus Christ who prayed not only for the 'Church' but also for the whole world. This universality is portrayed by placing the words in a form of circle, a symbol which also represents the universe.

"That they all may be one; that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in Me, and I am in You. (John 17:21)", is an inclusive affirmation showing explicitly that Christ is the Head and the Church, His body. It also symbolizes the prayer of the Church, that not only Churches need to be united but all people of this country which can be interpreted as a meaningful prayer for national integration.

The imposing central position of the cross in the logo conveys the idea that it was the indefatigable, selfless supreme sacrifice of Jesus on the cross is the basis of the Church and its faith. The cross runs through the Lotus depicting its cleansing act working in the hearts of the members of the Church and restoring them to the pristine purity of heaven. It is also the cross that guides all members inside and outside to join in one stream to pray and labor, united for a peaceful coexistence and communal harmony.