Ben notes that all his logos are far from a final design, but rather try to capture something of a style which can be modified later.

ELEMENTS

After much consideration and reflection, it strikes me that our new crest should include the following elements...

a cross - of Celtic form to reflect our Irish origins - despite the Irish connection, such a cross has no cultural baggage that would hinder its acceptance in any other culture.

b The cruciform should Reach Out and Embrace - the openness of the cross Reaches Out but, I believe, we could curve the ends  of the horizontal arms inwards a little - like someone with arms outstretched and the hands inclined in welcome. This is developed further below.

c A half globe located in the centre of the cross - the arms are welcoming and nurturing of the Earth and the world - the good, the bad and the ugly; all peoples, inclusive of all cultures, religions, etc. The juxtaposition of globe and curved arms of the cross is like a hug that strengthens both parties - we minister, and in ministering, we receive.

d A star is an historical part of our graphical history stemming from the biblical quotation about those who instruct - no matter what our current ministry is, there is always an educative element that could be acknowledged in this way - a star has other biblical connotations in terms of giving light or guidance and pointing the way to Christ.

REPRESENTATION

a To visualise what I have in mind, I would begin with the Saint Patrick's Province Cross

b Curve the ends of the horizontal arms inwards. In order to make the effect noticeable, it could be that the ends - lengthened to suit - could even curve right around.

c Fill in the inside of the cross' anulus with a generic half globe (a few lines of latitude and longitude) or, perhaps, replace the anulus with a bigger half globe.

d Place a star at the heart of the earth (with the number of points equalling the number of Provinces, if desired).

e If desired, there could be local variations on the star by using the North star in Europe or the Southern Cross in Oceania, for example.

f If colour is used, earth tones and, perhaps, emerald green could be considered.