Our history, our present, and our future are represented in this logo.

The first presbytery in the bounds of the synod was the Dakota Presbytery, established in 1844.  It was “bounded on the north by the International Line; on the west by the Pacific Ocean, on the south by Iowa and Missouri; and on the east by Wisconsin.” (Source:  The History of the Dakota Presbytery of the Presbyterian Church in the United States of America, by Adams, Renville and Williamson, Good Will, SD, 1892)

Our Native roots are evident in the circle, reminiscent of the medicine wheel and our call to heal divisions, make amends, and further reconciliation through our ministries.  The four quadrants remind us of the four directions (west, north, east, and south) which symbolize the life of both humans and the world in which we live.

The blue waters of the lakes and the green of the prairies remind us of the gifts that nurture us today and the gifts we will protect for tomorrow. Within the boundaries of our Synod, there are two of the Great Lakes, thousands of smaller lakes left behind by the last glacier, and numerous man-made lakes, all supporting wildlife, commerce, and recreational activities. The lines in the green speak to crops planted and harvested; we live in awe that food grown in this Synod is used around the world. The solid green reminds us of our prairie heritage and the ongoing effort to restore native prairies for future generations.

The center image prompts memory of our Scottish heritage as Presbyterians, represented by the Celtic cross.  We also celebrate the gifts of creation, symbolized by the sun and its rays bringing growth and life to the world. The shape of the cross also suggests a wind turbine, thousands of which can be seen across the Synod, helping to lead us to a more sustainable energy future. (1)

May the words of our mouths, the meditations of our hearts, and the work of our hands, bring the hope of God’s kin-dom to all.