The Meaning of OUr Crest

Cross as Central  

The first distinctive characteristic of Charis Classical Academy is ‘Gospel-centered,’ thus the center of the crest is the cross. We believe that a gospel-centered education orients children to the truth and aids in their understanding of the world  around them.  

Hazel Branch  

The hazel branch in heraldry means joy, representing Joyful Discovery in our distictives.  We want our students  to have a rich awareness of the beauty of God’s creation in all aspects of life; encouraging children’s natural  curiosities in life, art, literature and nature. 

Open Bible  

The open Bible represents the Word of God as the foundation of truth and knowledge.  “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge.” (Proverbs 1:7) 

Tree  

The tree has several meanings in the Charis crest. We pray that our students will grow to be oaks of righteousness  for the sake of the gospel, and rooted in grace & truth. Our hope is that our students grow to be like the Psalmist’s  description:  

“Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water that  yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers.”  (Psalm 1:1-3)  

The acorn in the tree stands for antiquity & strength.  

Pitcher  

The pitcher in heraldry means service. At Charis, we always want to be looking outward, serving the community  around us as though we are serving Jesus.  

“Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not  only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” (Philippians 2:3–4)  

Latin Phrase  

“Radicata in Gratia et Veritate” means “Rooted in Grace and Truth.”