Easter Butterfly Banner by Lois Prahlow

Easter Butterfly Banner designed by Lois Prahlow. Jpg. not for republishing.
 Original Banner 11 ft. across, made with felts.

      This banner is based on Romans 6: 4… “We were buried with Christ by baptism into death, so that as He was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too, might walk in newness of life.” Its symbolism is taken from the life cycle of the butterfly. This creature starts out as a lowly caterpillar (not depicted here). The “worm” is entombed in a cocoon and later emerges as a beautiful butterfly, capable of soaring to lofty heights.

      Jesus took on human flesh, was crucified on the cross, spent three days in the grave, and was raised from the dead with a glorified body.

      In the waters of Holy Baptism (symbolized by the shell and the blue water droplets spurting from the center), the Baptized are united with Him in His death (cross), burial (cocoon), and resurrection (soaring butterfly). We are empowered by Him to daily die to sin and rise to new life of service to God and others.

      The monarch butterfly represents our King, Jesus Christ. His name is indicated with the Greek monogram, ICXC. The crown inscribed with the Greek word NIKA above the monarch speaks of His VICTORY over sin, death, and the devil for us.

      Smaller butterfly forms symbolize the Baptized. Their alleluia songs of praise are directed toward Jesus, their Monarch (top perimeter), as they fly out from the center of the banner in all directions, taking the Gospel to the uttermost parts of the world as He has commanded them to do. As new creatures in Him, they spread the fragrance of Christ (II Corinthians 2: 14-16, symbolized by delicate flowers), the Good News of forgiveness and salvation in Him alone! article by Lois Prahlow