Our Logomark

Approved in 1989, the system logomark is comprised of three parts: the TAU cross, the book of the Gospels and the shining sun. All are important symbols in their own right and were used within the design because of their relevance to the Franciscan tradition.

The central portion of the logomark forms the TAU cross – TAU for the Greek letter T. The TAU cross was adopted by St. Francis of Assisi as a sign of blessing. It is taken from the Hebrew Scriptures (the prophet Ezekiel) and the New Testament Scriptures (the book of Revelation) as the sign God used to mark the foreheads of his faithful remnant people. Francis used it himself and since then Franciscans all over the world identify themselves and their work with the TAU cross.

The open book of the Gospels lies above the horizontal bar of the TAU cross. Francis’ goal (and his followers after him) was to live the Gospel as fully as possible by imitating Christ through a life of prayer and loving service, especially for those in need: the poor, the suffering, the oppressed. It was in the faces of these people that Francis especially recognized God’s presence.

The top portion of the logomark shows the sun emanating around the TAU and the Gospels – indicating the blessedness of all that we are and do. This is rooted in Gospel values and in Franciscan tradition: the world and all of life is holy and reflects the presence of God.

The services provided by the Wheaton Franciscan System today are rooted in the ministries, traditions and heritage of the religious communities of our sponsor and co-sponsors. As “partners in ministry,” all associates, volunteers, physicians, and board members within the System participate in and continue that heritage symbolized in the logomark.