All You Need to Know about Orthodox Church Banners

Banners speak louder than words. They are also an effective way to communicate an idea with a large gathering without using any words. The same logic applies to church banners as well. Different types of banners symbolize different occasions and events. This article seeks to explain some key facts about Orthodox church banners.  

A banner doesn't stand alone

When we think of banners, the only image in our minds is that of a piece of fabric with the picture of icons. However, a banner does not stand alone, a lot of other components help banners fly high. Grounding a banner firmly on the ground is the church banner support. Then comes the banner pole on which the banner is placed and finally, atop the pole an intricately designed piece is placed so that the banner stays in place as it flutters in the wind.

Church banner support

First comes the church banner support. Supports are typically made of waterproof plywood and stainless steel; however, one can also find banner supports made of brass that can support heavier poles and bigger church banners. You can find supports overlaid with gold with velvet coverings that have golden designs on them or a cross. Depending on the materials used and the designs, the price of church banner supports range from around $300 to $1000.

The pole and its top

Traditionally, the poles for church banners are made of solid wood. Each pole has two parts that are screwed together. The average price of a church banner pole is $100. Atop the poles, typically one can find crosses or a leaf shaped piece with a cross engraved on it. They are usually made of brass and overlaid with gold to add a regal touch to the banner as it waves about.

Orthodox church banners

Orthodox church banners have the picture of the Lord Jesus Christ or the Most Holy Theotokos and other lithographic or embroidered icons and each banner is used for specific occasions. All church banners have a T-shaped back support on which the fabric is attached. The fabric used for the banners include brocade silk, velvet and wool. They come in a variety of rich and beautiful colors including red, green, blue, maroon, etc. Processional banners, used on significant occasions are however, made of brass overlaid with gold. The price range of Orthodox church banners is $160- $3000.