This banner is made of an antique red velveteen parament that once graced the alter of North Salem. Red is traditionally the color of Pentecost when we remember the pouring out of the Holy Spirit on the christian church and thus is appropriate for ordination and installations of those who will lead the church.  Red calls to mind that Jesus shed His own blood, giving His life for the forgiveness of sins.  It is the color of faith and courage with which we pray the new pastor will be endowed by the Holy spirit as he or she begins their ministry.
The cross hanging from a chain, purchased in Mexico, reminds us of the good news of salvation which is ours through faith in Christ and His work on the cross which will be proclaimed by the pastor.  The white lace in the form of a cross, from a friend in Texas, across the red background emphasizes how precious and special was the price paid for our sins. The open Bible represents the Word of God which contains this Good News of salvation.  The Bible is made from black felt for the cover and white felt for the pages.  Black and silver cording suggesting words on the pages and gold cording suggesting the edges of the pages are gold.  The green metallic material is used for the book mark.
The white of the stole tells of the daily cleansing of sins through baptism into the death of Christ, and the new life resulting.  White is also the color of joy and celebration.  The stile itself is a symbol of the ordained Christian ministry and is worn as a sign of humanity and submission to God's call to ministry.  Traditionally, it is not worn until it is placed on the newly ordained during the ordination service.  It reminds us of a yoke and is symbolic of putting on the yoke of Christ, thus accepting His call to service in His Kingdom:  "Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest."  The stole on this banner is one that was once used by the pastors of the Bethany-North Salem Parish.
In addition to ordinations and installations, the banner is appropriate for the celebration of a pastor's years of service in the ministry.  This banner was made for Jim Graeser, Jr's. ordination and for John Davoll's installation which were both on July 16, 1995.
The banner is finished with gold fringe.