Green, the main color of the later Epiphany--Pre-Lenton season, symbolizes life and growth in Christ and the on-going life of the church.  The texts and scripture readings of this season bring us evidence that Christ whose humble birth we just celebrated is indeed God Almighty.  It is through the grace of God that we are called into His Kingdom and nurtured by His gracious gifts and in this banner we are urged to make use of these gifts.  It reminds us that it is through God's means of grace (Word and Sacraments--Baptism and Holy Communion) that God still manifests Himself to us today and nurtures us in the Faith.  Underscoring the whole banner is the idea that it is in the waters of Baptism, symbolized by the blue felt waves outlined in silver cording, that we are made members of His Kingdom.  To the left the grape vine made of various shades of green felt leaves and purple grapes, represents the Blood of Christ and on the right the stalks of wheat made of gold cording and grains of gold material on felt, symbolize the Bread of Life, the Body of Christ.  In the sacrament of the Lord's Supper we are assured of the forgiveness of our sins through God's Grace to us in Christ and receive his power to live the Christian life.  Centered on the banner is the Bible of white felt symbolizing God's word in the Scriptures in which we learn of His grace to us and receive guidance for living in Him.  The banner is finished in gold fringe.