Its oval shape is derived from the outline of a fish, a symbol of identity by early Christians. The initials of the words "Jesus Christ, Son of God, Saviour" spell the Greek word (ichthus) for fish. [Rotate the crest 90° to better see the outline of a fish.)

In the four quarters of the crest are symbols, three of which are particularly associated with the three uniting denominations (1925) — Congregational, Methodist, and Presbyterian.

The open Bible represents the Congregational Churches with their emphasis upon God's truth that makes people free.

The Dove is emblematic of the Holy Spirit (Mark 1:10) Whose transforming power has been a distinctive mark of Methodism. Here our heritage is one of evangelical zeal, concern for human redemption, warmth of Christian fellowship, the testimony of spiritual experience, and the ministry of sacred song. As Rev. John Wesley said "About a quarter before nine, while [a speaker] was describing the change which God works in the heart through faith in Christ, I felt my heart strangely warmed. I felt I did trust in Christ, Christ alone for salvation, and an assurance was given me that he had taken away my sin, even mine, and had saved me from the law of sin and death.".

The Burning Bush is the symbol of Presbyterianism. It refers to the bush that burned and was not consumed (Exodus 3:2), and symbolizes the indestructibility of God's Church. From Presbyterianism we have received a heritage of high regard for the dignity in worship, the education of all people, the authority of Scripture, and the Church as the Body of Christ.

The symbols Alpha and Omega in the lower quarter are the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet. They symbolize the Eternal Living God, in the fullness of creation (Revelation 1:8) and consummation.

The Latin words ut omnes unum sint that surround the symbols on the crest mean That all may be one and are taken from St John 17:21. We are "one in Christ".