Three Interlocking Circles

The three interlocking circles represent the Trinity of God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit. The Triquerta is made of three loops, making a triangle representing the three parts of the trinity. The Trefoil is three equal circles intertwined to form a whole.

Therefore go and make disciples of all nations,
baptizing them in the name of the
Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.
Matthew 28:19

Symbols work because they express in a visual form, something that goes beyond the ability of a few words to express.  They invite us to greater contemplation to what can only be hinted at in a formal language.  This particular symbol of the trinity invites us to understand the nature of God at an even deeper level.  One that is especially appropriate for this season in which we prepare to welcome Christ into the world.

Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are not merely three persons of a divine entity, but express the relationship between the three persons.  This symbol catches a part of that conviction: the fluidity and motion of the lines reminds us of the fluidity and motion of the three persons of the Godhead.  Or more simply, that there is an ever constant self-giving between and among Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.  Each gives to the other fully of themselves, and in turn receives the fullness of each in return.  Christmas is not just about giving presents, it is most importantly, giving of our very self to those we most deeply care about.  And in doing so, we are walking in the very ways of God’s internal working of the trinity. One of the best ways to do this is by following Jesus’ command to go and teach; sharing the love of God so that others may hear the glad tidings. 

Janice Krause