Meaning behind CYM Logo

The young woman bowing reverently is Mary. We have depicted her in a caricature style to reveal her young age. Mary, when visited by the angel was a teenager, and in this logo she represents all teenagers who are in that wonderful stage of adolescence that is filled with mystery, wonder and excitement. Mary’s head is crowned with twelve stars representing the twelve tribes of Israel, and also the twelve apostles and her unique role as the queen mother and queen of heaven. Mary’s royal motherhood reveals our royalty as son’s and daughters of God—for we too are Kings and Queens of the Most High King Jesus Christ. Mary is surrounded by the Holy Spirit depicted by the dove. He is wrapping Himself around her, pouring new life within her. This new life is going to transform her, not just physically, but very much so spiritually. When teenagers like Mary open themselves up to the power of the Holy Spirit life can never be the same. They are transformed and the new life within, Christ, changes these teenagers into a “new creation.” Mary’s arm is placed around her belly in recognition of this new life she has been given and her mandate to nurture it and protect it. It is a reminder to all our young people of the necessity to nurture and defend the faith that has been given to them.

The wave like line underneath Mary represents the Rappahannock River that is at the doorstep of St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. It again associates Mother Mary to our young people here at home and shows that they too here in Fredericksburg, have the capacity to reach holiness by the grace of God.

It is my hope that all young people who gaze upon this image will see not only the beauty of our heavenly mother, but also themselves and the beauty that lies within them and the incredible gift that they are to our world and our Church.

Leo Chavarria

Director of Youth Ministry