Christian Flag: 4 Things You Didn't Know About Its Etiquette

James Russell Pollock, preacher and Yale graduate, developed the Christian Flag Code in 1938 during World War II. After placing the Christian flag and the American flag opposite each other in his sanctuary, Pollock faced opposition from his congregation, who questioned his patriotic commitment.

In response, Pollock wrote the Christian Flag Code, which outlines the proper positioning and regulatory methods of the Christian flag.

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The following are etiquette instructions on the proper use of the Christian flag, many of which have their origins in Pollock's Christian Flag Code.

1. In the Sanctuary

The Christian Flag and the other flags can be at the same level either side-by-side or on opposite sides of the sanctuary. If side-by-side, the Christian flag is always to the right of the other flags. While the Christian flag must dip to the cross and altar, it may never dip to other flags.

If on floor level, the Christian flag is placed to the front right of the congregation. If inside the communion railing, the flag is placed to the right of the altar.


2. When Flying Next to the American Flag

The Christian flag may only fly above the American flag during church services. Otherwise, the United States Flag Code dictates that the Christian flag must fly below the American flag, although they may be on the same pole. However, many Christians take issue with this, arguing that the Christian flag should never be made inferior to any other flag.

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3. At Sea

Ships of the U.S. Navy and the British Royal Navy may fly the Christian flag above their country's flag during church services conducted by a Naval chaplain for Navy personnel, according to U.S. Flag. The neutrality implication of the Christian flag signifies that the ship, when flying the flag, is considered non-combatant.

4. In Processionals

If the Christian cross is carried in a processional, the flag must come after it. In a single-column processional, the Christian flag must come before all other flags. In a double-column format, the Christian flag must be at the head of the rightmost column.

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