The Eagle

The time between Ascension Day and Pentecost is one of transition from Easter to the missional urging of the Holy Spirit. The eagle is an ancient symbol of Christ’s Ascension and was one of four widely used symbols representing the four chief events in the life of Christ. It was believed that the eagle could fly as high as possible and look into the sun and then fly swiftly to the earth where it would plunge into a fountain of water and emerge renewed. This became a symbol of Our Lord’s Ascension into heaven and his victory over the cross. Eagles also represent Christians baptized into Christ and this gift of grace through baptism brings the promise of Christ’s return to earth in glory. For this reason the eagle is often depicted on baptismal fonts.