4.2.2 Wordmark

If the wordmark inside the symbol is not reasonably legible because of size restrictions, use the Church wordmark alone instead of the symbol. Do not contain the wordmark in the cornerstone shape if it is not part of the symbol. Do not use the Christus arch without the cornerstone unless it is an approved exception (see 4.2.1.7).

The wordmark (formerly called the logotype) has been developed to emphasize the central position of the Savior in Church theology and to reflect the dignity of His Church. The name Jesus Christ is dominant regardless of the language used. The wordmark also provides easy readability and recognition because of the arrangement, style, and character weight of the type.

Like the symbol, the wordmark is to be used only on items approved for publication by the VIO.

Wordmark Usage

When space and size parameters allow, prioritize use of the symbol over use of the wordmark.

In general, the Church wordmark is not used on materials produced by local units or in any personal, commercial, or promotional way. Using the Church wordmark without approval from the VIO may lead to misrepresentation of the Church and may cause legal problems.

For additional information about proper use of the Church wordmark and name, please refer to General Handbook: Serving in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 38.8.8.

Copyright Usage

All official Church products should include both the Church symbol (or wordmark, in certain instances) and an approved copyright notice. Contact the VIO for approved copyright notice formats.

Name Usage

The written name of the Church is not a substitute for the Church wordmark. Please refer to 4.2.3 to see appropriate applications of the Church name, including visual guidelines.

General Guidelines

When using the wordmark, keep these principles in mind:

• Visual Presentation: Maintain the integrity of the wordmark, including its typeface, illustration, visual weight, and arrangement (see 4.2.1.1).
• Ease of Identification: Help people identify the Church by using the wordmark at a proper size and with sufficient contrast (see 4.2.2.2–4.2.2.4).
• Consistency: Protect the worldwide legal recognition of the Church name and wordmark.

Obtaining Wordmark Files (see 4.5)

Only use wordmark files that are approved by the VIO. Do not attempt to recreate the wordmark on your own.

Wordmark files in a variety of formats may be downloaded from Church asset management systems (see 4.5). When downloading the files, if a challenge form appears, provide the purpose for using the logo.

Wordmark files may be updated from time to time. Access files from Church asset management systems (see 4.5) for each use to ensure you have the most recent version. Link each wordmark file to its source destination so that automatic updates can be applied. Do not save the Church wordmark as an independent file that may be used at will.

If you have trouble accessing these files, please contact the VIO.

Language Variations

The wordmark has been translated into over 110 languages; additional language variations continue to be added. Each version has been designed to maintain the same visual weight and footprint.

When designing a product that will be adapted for multiple languages, use all wordmark versions at the same percentage of the original size. See 4.4 for more samples.

A language name and code are assigned for each version of the Church wordmark, which will help in finding the correct files from assigned asset management systems (see 4.5).

There are over 110 wordmarks in languages. Additional language variations will be provided as files are created.

The entire set of approved wordmarks in languages may be accessed using Church asset management systems (see 4.5).

When used alone, the wordmark should not be enclosed in the cornerstone or any other outline.

The Church wordmark must always be surrounded by a minimum amount of clear space. This maintains the wordmark’s visual integrity. It should never be crowded by other elements, such as text, titles, icons, illustrations, or photographs.

The wordmark should have a minimum amount (x) of clear space on all sides. To calculate “x,” measure from the top of the large letters, “Jesus Christ,” to the top of the first small line below (this includes the spacing between lines).

Please note the “x” measurement varies from language to language. Measure the “x” height based on the language version that will be used.

Placement in an Enclosed Area

When the wordmark is used in an enclosed area, place it slightly above center so the wordmark feels optically weighted. Approximately 47 percent of the enclosed space should be above the midline of the wordmark and 53 percent below the midline. This provides proper weight and balance.

The Church wordmark may be reproduced in black or an approved color from the color palette (see 4.2.5). Choose colors that give sufficient contrast (often colors 25 and higher) to the wordmark and its background. Use discretion when selecting colors to fit the audience and communication purpose. Keep in mind the sacred nature of the Savior and the name of His Church.

Backgrounds

The wordmark may be placed over a subtle pattern. However, the pattern should not compete with the wordmark. Keep in mind the sacred nature of the Savior and the name of His Church.

Never use more than one color or value, because this disrupts the readability and integrity of the wordmark.

Minimum Contrast

Always maintain at least a 50 percent value difference in color or luminance between the wordmark and its background.

When reversing the wordmark from a color background, use only the file designed for this purpose. The wordmark may be used in an approved color (see 4.2.5) that provides sufficient contrast with the background.

Backgrounds

Always use background patterns, textures, or images that maintain the readability and integrity of the wordmark. Keep in mind the sacred nature of the Savior and the name of His Church.

Minimum Contrast

Always reverse the wordmark from a color, pattern, or image with sufficient contrast. There must be at least a 50 percent value difference in color or luminance between the wordmark and its background.

Shapes

When the wordmark is used in an enclosed space, the surrounding area must be large enough to be perceived as a general layout area, not a recognizable shape or design.

Legibility

Do not interfere with the recognition and readability of the wordmark.

Do not intersect the wordmark with graphics, patterns, or backgrounds with contrasting colors or tones. Do not use the wordmark in a repeating pattern. Keep in mind the sacred nature of the Savior and the name of His Church.