Symbolism of the Shell

I picked up this shell at church on Sunday.

Last Sunday at church, we renewed our vows of baptism. The pastor told us that the seashell is the Christian symbol for baptism and at the end of the service, invited us all up to get a shell and dip our fingers in the baptismal font and pray at the altar.

It really was a beautiful service and I loved the symbolism, but I had never heard about the shell being a Christian symbol before even though I’ve been a lifelong  church goer. Being a curious sort, I had to investigate.

Since I just love to watch for God in the everyday, I was delighted at what I found. Turns out, that the shell was used in the very first centuries of the Christian church to assist in the sacrament of baptism. We know this because there are paintings of baptism depicted on the walls of catacombs where early Christians worshiped.

No one knows exactly why shells were used, but the thought is probably for practical reasons. In many places, there wasn’t enough water to completely submerge the candidate; so they would wade out and have water poured over their heads. They would want to use as much water as possible. (It wasn’t like they could pick up a bucket at the local Target). A shell could hold more water than a hand.

The shell comes from the ocean. Jesus’ first disciples were called by the seashore. When we are baptized, we are supposed to be disciples for Christ, spreading the word and the love. The shell can remind us of the first disciples as well as our own calling to discipleship.

There are shells depicted in art in many churches all over the world, from embroidery to stained glass. They are sometimes shown with three drops of water, symbolizing the trinity.

So, the next time you have the pleasure of walking on the beach, be sure to pick up a shell and be reminded not only of the beauty and wonder of nature, but also of the infinite grace of God. Be reminded of the privilege of baptism and the love of Christ. Be at peace and know God loves you and of course, pass it on!

Have an awesome day! 🙂

Wendy