Many denominations have their own specific symbols or customs of memorialization which are in current use. This section describes these customs for a number of major religions and denominations. These are not intended as hard and fast rules; local church officials should be contacted for further information.

BAPTIST
There are many divisions of the Baptist church in the United States, with no symbols common to all. The most familiar Baptist symbols is that of the Southern Baptist Convention, which features the world and an open Bible joined by a cross.

MORMON
The Mormon faith is very genealogy oriented. For this reason, many will want the month and day of their birth and death dates included on their monument in addition to the year. Married women also will want to include their maiden names.

There is no religious symbol specific to the Mormon faith, but some will want the letters 'LDS' used to represent the Church of Latter-Day Saints.

LUTHERAN
There are four diverse branches of Lutheranism. The symbol common to all four is the coat of arms of Martin Luther.

PRESBYTERIAN
Many forms of the Presbyterian church exist throughout North America. Because the denomination originated in Scotland, the Celtic Cross is sometimes used as an unofficial symbol of the faith.

CATHOLIC
The Roman Catholic church has an extensive system of cemeteries throughout North America. Catholic guidelines on symbolism and memorialization are quite strict. It may be desirable for memorial counselors to consult the local Catholic cemeterian before proceeding with a design.

Various forms of the cross are most common on Catholic memorials. If the cross is used, it must be the most prominent design element on the memorial. If the cross is not used, some other form of religious symbolism must be used.

Of the other religious symbols already presented, the ship, butterfly, and fleur-de-lis are used widely. The ship, however, is more fitting as a symbol for the diocese than for the church as a whole. The butterfly and fleur-de-lis cannot be used alone; both require an appropriate epitaph to give the symbols a religious significance.

Epitaphs on Catholic memorials may come from one of two sources - the Scriptures and the church's prayer books. No other epitaphs, either religious or secular in nature are permitted. The selected epitaph need not be cited. If the family requests the epitaph in Latin, it is wise to check the grammatical accuracy of the chosen phrase. Because Latin is no longer in popular use, favorite phrases may be passed down and remembered incorrectly; checking for accuracy may save the family a great deal of embarrassment.

Catholic cemeteries also have restrictions on the shapes of monuments. Those with a predominately secular meaning, such as the double heart, generally are not permitted.

UNITED METHODIST
The cross with flame is the national symbol of the United Methodist Church. It is a relatively new symbol, but it may occasionally be requested for use on a monument.

UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST
For Members of the United Church of Christ, the cross with crown is used to symbolize the promise of eternal life.