A new pendant - a modified version of the Young Women logo introduced last October - that can be worn as a necklace or charm on a bracelet has been issued by the Young Women organization.
Now available through Church Distribution, the pendant does not replace the Young Womanhood medallion, nor is it intended to be used as an "award" presentation.The pendant is patterned after the official logo introduced in the Oct. 18, 1987, Young Women satellite fireside. The logo features an artistic rendering of a torch with the image of a girl's face and hair incorporated in a rising flame. Surrounding the torch are the words "Stand for Truth and Righteousness - Young Women."
The logo was designed by McRay Magleby, an award-winning designer of international renown. The Young Women presidency gave him some guidelines for creating the logo: It was to be a symbol that is youthful, feminine, universal and timeless.
In order to make the pendant universal, the words were omitted from it. The front of the pendant is cloisonne (enameled), with the face and torch highlighted against a white background. The edges and back are gold-plated.
Elaine L. Jack, second counselor in the Young Women general presidency, said: "The logo was designed for young women and their leaders to remind them to stand for truth and righteousness, and to hold up the light of Christ. The pendant may be worn by all those who are committed to standing for truth and righteousness. A tie tack or lapel pin is being designed for priesthood leaders.
"There is a lot of symbolism represented in a torch. We've just seen the Winter Olympics, in which the torch was carried to the games. The flame of that torch comes from an original source in Greece at the opening of Olympic games.
"We like to think that our light comes from the pure source - the light of Christ."
Jayne B. Malan, first counselor in the Young Women general presidency, said: "It's important to have a tangible reminder. A symbol is a reminder of something greater than the object itself.
"On this pendant, the torch is representative of action. It must be held; it cannot be laid down."
Young Women General President Ardeth G. Kapp, added: "We want young women to gain an identity with the Church. They wear pins and emblems to represent organizations from school or from the world. We want them to also gain a sense of what it means to be a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. We're anxious to have something that would help them gain that identity."
Many young women may already have chains on which to wear the pendants. However, the pendants may be worn on ribbons.
"It would be very appropriate for girls to wear their pendants on ribbons that are the colors of the Young Women values," said Sister Kapp. "I also know some girls who are embroidering fabric 'ropes' on which to wear their pendants."
Pendants may be ordered through Church Distribution for $1.50 each, (without chain). The stock number is PPYW1343.