The Mandorla is an ancient symbol of two circles coming together, overlapping one another to form an almond shape in the middle.  Mandorla is the Italian word for almond. The Mandorla is also known as the "Vesica Piscis" symbolizing the interactions and interdependence of opposing worlds and forces. Although the symbol has its origins before the Christian era, the early Christians used the symbol as a method to describe the coming together of heaven and earth,divine and human.  The United Church Crest is in the shape of a mandorla.