The Christian flag originated in the United States in the late 19th century. It is generally credited to Charles C. Overton, a Methodist Sunday school superintendent in New York, who conceived the idea after seeing a Christian flag displayed at a Sunday school rally.
The flag was first presented publicly around 1897 at Brighton Chapel in Coney Island, New York. Overton later worked with Ralph Diffendorfer, a Methodist missionary and leader, to develop and promote the design.
The flag features a white field, representing purity and peace, with a blue canton containing a red cross. The red cross represents the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, while the blue is commonly associated with faithfulness or the heavenly realm.
During the early 20th century, the Christian flag became increasingly popular among Sunday schools, churches, Christian organizations, and youth groups. It is now used by many Christian denominations and organizations, particularly in the United States.
Today, Christian flags are commonly displayed in churches, Sunday schools, Christian schools, homes, and religious events as a symbol of Christian faith and identity.