Pope Leo XIV's new coat of arms: A blend of faith and tradition
The coat of arms of Pope Leo XIV incorporates elements related to Mary and the Augustinian order. Father Antonio Pompili, Vice President of the Italian Institute of Heraldry and Genealogy, explained in a statement issued by the Holy See that these symbols hold profound meaning.
What do you need to know?
- The coat of arms of Pope Leo XIV includes elements connected to Mary and the Augustinian order.
- The Vatican emphasizes the symbolism of the coat of arms; for instance, the burning heart pierced by an arrow alludes to St. Augustine.
- The motto of the coat of arms, "In Illo uno unum," highlights the unity of Christians in Christ.
A few days ago, the Vatican presented the coat of arms that will accompany the pontificate of Pope Leo XIV.
The coat of arms is a shield divided into two parts. In the upper part, on a blue background, there is a white lily. The lower part of the coat of arms depicts a closed book with a heart pierced by an arrow. Beneath it lies the motto: "In Illo uno unum".
What is the significance of the coat of arms? This is explained by Father Antonio Pompili, Vice President of the Italian Institute of Heraldry and Genealogy, as quoted by Vatican News.
The symbolism of the Pope's coat of arms: The Vatican explains the deep significance
According to him, the papal coat of arms contains numerous symbols of profound significance. He notes that the blue in the first field of the coat of arms symbolizes heaven and is associated with Mary. On this background is the iconic symbol of the Virgin Mary, the lily, known as "flos florum"—the flower of flowers.
In the second field of the coat of arms, there is a burning heart pierced by an arrow, which symbolizes the Augustinian order. This sign refers to the words of St. Augustine from "Confessions": his heart was pierced by the love of God.
Augustinian symbols, present in the coat of arms since the 16th century, often appear alongside a book that symbolizes the Word of God, capable of transforming the heart of humanity, as was the case with St. Augustine. The book also reminds us of the significant theological works that the Doctor of Grace left to the Church and humanity.
The white colour in the papal coat of arms, shown in an ivory shade, is common in monastic coats of arms and symbolizes holiness and purity.
Beneath the shield of the coat of arms is the motto "In Illo uno unum". St. Augustine, in his Commentary on Psalm 127, explained that although Christians are numerous, in Christ they are united.
