Pope Leo xiv's coat of arms: Unity through Augustinian lens
Pope Leo XIV has unveiled his coat of arms and motto, both of which reflect his spiritual values and mission. The coat of arms combines symbols of purity and conversion, while the motto emphasises the unity of Christians.
Pope Leo XIV's coat of arms features a shield divided into two parts, each carrying deep symbolic meaning. In the upper part, set against a blue background, is a white lily symbolising purity and the Virgin Mary. The lower part of the coat of arms depicts a closed book with a heart pierced by an arrow, a reference to the conversion of St Augustine. St Augustine captured his experience with the words: "Vulnerasti cor meum verbo tuo" – "You have pierced my heart with your word".
Leo XIV made a pivotal decision: reference to St Augustine
Leo XIV's motto, "In Illo uno unum," conveys that despite diversity, Christians are united in Christ. These words are taken from a homily by St Augustine, who, in his Commentary on Psalm 127, emphasised the significance of unity within the Church.
Archbishop Prevost, in an interview with Tiziana Campisi on 10th July 2023, explained that unity and communion are key elements of the Augustinian Order's charism. He highlighted that promoting communion in the Church is fundamental, and that unity, participation, and mission are the three key words of the Synod.
As an Augustinian, Leo XIV underscores these values in his ministry.
