Episcopal Ordination
Learn more about this significant occasion where Msgr. Albert Bahhuth, Father Matthew Elshoff, OFM. Cap., Father Brian Nunes and Father Slawomir Szkredka, will become auxiliary bishops of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles.
Coat of Arms date back all the way to the 11th century. They were first used on the battlefield so warriors could identify their comrades. In the Catholic Church, when a bishop is appointed to lead an archdiocese, he receives his own Coat of Arms as he begins his life of service. These are more formally known as the “episcopal heraldic achievement”. Each bishop has a personal coat of arms designed for them by a professional heraldic designer. Each one is different, but they all have a few key elements in common.
First, every Coat of Arms bears a Bishop’s episcopal motto, along with various other symbols that have significance to him personally, as well as the diocese in which he serves.
These elements are just a few of the many details that go into these intricate episcopal designs. There are so many unique and intricate details that go into each Coat of Arms, and it is an important part of the bishop’s launch into his episcopal ministry.
Coat of Arms are not only beautiful expressions of faith, but they are also formally used on documents, letterheads, and other items pertaining to each particular bishop.