What is an Episcopal Motto

What is an episcopal motto?

In Church heraldry, a bishop’s personal episcopal motto is a short phrase unique to each bishop that encapsulates his personal faith, and is an integral part of his Coat of Arms.

Every Coat of Arms depicts a bishop’s episcopal motto at the bottom, usually written on a scroll, or banderole.

Episcopal mottos can be written in English, Latin, or the bishop’s native language. They are often grounded in Sacred Scripture or taken from a prominent prayer, litany, or saint quote that is important to him.

It is intended to represent each bishop’s spirituality and theologically-based philosophy of life. It is something they get to choose themselves to best communicate their testimony of faith to the flock and choosing one is an important milestone as they step into such a significant role of leadership in the Church.

Above all, the episcopal motto serves as a guiding light, inspiring the bishops in their pastoral duties and reminding them of their commitment to God’s people.

Get to Know the Mottos of our #newLABishops

Bishop Bahhuth selected “Go Make Disciples” which are words taken from the Great Commission of Christ, found in Matthew 28:19: “Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”

Bishop Nunes selected the Latin words: “In Mundum Universum Predicate Evangelium” which is taken from the book of Mark and means “Preach the Gospel to the whole world.” (Mark 16:15)

Bishop Szkredka selected “Quodcumque Dexerit Facite” which is found in the Gospel of John where we hear the final recorded words of the Blessed Virgin Mary at the wedding feast at Cana: “Do whatever He tells you.” (John 2:5)

Bishop Elshoff has chosen the words: “Caritas Christi Urget Nos” which are taken from 2 Corinthians 5:14, translating as “the love of Christ compels us.”