New Coat of Arms of the Eparchy of Saskatoon
Bishop Michael has approved a new Coat of Arms for the Eparchy of Saskatoon. This heraldic achievement was designed by artist, Fr. Robert Charles Bengry O. S. G. of Calgary.
The art of heraldry is one of deep symbolism. It is rooted in Canadian and Ukrainian customs. The new Coat of Arms, as designed, follows Canadian heraldic customs while maintaining the specific elements typical for a Ukrainian Catholic eparchy. The symbolism employed speaks of who we are: a dynamic church rooted both in our Ukrainian ancestry and traditions but also in our Canadian identity. The symbolism also reminds us of the call of the Gospel to witness to the love of Christ is our time and place. Please see below a formal breakdown of the design.
Colours of Gold and Green
The shield is divided in the colours of gold and green: gold reminds us of Christ Himself, the incorruptible and priceless foundation of our faith. green is the colour of spring, life, and new beginnings. Together these colours express hope and confidence in God’s cultivating. They are also the colours of the province, which ties this particular heraldic achievement to place.
The Stars and the Lamp
At the top of the shield are five eight-pointed stars. Eight is a sacred number, rich in symbolism, recalling the eight saved in the Ark (1 Peter 3.20), and the eight Beatitudes found in Matthew’s Gospel (5.3–10), but chiefly the Resurrection and a number of perfect completion and fulfilment. Five have been chosen because this number is also rich with meaning: the Pentateuch, and the five wounds of Christ among them. More particularly, the five stars in this heraldic achievement recall the five wise virgins of the Gospel who kept their lamps ready to meet the Bridegroom (Matthew 25). This is made all-the-more obvious with the burning oil lamp placed beneath them. The lamp is a reminder that the Eparchy must be a light set on a stand, not hidden (Mark 4.21), and that all Christians are called to keep their lamps burning in readiness for the Lord (Luke 12.35). The lamp’s flame symbolizes Christ, the true light who shines in the darkness, and whom the darkness cannot overcome (John 1.5). The flame has three peaks pointing to the Holy Trinity.
The Dove
The lower part of the shield bears a dove, a symbol of the Holy Spirit who inspires, protects, and guides the Eparchy, the Church and all Christians. The dove is shown in an uplifting style, reflecting hope and the Spirit’s life-giving presence in our communities.
