The Coat of Arms of the Diocese
The Coat of Arms of the Diocese is comprised of heraldic symbols and colours
which identify us.
There are three colours Red, White and Blue to represent the colours of the Australian flag.
There is a chevron (in white) which represents military service and on the chevron are three swords to represent the three arms of the Australian Defence Force - the Army, the Navy and the Air Force. Note that the swords are point down to indicate a defensive focus.
On the Red section (the top one) is a 'fleur de lies' - the heraldic symbol for Our Lady - under the title Help of Christians she is the principal patron of the Diocese.
On the Blue field (the bottom section) is a Chaplain's cross surrounded by the stars of the Southern Cross - clearly identifies us as Aussie.
At the back of the shield is the Processional Cross of a Bishop -indicating we have a Bishop as Chief Shepherd.
Chaplain Insignia's
Chaplains Insignia and Badges have been inherited from those of the British Armed Forces with only minor modifications.
Navy Chaplains Insignia
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A silver cross "patonce" seeded with a fouled anchor in gold superimposed. The chaplains insignia is used on both uniform and ecclesiastical vestments and accoutrements. (Navy Chaplains don't wear rank insignia). |
Army Chaplains Badge
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The major feature is the silver Maltese Cross - used by the Crusaders and formed by placing four spear heads together so that the points meet in the centre. The motto is "In this sign conquer" and is attributed to a vision received by one of the early Christian Emperors. The whole badge has a wreath as a background - recalling the memorial element of a Chaplains work. The wreath changes between countries - e.g., in the British Army the wreath is oak; in Canada the wreath is maple; in New Zealand the wreath is fern and tea tree. In Australia the wreath is Eucalyptus and Wattle. |
Air Force Chaplains Badge
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The Badge of the Chaplains in the Air Force is a dark blue cross patee supported by gilt wings. |