Cardinal Angel Fernandez's Coat of Arms

Cardinal Angel Fernandez’s Coat of Arms

(ANS – Rome – Sept. 30, 2023) – The coat of arms and motto of Cardinal Angel Fernandez Artime, rector major of the Salesians, were unveiled on the occasion of his creation as cardinal.

Heraldry is a complex and specialized language consisting of a myriad of figures. The coat of arms for a cardinal is a special mark, graphic expression, synthesis, and message of his ministry.

In the case of the coat of arms of Cardinal Fernandez, the emblazonment – heraldic description – does not currently carry the shield attached to a styli cross made of gold, placed on a pole, because the Rector Major is not a bishop.

Inside the hooded shield, in the 1st section the characteristic figure of Jesus the Good Shepherd, found in the Catacombs of St. Callistus in Rome stands out – these Catacombs are entrusted to the care of the Salesians; in the 2d section, at the top left, the monogram “MA,” references to Mary Help of Christians (Maria Ausiliatrice), surmounted by a crown of the same color; in the 3d, the anchor with 2 hooks, silver, strung in red. The shield is stamped with a hat with beads and red tassels, a sign of a cardinal’s dignity. 30 tassels are arranged 15 per part, in 5 orders of 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.

Under the shield, in the silver list, the motto in black capital letters: “SUFFICIT TIBI GRATIA MEA” (My grace is enough for you).

As is noted in more detail in the explanation of the emblazonment of the coat of arms of the new cardinal, the figure of the Good Shepherd in the center of the shield expresses the centrality of the figure of Christ, “the true shepherd who leads his people.”

The monogram of Mary Help of Christians recalls the mother to whom Don Bosco entrusted the Congregation and whom he always recommended we pray to.

Finally, the anchor reminds us that Cardinal Ferandez is the son of a fisherman from seas around Spain. It therefore recalls his origins; but at the same time, the anchor is also found in the coat of arms of the Congregation and recalls that Don Bosco himself wanted it as a symbol of the theological virtue of hope.

The episcopal motto, taken from St. Paul (2 Cor 12: 9), expresses trust in Divine Providence.