Diocesan Coat of Arms
The Coat of Arms of the Diocese of Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island is believed to have been designed around 1788 by Charles Inglis, the first Bishop of Nova Scotia. The first known use of the coat of arms was at St. Paul's Chapel in New York. Over the years, several different versions were used before the current design was officially adopted in 1957.
Each part of the coat of arms has a special meaning:
- St. Andrew's Cross at the top reflects the design of the Nova Scotia flag.
- The key and the bishop's staff (called a crosier) represent the ministry and leadership of the Bishop.
- The three oak trees with acorns represent the three counties of Prince Edward Island.
- The lamb carrying the flag of St. George represents Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, and symbolizes Christ's victory over death.