1) Why were the colours of green and gold chosen for the website?

These two colours represent the official heraldic insignia of the Episcopal office, which is found on the coats of arms of all Bishops.

The green corresponds to the galero (ecclesiastical hat) and tassels that make up the crest and supporters of the coat of arms of the Bishop while the gold represents the processional cross.

2) What does a Bishop’s coat of arms look like?

Coat of arms of Most Reverend Pierre Morissette, Bishop of Saint-Jérôme, CCCB President.

The coat of arms is the emblem of the Bishop, which is used on letterheads, documents and other official publications. It consists of a shield bearing symbols representing the person for whom it was conceived. Around it, elements indicate his dignity, rank, title, jurisdiction and more. A scroll or banner on which is inscribed a motto or guiding principle usually sits beneath the shield.

The shield of every Bishop is unique. The symbols featured relate to many influences in his life: these may include references to people, communities, places and events that have had an impact on his spiritual leadership.

The crest and supporters of the coat of arms are common to all Bishops. A green galero (ecclesiastical hat) sitting upon a gold processional cross form the crest. A number of tassels on either side, determined by rank, make up the supporters (Bishops have six, Archbishops 10 and Cardinals 15). On a Cardinal’s coat of arms, the galero and tassels are red.

For information on the symbolism of this coat of arms, visit: http://diocese-stjerome.qc.ca/