- The Governor General of Canada
The contents of this Register are intended for research purposes only. The heraldic emblems found in the Register may not be reproduced in any form or in any media without the written consent of the Canadian Heraldic Authority and/or the recipient.
The Synod of the Diocese of New Westminster
Vancouver, British Columbia
Grant of a Badge
May 15, 2007
Vol. V, p. 144
Click on each image to enlarge. The blazon and symbolism for each element will accompany the enlarged image.
Blazon
Badge
On a hurt a cross patonce between two martlets in chief the wings and tail of each forming a maple leaf Or and surmounting in base a barrulet wavy Argent;
Symbolism
Badge
The birds, or martlets, are taken from the diocesan arms, and are shown here with their tails in a maple leaf shape to emphasize the Canadian identity of the diocese. The martlets can also be seen as messengers from heaven. Blue and gold are borrowed from the arms of the Diocese, the blue representing the heavens, the rivers and the sea, and the gold referring to Christ as the Light of the World. The cross patonce, found in the diocesan arms, is a reference to the coat of arms of Westminster Abbey and dramatizes the reality that this is the badge of a Christian community. The wavy white stripe symbolizes the water of the rivers and the sea that are such an important feature of the diocesan landscape, as well as the water of baptism and of life. Finally, the circular shape refers to the circle of life and the traditions of the First Peoples, who were among the Diocese’s founding members.
Background
Canada Gazette Information
The announcement of the Letters Patent was made on October 6, 2007, in Volume 141, page 2826 of the Canada Gazette.
Artist Information
Creator(s)
Original concept of Robert D. Watt, Chief Herald of Canada, assisted by the heralds of the Canadian Heraldic Authority.
Painter
Barbara Saville
Calligrapher
Shirley Mangione
Recipient Information
Civil Institution
National, Regional, Diocesan, Administrative