- 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.
Michael Allan Bird
Hamilton, Ontario
Grant of Arms
August 15, 2008
Vol. V, p. 330
Click on each image to enlarge. The blazon and symbolism for each element will accompany the enlarged image.
Blazon
Arms
Gules a pale wavy Azure fimbriated and between two birds statant close respectant Argent;
Motto
WHAT DOES THE LORD REQUIRE;
Symbolism
Arms
The birds refer to Bishop Bird’s name, and the blue and white stripe alludes to the falling water of Niagara Falls, a feature also represented on the arms of the Diocese of Niagara. The red, white and blue colours are prominent in the flag of Newfoundland, where Bishop Bird was ordained.
Motto
This is taken from the Old Testament book of the prophet Micah, chapter 6, verse 8: “and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God”.
Background
Canada Gazette Information
The announcement of the Letters Patent was made on November 22, 2008, in Volume 142, page 2985 of the Canada Gazette.
Artist Information
Creator(s)
Original concept of Ralph Spence, Albion Herald Extraordinary, assisted by the heralds of the Canadian Heraldic Authority.
Painter
Debra MacGarvie
Calligrapher
Shirley Mangione
Recipient Information
Individual