St. Barnabas is privileged to have a unique Coat of Arms, granted by the heraldic authority of the Government of Canada.  A Coat of arms represents a person or group or institution.  In our case, it is an icon of our parish life and ministry.  Click on to the various parts, and you will find an explanation of the various aspects of this distinctive emblem.



The cross of St. George, a red cross on a white background signifies that great soldier and martyr George who died for Christ, and who is also the patron saint of the English people.   It also draws a link to the main parish of St. George that oversaw the founding of the Mission of St. Barnabas in 1870.

 

The presence of the Gospel Book, the Good News of God in Christ, reminds us to live our own lives in accordance with the life of Jesus.  The Word of God is central to the life and vitality of the Church.



In the very centre, surrounded by the rays of the sun, is the sacred host, sign of the Eucharist.  The monogram "IHS," is an ancient symbol for the name of Jesus.  Jesus is at the centre of parish life, both in his Word and in his Holy Sacrament.



Three black pellets (no, they are not hockey pucks) represent the stones used in the martyrdom of St. Barnabas, who by tradition, died defending the Christian faith on his home island of Cyprus.



At the bottom of the shield are the words "Sursum Corda", ancient and familiar words from the Liturgy meaning "Lift up your hearts".  We lift up our hearts in the worship of God and in the service of others.  On either side of the motto are lilies, signs of the Blessed Virgin Mary and of the Resurrection.