Fr. Lennon’s Coat of Arms

In heraldry, a Coat of Arms represents an individual or a juridical entity. This tradition was especially prominent in medieval times when a Coat of Arms signified one’s family, allegiance, profession, or state of life—sometimes all at once. Today, only venerable institutions with long histories, such as nations and churches, continue this practice. Unfortunately, modern institutions have largely replaced heraldic designs with uninspired 1980s-style logos or seals. A notable exception to this trend is the insignias and flags of Japanese prefectures, which exemplify beautiful modern design.

The Use of the Coat of Arms in the Church

In the Catholic Church, Coats of Arms continue to symbolize dioceses and other jurisdictions. High-ranking clergy such as the pope, bishops, and abbots also adopt them. Although it is less common for priests, it remains an option—one that is entirely permissible.

For my priestly ordination, my good friend and co-host, Russel Padilla—who is also a gifted yet unrecognized artist—designed a Coat of Arms that visually represents my identity and vocation.

The Design and Symbolism

Here is the Coat of Arms crafted by Russel:

The escutcheon (shield) follows the Venetian style, featuring a scroll-eared top and a lobed base. This design mirrors the escutcheon of the Pauline Family’s Coat of Arms, signifying my membership in the Pious Society of Saint Paul the Apostle. The patronage of Saint Paul is further emphasized by the presence of a sword between the escutcheon and the field.

The field is divided into three sections:

Chief (Top Section): A star in an azure field represents the Blessed Virgin Mary, Stella Maris, to whom I have a deep devotion and filial loyalty.

Fess (Middle Section): This argent section features a shell, symbolizing St. Augustine of Hippo’s legendary encounter with the Christ Child on the shore while meditating on the mystery of the Trinity. The shell also represents pilgrimage, particularly the Camino de Santiago. The fess is further divided into two parts:

• On the dexter side (left from the bearer’s perspective), a wavy azure line symbolizes water, specifically the Laguna de Bay, highlighting my hometown of Taguig, Philippines.
• On the sinister side (right from the bearer’s perspective), three wavy azure lines symbolize Ultramar, reflecting my missionary identity.

Base (Bottom Section): A tongue of fire in a gules (red) field symbolizes the Holy Spirit and Sapientia (Wisdom).

The colors of the field—blue, red, and white—pay homage to the Philippine flag, underscoring my national heritage.

The Crest and Motto

The crest features a saturno or teja, a traditional black clerical hat with black tassels, signifying my state of life as a priest.

Below the escutcheon is my chosen motto: “Non nisi te, Domine”—“Nothing but you, Lord.” This phrase originates from an episode in the life of St. Thomas Aquinas. After completing his theological and philosophical masterpieces, St. Thomas placed his writings before the altar as an offering to Christ. In response, Christ crucified asked him, “You have done well, Thomas. What reward do you desire?” St. Thomas replied, “Non nisi te, Domine.”

A Personal Reflection

I am deeply grateful to my dear friend Russel for designing this Coat of Arms. It is an honor to possess one, and having it before me serves as a constant reminder of the ideal life I should strive for as a priest.

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