The upper one-third of the design, heraldically known as “the chief”, is divided into two portions. On the right side is a blue field with a silver crescent surrounded by a scattering of twelve gold stars. This symbolism is emblematic of Our Blessed Lady in her title of the Immaculate Conception, patroness of the North American College, in Rome, where Bishop Mulhall completed his formation for priestly ordination. On the left is green with three gold stars. This symbolism is taken from the Mulhall family arms. In the major section across the centre is a representation of the heraldic fur ermine, which is a representation of the Hickey family arms. Through the use of these symbmols, His Excellency acknowledges the heritage that has come to him from his parents, Vernon and Maureen Mulhall.

The Bishop’s home diocese of Peterborough is represented in the lower left by the blue field with the inverted Latin cross (Saint Peter), and to the right the green field with the peace dove standing upon the gold sword represents the Diocese of Pembroke (Saint Columbkille).

Bishop Mullhall’s motto is “Fiduciam habemus apud Deum” — “We have confidence before God”, the confidence of adoption. Jesus, the Son and Word, who was with God from eternity (John 1.1) has won for us the confidence of friendship before God our creator.

This same idea was dear to the contemplatives of later generations. In their pursuit for holiness, the monks of the desert of Palestine of the 5^th adopted this same Greek notion of confidence of boldness (parresia). The monks, following the Apostle John’s writings, applied the notion to our relationship with Christ, the confidence or boldness with which we address a dear friend who loves us and who guides us daily. As the Christian makes progress in spiritual perfection through prayer and self-denial, one grows each day in confidence (fiducia).

Today, as in every age, the Risen Christ calls each of us to that same intimate friendship which listens and responds to the Beloved with confidence. It is a confidence that He has given through the mystery of His Church. May we appreciate the invitation that Christ offers and grow each day in confidence (fiducia-parresia).

Acknowledgements:
Deacon Paul Sullivan
Diocese of Providence, RI