Malta’s Bishops: A Webinar on Their Coats of Arms

Imagine this: a 15th-century coat of arms, intricately designed, its symbols telling a story of lineage, power, and faith. Now, picture it not on a grand knight’s shield, but on the screen of your laptop, as you attend a webinar from the comfort of your home in Malta. This was the scene last Thursday, as the Archdiocese of Malta hosted a webinar on heraldry in the Catholic Church.

Unveiling the Coats of Arms

The webinar, led by Dr. Mario Buhagiar, a heraldry expert and archivist at the Inquisitor’s Palace in Birgu, delved into the rich history and symbolism behind the coats of arms of Maltese bishops and archbishops. From the double-headed eagle of the Knights of Malta to the more recent designs of our local bishops, each coat of arms was a window into a piece of Maltese ecclesiastical history.

Heraldry in the 21st Century

But this wasn’t just a history lesson. The webinar also explored the role of heraldry in the modern Church. digital communication, how does one display a coat of arms? Dr. Buhagiar showed us that even in the 21st century, these ancient symbols continue to hold relevance, now appearing on websites, social media profiles, and even email signatures.

For instance, Archbishop Charles Scicluna’s coat of arms, featuring a Maltese cross and the words “Veritas in Caritate” (Truth in Charity), can be seen on the Archdiocese’s website. It’s a reminder of the enduring power of these symbols, even in the digital age.

Getting Involved

If you missed the webinar, don’t worry. The Archdiocese plans to host more events like this in the future. Keep an eye on their events page for updates. And who knows? You might just find yourself learning about the fascinating world of heraldry from the comfort of your home in Malta.