Unveiling the Symbols of Faith: Webinar Explores Heraldry in the Catholic Church
Ever wondered why the coat of arms of the Archbishop of Malta features a red galley with three masts, or why the Bishop of Gozo’s bears a golden key? The intricate world of heraldry, the language of coats of arms, is about to be explored in a fascinating webinar hosted by the Archdiocese of Malta.
Unveiling the Symbols of Faith
The webinar, titled ‘Heraldry in the Catholic Church: An Introduction’, promises to shed light on the rich history and symbolism behind the coats of arms that adorn the churches and cathedrals of Malta. Organised by the Archdiocese’s Office of Cultural Heritage, the event is set to look the fascinating world of heraldry, a subject that often goes unnoticed yet is deeply rooted in the island’s religious history.
From Rome to Mdina
Led by Dr. Mario Buhagiar, a renowned expert in heraldry and a member of the Heraldry Society of Malta, the webinar will explore the origins and evolution of ecclesiastical heraldry. From the Vatican’s complex system of heraldic symbols to the unique coats of arms that adorn the churches of Mdina and Rabat, participants will gain a deeper understanding of the stories these symbols tell.
Dr. Buhagiar will also discuss the role of heraldry in the Catholic Church, explaining how coats of arms have been used to represent not just individuals, but also institutions and concepts of faith. He will also touch upon the rules and regulations that govern the creation and use of ecclesiastical heraldry, offering insights into the process of designing and approving a coat of arms.
Join the Conversation
The webinar, which is open to the public, will be held on Zoom on the 25th of October at 7 pm. It promises to be an enlightening evening, offering a unique perspective on the art and history of Malta’s Catholic heritage. Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of art, or simply curious about the symbols that surround us, this webinar is not to be missed.
To register, visit the Archdiocese of Malta’s website (archdioceseofmaltacatholic.org) and follow the link to the webinar. The event is free of charge, but registration is required.
