Our Lady Flight Into Egypt ~ Mary is honoured as the Chief Patron of our Diocese of Port Elizabeth. In accordance with the official liturgical Pastoral Guide it is therefore elevated to a solemnity (big feast) for the local church and celebrated on the Sunday that occurs on 4th February or between the 4th and 10th February each year.
history of the diocese
BISHOP MICHAEL'S SEAL AND MOTTO
Bishop Michael’s Seal is divided horizontally in two parts; the lower is green - symbolic of the land and growth, and the upper is blue - symbolic of the sky and peace. In the centre is a Diaz Cross - the first Catholic symbol planted on this part of Africa. The upper left-hand quarter of the shield has a golden harp representative of the joyful Faith of the Irish Community who contributed so much to the diocese, and a reminder of the Bishop’s own Faith origins. In the upper right-hand quarter is a golden bishop’s staff, recalling his role as Shepherd; also the open book of the Word of God underlining his prophetic office.
In the green field are four sheep on the move - representative of the pilgrim Church which is his flock. The motto of the Bishop is Christ’s injunction to Peter “FEED MY SHEEP”. It is reflected in the Seal in Latin and the three main languages of the diocese, on the red stole of priesthood which forms the surround for the whole seal. Red is the colour of courage and love.
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