The congregation’s coat of arms has changed significantly over the centuries. Its current design can be divided into three fields, which symbolize the spirituality and activities of our order. In the upper field, a pelican is depicted feeding its chicks with the blood of its own heart—a symbol of self-sacrificing Christian love. The two shovels in the lower left field evoke the memory of the Alexian Brothers’ former work: burying the dead in times of adversity. The flying raven, meanwhile, symbolizes feeding those suffering from hardship—a virtue the Congregation has practiced for centuries. The cross rises from the background of the coat of arms, signifying that our salvation lies in the cross, in Christ. Around the shield, on the ribbon, are the words of St. Paul: “Caritas Christi Urget Nos” – “The love of Christ compels us” (2 Cor 5:14).

We have selected from these coat of arms variations.