Heraldry of the Archdiocese of Colombo
While the history of ecclesiastical heraldries dates to the 11th century Middle Ages, the history of Christian flags goes even beyond to Biblical times. A diocesan heraldry and flag signify the establishment of a territory under the jurisdiction of a particular local church. It visually represents the identity, values, and mission of the diocese. These symbols reflect theological, canonical, cultural, and historical aspects of the diocese's foundation and purpose.
Since its establishment in 1887, the Archdiocese of Colombo has not had an official heraldry or flag. The Jubilee Year 2025 presents the perfect opportunity to integrate these elements into its identity as the metropolitan diocese of Sri Lanka.
Explanation of the Heraldic Insignia
This heraldry is divided into four main parts:
- Portion above the shield
- The shield – within and over
- Portion behind the shield
- Portion below the shield
a) Portion above the shield
Includes four integrated symbols representing the Assumption of Our Lady and her queenship:
- Monogram – Ave Maria (Luke 1:28)
- Crescent (Revelation 12:1)
- Clouds (Acts 1:9)
- Angel wings (John 1:51)
- Tiara featuring:
- Crux Quadrata (Two Square Crosses)
- Fleur-de-lis (symbolizing purity)
- Twelve Precious Stones (Revelation 12:1)
b) Portion of the Shield
The shield is divided into four colored fields, each representing different cultural and pastoral dimensions of the Archdiocese:
- Yellow field: Lion with kastane sword – Kingdom of Kotte and Burgher Catholic heritage
- Green field: St. Lucy – Arab, Persian, and Semitic Catholic community
- Red field: St. Lawrence – Indigenous Sinhalese Catholics
- Orange field: Carrack ship – Tamil Catholics and Portuguese missionary arrival
The blue border symbolizes the coastal belt where Catholicism first entered Sri Lanka. The four fields reflect the Archbishop’s roles: sanctifying, teaching, shepherding, and evangelizing.
Over the shield:- Pallium Cross: A mark of metropolitan authority and pastoral responsibility (cf. Matthew 11:28–30, 16:24–26)
- Na flower (Mesua ferrea): National tree flower, a symbol used by Thomas Cardinal Cooray, associated with Our Lady of Lanka
c) Portion behind the shield
- Archbishop’s Cross: Two-barred cross symbolizing episcopal authority and resurrection
- Priestly Stole: Represents all diocesan clergy
- Girdle with three knots: Signifies consecrated religious and their vows
d) Portion below the shield
Parchment scroll: Displays the Latin name of the Archdiocese.