The crest of the Sisters of St John of God congregation shows a pomegranate set between two branches beneath a cross. The pomegranate is a symbol of charity because when the fruit is ripe the skin bursts open. The cross is a reminder that to love is to suffer as well as to give, while the branches are a sign of victory to those who have persevered.
The 'Mercy Cross' was designed by Catherine McAuley and reflected her deep love for the crucified Jesus. The tradition of the Sisters of Mercy is that the body of Jesus is not shown on the Cross as each Sister places herself upon the Cross in union with Jesus. It was black with a white inset and attached to a large rosary hanging from the belt worn at the waist. It was modernised in 1966, keeping the basics of the original symbol in place.
The Josephite Emblem, worn by the Sisters of St Joseph, is symbolic and traditional in its origin. The M is for Mary, the Mother of God. The three Js are for Jesus, Joseph and John the Baptist. Mary MacKillop had great devotion to John the Baptist - the one who came to prepare the way for Jesus. This monogram, formed in blue braid, was first worn by the early Sisters on the front of their brown habit.
The crest of Archbishop Prendiville shows his Irish heritage with the harp, his Australian home with the Southern Cross and Black Swans for Western Australia. The Gaelic football reminds us of his sporting skills and the cross tells us of his deep faith.
The crest of the congregation of Christian Brothers has many symbols. The Celtic lettering and tracery are symbolic of the congregation's Irish origins and the star is a symbol of enlightenment and guidance. The circle represents eternity and the open book indicates learning is to be brought to the young. The letters Alpha and Omega remind us that God is the beginning and the end of all truth. The motto 'Facere Et Docere' means 'to do and teach'
