Thomas Flanagan

THOMAS FLANAGAN

Born: October 23, 1930
Deceased:

Auxiliary Bishop of San Antonio, 1998-2005; Titular Bishop of Bavagaliana

Official blazon
English	blazon wanted

Party per saltire azure and or. In chief azure a dove rising argent on a lily branch gold, in dexter gold a St. Brigid's cross vert, in sinister gold a rose gules barbed vert seeded gold, in base azure a lamb argent.

Origin/meaning

The arms symbolizes his family origins, his priestly vocation, and his devotion to the service of the Church and the people of God.

The blue chief evokes the inner peace and serenity present when the Holy Spirit, symbolized by the flying dove, is called upon to guide, direct and empower Bishop Flanagan in his service to the people. The dove is also a symbol of peace, gentleness, healing and compassion; all part of Bishop Flanagan's ministry in the parishes and with the Charismatic Renewal of the Archdiocese of San Antonio. The gold lily is a symbol of the lily of St. Joseph, Bishop Flanagan's middle name.

In dexter is a green St. Brigid's cross in the field of gold. The green cross symbolizes Bishop Flanagan's homeland of Ireland, his missionary call to leave Ireland, and the many parishes that he has served in the Archdiocese of San Antonio, including the most recent parish community of St. Brigid.

In sinister is a red rose, barbed green seeded gold. In displaying this charge Bishop Flanagan places himself under the patronage of Mary of Knock, a patroness of Ireland and Our Lady of Guadalupe, Patroness of the Americas.

The lamb in base symbolizes Christ, the Good Shepherd and Bishop Flanagan's role of shepherd in the Church. It also symbolizes the people of god, all people called into the one body of Christ. The blue background is for peace and unity, qualities that Bishop Flanagan brings with his commitment to ecumenism.

The motto "For Christ We Are Ambassadors" expresses Bishop Flanagan's priestly motto of his ordination class, and his desire to continue to be an ambassador of hope, sharing God's love and forgiveness. It also expresses his commitment to encourage and challenge all of God's people to be agents of hope, love, and forgiveness.

To complete the achievement of arms, an Episcopal had in green and the mantling is the double six tassels of a bishop. The Celtic cross in gold forms the hilt of the sword behind the shield.

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