Significance of a Coat of Arms

A coat of arms is a graphical symbol of a family. It represents the unity shared by those who bear it. It encourages the family's values, honor and service to society and is a constant reminder of ongoing responsibility to add meaning and honor to the family.

It represents their proud relationship with those of the past, present and future. For a diocese, it binds a people under something that they can call their very own and which ties to the place where they live. As the Cross is a symbol of all Christians, so is the coat of arms a symbol of a diocese.

About Our Coat of Arms

The diocesan arms consists of a gold cross against a green field, with a star and wavy border, both in silver.

• The main colors, green and gold, recall the fertile plains and fields of western Nebraska, while the cross, reaching to the edges of the heraldic field, recalls the Lord's commission to his Church, to make disciples of all the nations.
• The Morning Star is a traditional symbol of Mary the Virgin, who is patroness of the diocese and of the Cathedral of the Nativity.
• The silver border represents the Platte River, which borders the diocese for almost two hundred miles along its southern edge.
• Crowning the shield is the mitre, which is worn by bishops as a symbol of their special dignity and authority in the Church.