Coat of Arms of His Eminence Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith
The Heraldic Tradition in the Catholic Church
Every bishop and cardinal of the Catholic Church adopts a coat of arms accompanied by a personal motto—an emblematic declaration of the mission and spirit with which he intends to serve the Church and her people. These elements are thoughtfully crafted to reflect the individual's theological vision, cultural identity, and pastoral priorities. Often, the design incorporates motifs rooted in the moral traditions, local artistry, and religious heritage of his homeland.
The Coat of Arms of His Eminence Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith
In this spirit, the coat of arms of His Eminence Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith, Archbishop of Colombo, was designed to echo the richness of Sri Lankan Catholic identity and his own spiritual journey. True to tradition, the coat of arms is flanked by ten tassels—five rows of red knots on either side—marking his title as a cardinal. (By comparison, a bishop's insignia bears twelve tassels—six on each side—and an archbishop's carries eight.) Crowning the emblem is the distinctive galero, or cardinal's hat, traditionally bestowed by the Holy Father. Though it is never worn, the galero, often referred to as the "fisherman's hat" in reference to St. Peter the fisherman, serves as a symbol of the cardinal's office.
Marian Devotion and Symbolism
A deep Marian devotion lies at the heart of Cardinal Ranjith's ministry, symbolized by the color scheme of the coat of arms and rooted in his spiritual formation at the Shrine of Our Lady of Madhu. The background is in the cardinalatial color, red, signifying both martyrdom and the burning love of service. His unparalleled love for the Blessed Virgin Mary expresses his intention to minister under her maternal protection and intercession.
Eastern Cross and the Mission of Proclamation
Above the shield stands the Eastern archbishop's cross—an emblem used by leaders of the Eastern Christian Churches—signifying his desire to proclaim the triumph of the Cross across Sri Lanka, in communion with his brother bishops. At the center of the coat of arms appears another cross, denoting the archiepiscopal office, a powerful symbol of his commitment to bring Christ Crucified into the hearts of his faithful.
The Theological Heart: Unity of Divinity and Humanity
Central to the design is a unique and deeply theological image: two swans, one golden and one red, joined by the neck. The golden swan represents divinity; the red swan, humanity. Their unity expresses the mystery of the Incarnation—God becoming man. This theme is echoed in his personal motto: "Verbum Caro Factum Est"—"The Word Became Flesh" (John 1:14). In this, Cardinal Ranjith identifies with Christ's mission to live among the people, to be present with them in their joys, sufferings, and hopes, offering a visible sign of God's love and salvation.
A Living Theology in Symbol
His Eminence's coat of arms is more than a heraldic symbol; it is a living theology. It speaks to a life of service anchored in the Incarnation, inspired by the Cross, and sheltered by Mary's mantle. May the Lord bless His Eminence abundantly in his continued mission, and may he remain a faithful shepherd among the people of God for many more years to come.