About our Seal

The shield itself is surrounded by three rings signifying the three Persons of the Blessed Trinity.  All of the work of the Institute is done with the Trinity and for the Trinity. 

The crest is quartered by a cross of gold representing that the heart of the Institute is singly and purely devoted to the Savior, Jesus Christ, Who by His Passion and Cross won redemption for the world. 

The first quarter of the crest is the crown above the word "humilitas".  This is taken from the crest of the Institute's namesake, Bishop Charles H. Helmsing.  He himself previously took this image from one of the quarters of the coat of arms of St. Charles Borromeo.  It demonstrates that the crown of glory and eternal life can only be gained through a life steeped in the virtue of humility.  The Institute looks to Bishop Helmsing as its model of humility. 

The second quarter is a field azure (blue) charged with a crescent argent (moon) enclosing the star of six points countercharged: gules (red) and white pale.  This is taken from the crest of the Institute's founder, Bishop Robert W. Finn.  A field of blue carries the image of "Christ in Mary," a favorite theme of Bishop Finn. An unbroken crescent moon, symbol of the Ever-Virgin Mary, embraces Christ, hope of the world and fulfillment of the messianic promise to David. Christ is the Divine Mercy pouring out upon the world the Water and the Blood - the baptismal waters, our justification, and the Blood of Christ, our redemption. Mary is "Mater Misericordiae," Mother of Mercy, and she shares uniquely in the revelation of mercy. 

The third quarter is a field azure charged with a grizzly bear.  This is taken from the crest of the Diocese of Kansas City~St. Joseph.  The diocese took the charge from the seal of the state of Missouri.  The grizzly bear symbolizes the strength and bravery of the citizens of the state.

The fourth quarter is charged with the text of Sacred Scripture and the words "Dei Verbum" inscribed on the pages.  This symbolizes that the basis for the Institute is the Word of God as found in Scripture and Tradition.  The Institute strives to hand on what the Catholic Church has received from the Apostles who received Truth directly from Jesus Christ. 

The motto of the Institute is Duc in altum ("Put out into the deep").  This was the instruction by Christ to the Apostles encouraging them to put their boat out into the deep water in order to catch the large load of 153 fish.  Its spiritual sense is the Holy Spirit encouraging His apostles to strive for holiness and study truth in a total manner, leaving behind any self-serving or proud tendencies.  It is in this way that we are called to serve God and win souls for His Kingdom.