Patrick Michael Neary
PATRICK MICHAEL NEARY
Born: March 6, 1963
Deceased:
Bishop of Saint Cloud, 2023-present
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Origin/meaning
As common in US episcopal heraldry, the arms show the arms of the diocese impaled with the personal arms of the bishop.
The cross and anchors are a symbol of the Congregation of Holy Cross, the religious order of the bishop. The anchor is an ancient Christian symbol, signifying that in the storms of life we must cling to the cross and the hope it brings. It is a visible symbol of the motto of Holy Cross chosen by the bishop: Ave Crux, Spes Unica" - "Hail the Cross, Our Only Hope:'
The river symbolizes the Jordan River, where Jesus was baptized, thus reminding us of our own baptism into Christ's death and resurrection. It also recalls the great rivers in areas where the bishop has served: the Nile River in Uganda, the Columbia River in Oregon, and the Mississippi River in Minnesota.
The fish recall Jesus' call of the fishermen to be his disciples, as well as the miracle of the loaves and fishes. Fish are also a symbol of Christ, which was used by the early Christians to identify themselves as followers of Jesus. (The Diocese of St. Cloud is blessed to be in a region that provides ample opportunities for fishing its beautiful lakes and rivers.)
Last, the six-pointed star recalls Mary, Star of the Sea, a title attributed to her since the eighth century, meaning that Mary is the star to be followed on the way to Christ.
The gold processional cross behind the shield is a Celtic cross in honor of St. Patrick, the bishop's patron saint, who was a missionary bishop to the Irish people and is known as the Apostle of Ireland:'
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Literature: Diocese of Saint Cloud
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