Introduction to Pope Leo XIV and His Symbolism
This weekend, the official coat of arms and motto of Pope Leo XIV were unveiled. The new Pontiff decided to retain the same symbols he used during his episcopal consecration, drawing inspiration from Augustinian spirituality.
The Pope’s Motto: “In Illo Uno Unum”
Pope Leo XIV’s motto, “In Illo Uno Unum,” originates from a sermon by St. Augustine on Psalm 127, meaning “in the one, one alone.” This phrase illustrates St. Augustine’s explanation that, despite Christians being numerous, they are one in Christ.
According to Vatican News, the choice of these words reflects Pope Leo XIV’s call for unity and communion within the Church, a vision that has shaped his path even before assuming the papacy.
The Coat of Arms: A Glimpse into Pope Leo XIV’s Augustinian Background
The papal coat of arms also preserves key elements from Pope Leo XIV’s journey as an Augustinian religious figure. It is divided diagonally into two sections:
- The upper section, with a blue background, displays a white lily—a symbol of purity and faith.
- The lower section, on a light background, features a representation linked to the Order of St. Augustine: a closed book with a heart pierced by an arrow, evoking the saint’s conversion and his famous quote: “You have pierced my heart with your Word”.
The continuity in using these symbols confirms Pope Leo XIV’s desire to maintain a pastoral identity centered on the Augustinian ideal of communion, participation, and mission—values also essential in the current synodal path of the Church.
Why Choose the Name Leo XIV?
Pope Leo XIV explained that he chose his papal name due to his commitment to social issues amidst the challenges of the new industrial revolution and artificial intelligence, during a meeting with cardinals.
The new leader of the Catholic Church, the first American pope, has been closely followed since his election on Thursday.
In a speech to members of the College of Cardinals, the new pontiff explained that his chosen name reflects his commitment to social causes defended by Leo XIII during the 19th century, who was a strong advocate for workers’ rights.
“I considered taking the name Leo XIV. There are several reasons, but the main one is because Pope Leo XIII, with his historic Encyclical Rerum novarum, addressed social issues during the first major industrial revolution,” said the 69-year-old pope.
“Today, the Church offers all its social doctrine heritage to respond to another industrial revolution and the developments in artificial intelligence, which bring new challenges in defending human dignity, justice, and work,” he added.
Pope Leo XIV pledged to continue the style of Francis, characterized by “total dedication to service,” as he stated that being pope means being a “humble servant of God and brothers, and nothing more.”
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the meaning of Pope Leo XIV’s motto? His motto, “In Illo Uno Unum,” comes from a sermon by St. Augustine on Psalm 127, meaning “in the one, one alone.” It signifies that despite Christians being numerous, they are one in Christ.
- What does Pope Leo XIV’s coat of arms symbolize? The coat of arms is divided diagonally, with the upper section displaying a white lily on a blue background (symbolizing purity and faith) and the lower section featuring a closed book with a heart pierced by an arrow, representing St. Augustine’s conversion and his famous quote.
- Why did Pope Leo XIV choose the name Leo XIV? He chose this name due to his commitment to social issues amidst the challenges of the new industrial revolution and artificial intelligence, echoing the social advocacy of Leo XIII.
