Symbolism of the SBS School Seal

Click for a Larger View

Faceted Star:
From the seal of the Christian Brothers, signifying Faith.

Broken Chevrons:
St. John Baptiste, de la Salle, founder of The Brothers of Christian School. From the family arms of de la Salle, Alphonsus the Chaste, King of Oviedo, assigned the Arms of Johan Salla, head of the family and Warrior-Chief of the King.  The broken chevrons symbolize the broken legs received in battle.

Checkered Cross:
The checkered pattern refers to the reputed arms of St. Bernard.  St. Bernard of Clarivaux lived at the very dawn of heraldry (1090-1153) and the Cistercians posthumously composed a coat of arms to honor the great saint who restored the literal observance of  The Rule of St. Benedict.

Descending Dove:
From the insignia of The Daughters of the Holy Spirit, the teaching congregation at Saint Bernard in New London, Connecticut.

Laity:
A symbol to recognize the contribution of the lay faculty and staff that has served the school for the past 50 years as teachers and administrators.

Triangle and Anchor:
The seal designed for the Saint Bernard Academy by Mother Mary Luke, Sisters of Charity, first Principal of the Academy. The triangle represents the Blessed Trinity, while the cross is for faith, the anchor for hope, and the flame is for love.

Sunflower and Cross:
From the insignia of The Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur, the teaching congregation at Notre Dame High School, Norwich, Connecticut and Saint Bernard in Montville, Connecticut.

Ribbon:
A banner marking the school’s affiliation as a Xaverian Brothers Sponsored School.

Shamrock Dividers:
From the Arms of the Diocese of Norwich