Heraldry is a complex and specialised language consisting of a myriad of figures and the coat of arms for a cardinal is a special mark, graphic expression, synthesis and message of his ministry.
In the case of the coat of arms of Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, SDB, the emblazonment - heraldic description - does not currently carry the shield attached to a styli cross made of gold, placed on a pole, because the Rector Major is not a bishop.
Inside the hooded shield, in the first section the characteristic figure of Jesus the Good Shepherd, found in the Catacombs of San Callisto, in Rome stands out – these Catacombs are entrusted to the care of the Sons of Don Bosco; in the second section, at the top left, the monogram "MA", with reference to Mary Help of Christians, surmounted by a crown of the same colour; in the third, the anchor with two hooks, silver, strung in red. The shield is stamped with a hat with beads and red tassels, a sign of cardinal dignity. The tassels, thirty in number, are arranged fifteen per part, in five orders of 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.
Under the shield, in the silver list, the motto in black capital letters: "SUFFICIT TIBI GRATIA MEA" (My grace is enough for you).
As is noted in more detail in the explanation of the emblazonment of the coat of arms of the new cardinal, the figure of the Good Shepherd in the centre of the shield expresses the centrality of the figure of Christ, "the true shepherd who leads his people".
The monogram of Mary Help of Christians recalls the mother to whom Don Bosco entrusted the Congregation and whom he always recommended we pray to.
Finally, the anchor reminds us that Cardinal Ángel FERNÁNDEZ ARTIME SDB is the son of a fisherman from seas around Spain. It therefore recalls his origins; but at the same time, the anchor is also found in the coat of arms of the Congregation, and recalls that Don Bosco himself wanted it as a symbol of the theological virtue of hope.
The episcopal motto, taken from Saint Paul (2 Cor 12: 9), expresses trust in Divine Providence.
