The outer circle symbolizes the world in which all Christians are called to witness to the Gospel. It is yellow or gold because God wants the earth to be “filled with the knowledge of the Lord’s glory as water covers the sea” (Hab 2:14). In other words, “God our savior… wills everyone to be saved and to come to knowledge of the truth” (1 Tim 2:3-4). The mystery of God’s plan has been revealed: to “unite all things in Christ” (Eph 1:10).
The white inner circle with a Cross evokes the Eucharist in which we recall Jesus’ saving Passion, and receive him as “pledge of future glory” (cf. O Sacrum Convivium, 1 Cor 10:16). “The sacraments, especially the most holy Eucharist, communicate and nourish that charity which is the soul of the entire apostolate” (Apostolicam Actuositatem, n. 3).
The letter Ls represent the Catholic laity who are full members of the Body of Christ, the People of God (“laity” comes from the Greek word “laos”, meaning “people”). The letters are blue, the color of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God, mother, model and mediatrix of all Christ’s faithful.
The letters are twelve, the number of the official witnesses of Christ’s resurrection who were given the mandate: “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations” (Mt 28:19). In this mission, the laity participate fully and in various ways.
The letters are also interlocking, forming a cross: whether acting individually or as families or as organizations, the laity are to work with each other in the spirit of communion and subsidiarity. Their unity in Christ validates their witness (cf. Jn 17:23).
The interlocking letters form a “standing” Cross, symbolizing the courage and humility of the Christian: “Always be ready to give an explanation to anyone who asks you for a reason for your hope, but do it with gentleness and reverence, keeping your conscience clear” (1 Pt 3:15-16).
