Peter Leslie Smith

PETER LESLIE SMITH

Born: February 8, 1958
Deceased:

Auxiliary Bishop of Portland in Oregon, 2014-present
Titular Bishop of Tubunae

Official blazon
English	blazon wanted

Origin/meaning

Bishop Peter was born and raised in Pietermaritzburg, in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The shield is of the shape of the shields of Zulu warriors. The blue and the star at the top of the shield have dual meanings. They are part of the coat of arms of KwaZulu-Natal. The blue also represents the Blessed Virgin Mary. Bishop Peter's home parish was Saint Mary's in Pietermaritzburg, and it is staffed by priests from the Oblates of Mary Immaculate community. The star also represents the star of Bethlehem, and the incarnation of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

The jagged gold edges also have several meanings. They reflect the Drakensberg mountains on the western border of KwaZulu-Natal, referred to as the barrier of spears (Ukhahlamba) by the Zulu people. They also reflect the Cascade mountain range on the eastern border of the Archdiocese of Portland in Oregon. In the spiritual sense, they are symbolic of Jesus Christ in his ministry travers ing the countryside and proclaiming the kingdom of God in the hills, valleys, and along the way, wherever people would listen.

The burning fire represents the Holy Spirit coming upon the Apostles and disciples at Pentecost.

The hands below the fire represent arms being raised in praise and worship of God. This is a heraldic representation of the image of the People of Praise community which Bishop Peter has been a member of for 31 years. The gold background is reflective of honoring Christ. Overall it is intended to reflect and honor the Trinity.

The rose at the center of the cross above the shield reflects Portland, the City of Roses, and the Archdiocese of Portland in Oregon where Bishop Peter was ordained in 2001. The Church awards a Golden Rose to Marian shrines and basilicas and this also reflects Saint Mary's Cathedral where Bishop Peter will now be consecrated a bishop.

The motto is from Saint Paul's letter to the Colossians (1:27), and is the phrase "Christ in you, hope for glory." It is a summary of Saint Paul's understanding of the indwelling Christ and how Christ is revealed to the world through his faithful people, the Church.

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