The Franciscan Coat of Arms is a specifically Franciscan symbol. In the background of the image is the Tau Cross. St. Francis used the Tau in his writings, painted it
on the walls of the places where he stayed, and even used it as his signature. In front are two crossed arms: Christ’s right hand with the nail wound from his cross and Francis’ left hand bearing the stigmata. The image is one of love: both God's overflowing love poured out for us and in St. Francis with the stigmata, a demonstration of a Francis' absolutely wholehearted and enthusiastic response to God's love.  #stfrancisofassisi  #stlawrence