The extended hands of friendship signify reconciliation to move ‘Forward to a Better World’. The dove holding the olive branch is a symbol of hope for the future, reminding us of life beyond. The olive branch is a biblical symbol of God’s saving action in our lives (Genesis 8:11); and a link to Good Samaritan Education: a sign of new life in the community of God’s faithful. The rose is the symbol of our patron, St. Rita. The rose is thought to represent God’s love for Rita and Rita’s ability to intercede on behalf of lost or impossible cases. Rita is often depicted holding roses or with roses nearby. The Celtic cross is a link to our Irish Catholic heritage. All of these symbols are placed upon a shield: We wait in hope for the Lord; he is our help and our shield.
