"Soli
Deo Gloria" - Be glory to the only God
The
symbol shown at left is worn only by Ursuline Sisters of Louisville
either on a chain or as a lapel pin. Created by the late Sister
Brigid Kirn and selected by the sisters from among 16 potential
designs, it was adopted in January 1976 to replace the habit (regulation
dress for the sisters).
The
cross was chosen as the basic structure because it is a universally
recognized sign of Jesus Christ. The flames, signifying consuming
love, are the work of the late Sister Benedicta O'Connor. The words,
Soli Deo Gloria are translated by the Ursuline Sisters as "Be
glory to the only God." These words can be traced back as early
as 1776 as the motto of Ursuline Sisters.