The Pelican in Her Piety is an ancient Christian symbol dating back to the Middle Ages. The first mention of the Vulning Pelican was in the Physiologus, a bestiary which contained anecdotes about animals and how they reflect deep theological truths. Sometimes the animal attributes presented in bestiaries were legitimate animal behaviors, and other times these characteristics leaned more toward fiction. The intention of these bestiaries was not to share scientific facts, but rather deep theological truths in ways that were easy for people to understand.

And the amazing thing? All those lines met right in front of the tabernacle. Right where that little white dot was painted in our priest’s hands. Right there in a tiny host we believe to be the Body of Christ.