A phoenix displayed Gules, grasping in its dexter talon a cross formed of two thorn branches Sable and in its sinister talon an hourglass proper; upon its breast an escutcheon Argent, a mullet Or within an annulet of eight mullets of the same, and in chief a bar gemel Sable.
The phoenix represents the new life found in Christ—rebirth through the repentance of sin and the forgiveness received by faith in His death and resurrection (2 Corinthians 5:17). It also embodies the joy and freedom of flight. The cross of thorns is both a play on my surname, Thorne, as well as a reminder of the suffering Jesus endured for my freedom. Opposite it, the hourglass symbolizes a time for all seasons (Ecclesiastes 3:1–8).
The shield bears nine golden stars, representing the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–23), the greatest of which is Love. Above them, two black bars declare a life devoted to service—first to God, and then to others (Matthew 22:37–39). Finally, the overall form bears a resemblance to the seal of the United States, reflecting my patriotism.
The motto Volatu Ad Altiora (Through flight to higher things) can be expanded to Volatu resurgo, ad altiora caeli tendo (By flight I rise again, reaching toward the higher things of heaven). This expresses the journey of sanctification—the Spirit’s ongoing work of shaping us into the likeness of Christ. It is not an instant change, but a lifelong ascent. Each time we fall, we repent and rise again, fixing our eyes on the Author and Finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:1-2).
Additional Notes
The design originally featured an American Eagle, chosen as a patriotic emblem. In time, however, I came to prefer the imagery of the phoenix. It not only conveys deeper symbolic meaning but also sets the design apart from the seal of the United States.
The shield has also been refined: the initials were removed for clarity, and the charges simplified. Although nine stars is still quite a bit for heraldic use, I prefer the balanced symmetry of eight encircling a central star over the earlier arrangement. The black bars were also expanded to give them greater prominence.
While the use of gold stars on a silver field technically violates the rule of tincture, no alternative color scheme proved satisfactory. A subtle black border around each star ensures they remain distinct and legible while preserving the intended symbolism.