James J. Navagh

Most Reverend James Johnston Navagh
Seventh Bishop of Ogdensburg
(1957-1963)











Most Reverend James Johnston Navagh’s coat of arms bears symbols of his episcopal office - the green gallero with six tassels arranged in three rows on each side of a shield, and the miter, processional cross, and crosier.
 


The dexter field of blue has a silver fort recalling La Presentation and golden oak leaves representing Samuel Ogden (oak dene) who purchased and settled the mission site after the American Revolution.
 


On the sinister field of the shield, a chevron with rafters supporting a roof recalls Bishop Navagh’s forebears who were shipbuilders. The bishop also intended that the rafter portray his ardent desire to build in Christ and for Christ.

Two stars symbolize the Blessed Virgin Mary as Star of the Sea and Morning Star.

The escallop of St. James the Greater, the bishop’s patron saint, recalls the bishop’s years as Director of the Missionary Apostolate and also his desire to fulfill the commission of Jesus, “Go therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”
 


The bishop’s motto, IPSAM COGITANS NON ERAS, “MEDITATING ON MARY, YOU ERR NOT,” is inscribed on the scroll.