The Seal of the Cofradia de San Jose

By John Paul Aven

The seal, in harmonious meaning, makes the essence and devotion of the Cofradia San Jose more cohesively and intricately. The reimagined seal of the Cofradia has gone through in-depth study and side-to-side analysis with logos that are connected with the devotion to Inâ and the Divino Rostro. The seal now creates a holistic approach to every necessary aspect that needs to be illustrated to give a full image of the Cofradia de San Jose.

San Jose (St. Joseph) — The image of St. Joseph stands firm in the center of the emblem. It is the summit of Christian example to every member of the Cofradia. St. Joseph is why such propagation of devotion and solidarity to one another is established.

The medal of Auspice Maria — The symbol of Mary, or the Marian monogram symbolizes the purpose of the Cofradia in keeping the devotion to the Our Lady of Peñafrancia. Through devotion to Our Lady, every member of the Cofradia begins their deep desire to have a closer encounter with the Lord. In the same sense, the artistic rendition of the Auspice is based on the old main door of the Old Shrine of the Our Lady.

The Arma Christi of the Divino Rostro — Together with the symbol of Our Lady of Peñafrancia, the symbols also of Christ, the Divino Rostro, is put aside together with the Auspice. The devotion to the Divino Rostro has never been neglected by the Cofradia. For it, through the suffering of Christ, we share the sense of humility and obedience to the Father. It is through the divine Face of Christ that the Cofradia gained example and strength.

The color ‘Blue’ — Symbolizes the strength and obedience of the Cofradia. The sacrifices and decisions created, the will to do everything for the propagation and safekeeping of the devotion to Inâ and the Divino Rostro. The color ‘Silver’ — Symbolizes the nobility and the sacred work of being a member of the Cofradia. It is in faith that each member gained the desire to serve God through the devotion to the Our Lady. Seal concept, digitalization, and explanation was made by John Paul M.Aven who was commissioned by Mr. Paolo Gabriel D. Jamer.

Note: In December 8, 2008, a decree was issued by then Archbishop Leonardo Legaspi, OP on the organization of Cofradia de San Jose. The pastoral letter “PRINCIPALMENTE A LA MISA” which was issued last August 17, 2008 that called for a renewal in the conduct of the processions also called for the organization of voyadores and for preservation and promotion of the penitential character of the traslacion and fluvial processions. Moreover, the Cofradia will cooperate and coordinate with the clergy and civil authorities in making the traslacion and fluvial processions solemn and orderly. It will also maintain peace and order in the conduct of traslacion, fluvial and dawn processions. Moreover, it will also strengthen the unity and participation of all voyadores not only in traslacion and fluvial processions but also in other religious activities and formation. (Circular. No. 0037 Series of 2008)