original_query: What is the significance of heraldry within the Christian Church?
query: What is the significance of heraldry within the Christian Church?
answer: Ecclesiastical heraldry, the use of heraldry within the Christian Church, initially served to mark documents. It evolved into a system for identifying people and dioceses, most formalized within the Catholic Church but also practiced in Anglican, Lutheran, Eastern Catholic, and Eastern Orthodox churches.  Insignia around the shield indicate rank, and the system helps distinguish different church offices and institutions.