Heraldry has been variously described as "the shorthand of history" and "the floral border in the garden of history."  In its most general sense heraldry encompasses all matters relating to the duties and responsibilities of officers of arms. To most, though, heraldry is the practice of designing, displaying, describing and recording coats of arms and badges.  The focus of modern heraldry is the armorial achievement, or coat of arms. The central element of a coat of arms is the shield.  The shields above are from registered arms of members of St. James of Jerusalem.

Non Nobis, Domine, Non Nobis, Sed Nomini Tuo Da Glorium
Not unto us, O Lord, Not unto us, But to Thy Name Be Glory Given  Psalm 115