CHASUBLES

The connection to the Crucifixion: Just as the pelican—according to myth—gives its own life and blood for the survival of its offspring, so too does Christ sacrifice Himself on the Cross, shedding His blood for the redemption and salvation of humanity.

This symbolism stems from the way the female bird feeds her young: she crushes fish and lets them macerate in the membranous pouch hanging from her lower mandible, then presses her beak against her breast to release the food. It creates the impression that she is piercing her own breast to draw out the blood with which she nourishes her young; this image became legendary and eventually served as a symbol of Christ, who sheds His blood for the redemption of mankind.