The Cock often represents St. Peter, symbolizing Peter’s denial of Christ and repentance. The cock also symbolizes Christ’s Passion (John 13:38) and is connected to watchfulness and vigilance because it crows early in the morning.

The Dove is the symbol of the Holy Spirit and first appears at the baptism of Christ (John I:32.) The dove, an ancient symbol of purity and peace, was sent out of the ark by Noah to show that God had made peace with man (Genesis 8).

The Phoenix stands for faith and constancy and the resurrection of Jesus Christ. A mythical bird, the phoenix was said to burn itself upon a funeral pyre and then rise in all the freshness of youth to enter into a new life cycle. Thus its association with Jesus Christ and the Resurrection.