Our Emblems: Symbols and Traditions of FNE
The emblems, Baussant and uniform of the Federation of North-American Explorers (FNE) are visible expressions of our Catholic faith, shared heritage and commitment to serving God and neighbour. Rooted in the traditions of our international movement, these symbols remind every Explorer of the values expressed in the Explorer Promise and Law and of our calling to follow Jesus Christ in our daily lives.
The Maltese Cross and Fleur-de-Lis
The emblem of our movement is traditionally described in heraldic language as “argent an eight-pointed cross gules, overlaid with a golden fleur-de-lis.” It was chosen by the founders of the European movement in Cologne, Germany, in 1956, and remains a symbol of unity among Explorers throughout our international family.
The red Maltese Cross recalls the ideals of Christian knighthood, particularly the Order of St. John of Jerusalem. Its red colour symbolizes courage, generosity and the blood of the Christian martyrs who gave their lives for their faith.
The eight points of the Cross represent the eight Beatitudes taught by Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:3–12). These teachings remind us of the virtues we are called to practise as followers of Christ, including humility, mercy, purity of heart and the pursuit of peace.
At the centre of the Cross is the golden fleur-de-lis, a traditional symbol of the Explorer movement. Historically associated with the north-pointing mark on old maps, it reminds us to follow the right direction in life, with Jesus Christ as our ultimate guide.
Its three points represent truthfulness, devotedness and purity, virtues reflected in the Explorer Law.
Together, the Maltese Cross and fleur-de-lis express our commitment to living the Catholic faith with courage, honour and service.
The emblem appears on our uniforms, headwear, belt buckles and the movement's flag, known as the Baussant.
The Baussant
The Baussant is the traditional flag of the Guides and Scouts of Europe and is shared by FNE as part of our international heritage. Its name comes from the Old French expression “beau signe,” meaning “beautiful sign.”
The Baussant was adopted in 1966 during a pilgrimage celebrating the millennium of Mont-Saint-Michel in France.
Inspired by the historic banner of the Knights Templar, the Baussant has two vertical fields: black on the left and white on the right, with the red Maltese Cross and golden fleur-de-lis at its centre.
Each colour carries a profound Christian meaning.
White represents the banner of Christ, Heaven and the works of the Holy Spirit. It reminds us of the light, truth and holiness to which God calls us.
Black represents earthly life, our daily struggles and our responsibility to resist evil and remain faithful to Christ.
The Cross and fleur-de-lis at the centre remind us that Christ, through His sacrifice on the Cross, has conquered sin and death and calls us to follow Him faithfully.
Together, these symbols remind us of the continuing struggle between good and evil and our responsibility to choose what is good, true and holy.
The Baussant holds a place of honour within our movement, particularly during important ceremonies associated with the Explorer Promise.
It is more than a flag. It is a visible reminder of our commitment to help establish the reign of Christ in our hearts, our families, our communities and the world around us.
Our Uniform
The FNE uniform is a visible expression of our Catholic identity, our unity as Explorers and our commitment to the ideals of the movement.
Wearing the uniform reminds us that we belong to something greater than ourselves: a brotherhood and sisterhood united in faith, service and shared purpose.
By wearing a common uniform, we set aside differences in fashion, personal background and social circumstances. We stand together as members of one movement, sharing the same Promise, Law and traditions as our brothers and sisters in the wider international family.
Every part of the uniform has a purpose and meaning.
The uniform shirt, shorts or skirt, and knee-length socks reflect the traditions, simplicity and practical outdoor character of our movement.
The leather belt and Explorer Cross buckle remind us that accepting discipline freely is part of being prepared to serve and fulfil our responsibilities.
Badges and insignia identify membership, achievements, skills and progress, while encouraging each Explorer to develop the gifts and talents God has given them.
Traditional headwear, including the Explorer hat, Timberwolf beret and Otter bucket hat, reflects the identity and traditions of each FNE program.
The group neckerchief identifies each FNE group through its distinctive colours and reminds members of their group's honour, history and spiritual identity.
The triangular shape of the neckerchief also recalls the Holy Trinity: Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
Each group's approved colour combination carries special meaning, reflecting both our Catholic faith and the beauty of God's creation.
The neckerchief is also practical, serving many purposes during outdoor adventures and in first aid.
Our uniform is not simply clothing. It is a public expression of who we are and what we believe. When wearing it, we represent FNE, our fellow Explorers and the Catholic values we strive to live.
We are called to wear it with pride, humility, respect and a readiness to serve.Write your story/text here.
Living What Our Symbols Represent
The Maltese Cross, fleur-de-lis, Baussant and uniform are much more than decorations or reminders of our history.
They invite us to live our Explorer Promise, practise the Explorer Law, serve our neighbour and grow closer to Jesus Christ.
Our symbols remind us not only of who we are, but also of who God calls us to become: faithful Catholics, courageous Explorers and, ultimately, saints.