The Phoenix was a fabulous mythical Arabian bird, said to be as large as an eagle, with brilliant scarlet and gold plumage and a melodious cry. It was said that only one Phoenix existed at any one time, and it was very long-lived. No ancient sources gave it a life-span of less than 500 years. As its end approached, the Phoenix made a nest of aromatic branches and spices, set it on fire, and was consumed in the flames. From the ashes and from the midst of the flames, as in our crest, miraculously sprang a new Phoenix.

The outstretched wings, in the crest of St. Peter's is to help us understand the goals and spirit of the Phoenix rising. The Phoenix is the symbol of hope and rebirth and because of this, the gods vowed that as long as the Phoenix lives, there is hope for mankind. In the St. Peter's Crest, the Phoenix is seen to hold an olive branch in its beak to signify that each student of St. Peter's School is a peace-maker and cherishes peace.