What does the pelican have to do with the crucifixion of Jesus?

This may seem like an odd question.  But in early Christian times, it was widely believed that the pelican, out of her great love for her children, pierced her own breast and fed them with her own blood when food was scarce. This legend made the pelican an enduring sign of love and protection.  And for some Christians, the bird itself became a powerful symbol.  For Christians the pelican-in-her-piety was a symbol for the atonement.  The connection the ancients saw is obvious, and worthy of reflection.  We may understand the truth about Pelicans now, but we still testify that Jesus Chris shed his blood on our behalf.  As the prophet Isaiah foretold, Jesus, “Was pierced for our transgressions.”

JLM