Posted on 04/23/2010 1:31:13 PM PDT by Irisshlass
In the construction of a Catholic church, the symbol of the cross is a central theme throughout the architecture and furnishings as it is the Christian sign of our salvation. The great altar of sacrifice is adorned with an altar cross: that is, a crucifix with the image of Our Lord affixed to it. When a church is consecrated, it has twelve crosses placed on the walls of the church to be anointed with sacred chrism. The vestments of chasuble, stole, maniple, and amice each have a cross sewn into them; the Stations of the Cross are to have wooden crosses attached to them; and the mensa (table) of the altar has five crosses cut into it. Furthermore, in each of the seven Sacraments, the Sign of the Cross is mandatory, and the Sign of the Cross is made over 50 times in the Mass itself.
Catholics in the first century began to make the Sign of the Cross on their forehead when beginning new tasks of the day or when praying. Over time, the Sign of the Cross was made over various parts of the body with particular intentions, and eventually, these Signs of the Cross were united in one large sign as we make now.
(Excerpt) Read more at fssp.com ...
I’ve always thought the term “Holy Cross”, which is commonly used by Christians, to be a misnomer. I see nothing holy about a cruel implement of torture and capital punishment. The Lamb who was sacrificed, He is indeed Holy!!
That is your opinion...I guess I should of posted this under a different category...I posted this for info/history of the Holy Cross, alot probably already know the story, maybe some forgot, like myself, something we can share with our children. I didn’t intend it for a debate.
No debate. Just a thought.
Everything can be called holy that was touched or used by the Lord for His greater glory and for our redemption in His name.
He chose the Holy Cross as his throne of atonement for us.
Blessings to you.
Thank-you :)
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