The pectoral cross is worn by a person during the Sacrament of Baptism and is worn on the chest for the rest of his life. Crucifixion is a symbol of commitment to God, to the Orthodox faith. This sign helps in troubles and difficulties, strengthens the spirit, protects from demonic machinations. After the victory of Jesus Christ over death, the cross became a symbol of the triumph of good over evil.
Instruction manual
1
The pectoral cross is a sacred symbol, not a piece of jewelry. You should not buy a diamond-studded Crucifix just to boast of its wealth. God is in your soul and does not require an expression of love through precious pendants.
2
When choosing a body cross, pay attention not to the value of the metal from which it is made, but to the crucifix depicted. It can be Orthodox or Catholic.
3
Orthodox crosses have a very ancient history. Most often they are eight-pointed. The canon of the image of the Crucifixion was approved in 692 by the Tula Cathedral. Since then, his appearance has remained unchanged. The figure of Jesus Christ on the cross expresses peace, harmony and dignity. It embodies the most important of his hypostases - Divine and Human. The body of Christ is laid upon the cross and opens its arms to all afflicted, seeking to protect its novices from evil.
4
The Orthodox cross has the inscription "Save and save." This is due to the fact that during the consecration of the Crucifixion, the priest reads two prayers, calling to protect not only the soul, but also the body from evil forces. The cross becomes a guard of man from any burdens and tribulations.
5
The Catholic Church did not accept this concept, there the Crucifixion is depicted differently. The torments of Christ are expressed on the cross, his head in a crown of thorns, his feet folded together and pierced with a nail, his hands sagged at the elbows. Catholics present human suffering, forgetting the divine hypostasis.
6
Before putting on a pectoral cross, it must be consecrated. This can be done in any church, going to the priest before the service.
7
It is better to wear a pectoral cross under a shirt without exposing it. Especially if you go to gambling or drinking establishments. Remember that this is not an ornament, but one of the symbols of Faith.
8
The Divine does not accept superstitions, so all the tales about the fact that the found cross can not be picked up and taken for yourself or that the Crucifix cannot be given are fictitious. If you find a Crucifix, you can consecrate it and wear it calmly. Or give it to the temple, there it will be given to those in need. And to give a pectoral cross, of course, you can. By this you will only please your loved one, express your love for him.
