The Orthodox pectoral cross is not a piece of jewelry, but a symbol of faith. Choosing it, it is necessary first of all to pay attention not to the beauty and precious metals from which it was made, but to compliance with Orthodox traditions. You can buy a cross in a church shop or jewelry store.
Instruction manual
1
The pectoral cross is given to a baptized Christian who has adopted the Orthodox faith. It should be worn constantly at the heart, recalling the image of the Cross of Christ. Since ancient times, the eight-pointed shape of the cross and the inscription “Save and save” have been adopted in Russia. But since the form of this attribute has constantly changed throughout the history of the Christian faith, other options are acceptable: seven-pointed, four-pointed, trefoil, and others. You can also wear a cross with other inscriptions, for example, "Blessed Virgin Mary, help us." They are not required, but not contraindicated.
2
When choosing a cross, note that Orthodox crosses are different from Catholic crosses, which depict Christ on the crucifix. You can buy this option, but it is necessary that Jesus' hands be straight and his legs not crossed. Also, it should not have a crown of thorns.
3
The place where you will buy the cross is not important - the main thing is that the people who made it accept the traditions of the church. Therefore, you can safely choose this symbol of the Orthodox faith in workshops, jewelry stores and shops. It is also necessary that the cross be sanctified. In the church shop, all the crosses are blessed, in the shops they also often sell such crosses, the place of blessing is indicated on them and who performed it. Rite should not be repeated, it is not necessary to attach importance to where and how it was held. If the cross is not consecrated, go to church and ask the priest to read prayers over it.
4
Crosses are made of various materials, no rules exist here. There are crosses made of wood, amber, bone, copper, bronze. Precious metals are acceptable, since they mean the desire of a Christian to embellish his most precious value. But the main thing is not the beauty of the cross, but your attitude towards it.
5
There are superstitions, according to which it is forbidden to wear a donated cross. The church does not forbid it; you can sanctify it and wear it. Do not be afraid to raise the dropped cross, because this is a shrine, and it must be treated with respect. Lift it, sanctify and wear it. You can give crosses, but you must carefully select it.
