Description

Sanctification Cross from Mount Athos

Sanctification Cross is an elaborate Athonite workshop. It is made of pulpwood and pressed into a mold. It is made by the monks in the Holy Monastery of Iviron.

On one side of the cross is depicted the Crucifixion of the Lord. On the other side there is a relief depiction of the baptism of Jesus by St. John the Baptist who is on his left. To the right of Jesus, the baptism scene blesses Archangel Gabriel. Above the head of the Lord is depicted the pigeon symbolizing the Holy Spirit and the seven-pointed lamp which symbolizes the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit or the seven mysteries of the Church.

Sanctification Cross is covered with varnish that makes it waterproof when used in sanctification.

The importance of the Cross

The Cross of the Lord is a top symbol of sacrifice and sanctification for Christian faith. The Cross together with the Resurrection function as the two main axes on which the lives of Christians are moving. From these axes Christians get inspiration, meaning and strength for their lives. The Resurrection of the Lord follows His Crucifixion and His Cross preaches the Resurrection. Without a Cross, there is no Resurrection.

Every Christian should wear the cross as protection, but also as a witness of faith. In the temples, during divine service, the priest blesses the faithful by holding a cross in his hand. Especially in the consecration of sanctification, the priest dips the cross into the water to bless and sanctify it.

Origin: Holy Monastery of Iviron, Mount Athos

Dimensios: 18 x 7 cm