The sign of the Cross
Its Power, Meaning and Miracles.
Introduction
Twenty centuries ago the Cross was an instrument
of dishonourable punishment and of frightful death. The Romans condemned
violent convicts to the punishment of crucifixion.
Today the Cross is paramount in the whole
life of pious Christians, and of the whole life of our Church, as an instrument
of sacrifice, salvation, joy, sanctity and grace. As Saint Chrysostom writes,
"this cursed and abominable symbol of the worst punishment now has become a
desirable and beloved. One sees it everywhere. "On the holy Altar, in the
ordination of priests, in the divine liturgy, in the homes, at the markets, in
the deserts and on the roads; at sea in the ships and the islands; on the beds
and vestments, at the weddings, at banquets, on gold and silver utensils, on
jewelry and on frescos....... So desirable, this gift has become to all an
inexpressible joy.
Truly, wherever one looks, whether inside
or outside the Church one sees the sign of the Cross. As a visible symbol but
also as a sacred gesture. The sign of the Cross dominates in the life of the
Church.
But why?... Click here
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