Of all sacred images revered by the Christian community, the cross is preeminent. It is the symbol of the Paschal mystery. The cross is most cherished by the Church in that it represents Christ's suffering and victory, while at the same time pointing to our own. 

The earliest crosses were seen as emblems of victory. Thus, the earliest portrayals of Jesus upon the cross, from the 6th to the 12th centuries, show Him alive, crowned and robed in majesty as a king.





Our cross is reflective of the Crucifix of Santa Croce in Florence. The Santa Croce crucifix was painted by Cenni di Pepo (Giovanni) Cimabue, who was a Florentine painter.

(To the left: Crucifix, 1287-1288; Panel, 448 x 390 cm; Basilica di Santa Croce, Florence.)



 

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Father, the tree, once the source of shame and death
for humankind has become the cross of our redemption and life.
May we reap the harvest of salvation planted in pain by Christ Jesus.
May the cross be our comfort in trouble,
our refuge in face of danger, our safeguard on life's journey
until you welcome us to our heavenly home.

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