by Greg | Mar 20, 2013 | Blog Posts
The Cross Potent The Cross Potent is also known as the Crutch Cross and the Teutonic Cross. This particular image, like many of the crosses pictured before, is pre-Christian and has been found in Neolithic petroglyphs, dating back to 2500 BC. Potent comes from the French potencee meaning ‘strong.’ Today it is used by Christian and secular organizations in logos and insignia. The Cross Potent was used as a national symbol of the Austrian First Republic, minted on the backside of the Groschen coins. It is currently used in the coats of arms of the Santa Cruz Department in Bolivia, and of the Wingolf Christian student fraternities in Germany, Austria and Estonia. “…be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his power.” (Ephesians 6:10) Prayer: Your cross Lord is our strength. May it forevermore remind us that through Your sacrifice, Your giving, Your love, we have all the strength we need to face this day. Therefore we take courage, Savior and Friend, that we may be strong, even when we are weak, because You bear us up, day by day, moment by moment, step by step: Lord, our Strength and our Power....
by Greg | Mar 19, 2013 | Blog Posts
The Macedonian Cross This cross is also known as Veljusa Cross because it was first displayed in the Veljusa monastery near Strumica around 1085. The Macedonian Cross is mainly connected with the Christianity in Macedonia and is a symbol of the Macedonian Orthodox Church. In addition to being found on many churches in Macedonia, it is displayed on the coat of arms of the Macedonian Orthodox Church. The arms of the cross are budded and interlocking, representing the everlasting love of God and the center square can be understood as the four corners of the world. “I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore I have continued my faithfulness to you:” (Jeremiah 31:3) Prayer: How long O Lord, how long will you love us? How long will you put up with our waywardness, our distractions, our failures? This we remember and for this we have hope: through the cross You have shown us an everlasting love. Though we falter and stumble, Your love for us does not....
by Greg | Mar 18, 2013 | Blog Posts
The Patriarchal Cross The Patriarchal Cross is a variation of the Russian Cross and the Papal Cross. This cross symbol was seen in wide numbers throughout the Byzantine Empire by the tenth century. It was thought to have been given to St. Stephen by the pope as a symbol of the apostolic Kingdom in Hungary. The two barred cross is one of the main elements in the coats of arms of Kingdom of Hungary since 1190. “But strive first for the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” (Matthew 6:33) Prayer: Give of life, and Creator God who bestows on all Your Holy Image, We are born seekers, not always sure what we are searching for but endlessly in pursuit just the same. In our ambitions and pursuits, sharpen our quests that we may strive first for Your Kingdom, Your will, Your face, so that all other strivings may find their proper balance....
by Greg | Mar 16, 2013 | Blog Posts
The Cross of Salem This cross is associated with the papacy but not to be confused with the Papal Cross. More commonly it is connected with freemasonry and the Knights Templar. There is no clear significance of the three bars other than to suggest head, crossbeam and footrest. The number three, of course, alludes to the Trinity, but can also reflect the three crosses on Calvary. “Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy.” (Matthew 5:7) Prayer: You call us to bear the cross Lord and we are confused and overwhelmed because it means so much. Guide us that we may walk mercifully so that even when we are overwhelmed we may rest and act in your mercy. In the name of the One who first showed mercy to us, Jesus the Christ....
by Greg | Mar 15, 2013 | Blog Posts
The Huguenot Cross Today the Huguenot Cross is commonly seen on jewelry, but historically it is a Christian religious symbol whose origins are in France. It is the distinctive identification of the Reformed Church of France said to have first appeared during the Huguenot wars (1562-1598). The cross combines the Maltese Cross with its eight points, symbolizing the eight Beatitudes in the Gospel of Matthew. Between each of the arms of the cross is the fleur-de-lys; and descending from the cross is the dove, symbolizing the Holy Spirit. Today this cross is the mark of descendents of Huguenots, including the DeLoach family! “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” (Matthew 5:9) Prayer: Today and everyday we are confronted with claims for us and against us. Open our eyes, most Holy God, that we may see Your claim in our life; that we may know whose we are....
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