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....
by Greg | Mar 14, 2013 | Blog Posts
The Maltese Cross The Maltese cross, also known as the Amalfi cross is the cross symbol associated with the of Malta and by extension with the island of Malta. Its design is based on crosses used since the First Crusade. It is also the modern symbol of Amalfi, a small Italian republic of the 11th century. Many cross symbols, like the Maltese Cross, are adapted to represent political causes or domains, inadvertently distancing from religious origins. “For I am not ashamed of the gospel; it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who has faith…” (Romans 1:16) “At the cross, at the cross, where I first saw the light, And the burden of my heart rolled away, It was there by faith I received my sight, And now I am happy all the day.” (Isaac Watts) Prayer: At Your cross, may we find what we are looking for, that our lives may be marked here on earth and also in heaven....
by Greg | Mar 13, 2013 | Blog Posts
The Budded Cross The Budded Cross is also known at the Apostles Cross, the Treflee, or the Cathedral Cross. While there are many variations of this cross, the most common has three circles at the end of each arm representing the trinity. It is thought this design was taken from earlier Celtic Druidry, where the circles symbolize the three dominions of earth, sky and sea. “What sort of man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey him?” (Matthew 8:27) Prayer: The sun and moon; The morning mist and afternoon breeze and nighttime sky; The earth and all that is in it are Your gifts Creator God. When we see may we say thanks for these and all Your many gifts....
by Greg | Mar 12, 2013 | Blog Posts
The Staurogram Cross In the early centuries of Christianity monograms were used to refer to Jesus including the Chi-Rho Cross and the Christ the Victor Cross. The Staurogram Cross is one such monogram. Staurogram literally means “cross monogram.” This cross is also called the Tau-Rho Cross because it is shaped like the Greek letters tau symbolizing the cross and rho recalling Jesus as Messiah. It has also come to symbolize the cross saves, and by the fifth and sixth century the symbol could be found all over Western Europe. “…but we proclaim Christ crucified, a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles, but to those who are the called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.” (1 Corinthians 1:23-24) Prayer: In the beginning God You named us and claimed us in Your image. May we who bear Your name reflect Your holy image in our words, actions and relationships, that all others see Your name and Your claim. It is our hope and now we make it our prayer....
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