The most important of Catholic emblems, symbolizing the Church's holy faith and the redemption of mankind, because Jesus Christ, Our Redeemer, died on a cross. It is used on Catholic churches, schools, institutions, altars, vestments, etc., to indicate that they are consecrated to God's service; and, when blessed, either as a cross or a crucifix, it becomes a sacramental. Crosses were used among many nations for the execution of criminals; but nevertheless in certain regions they were held in religious honor because of their symbolism. The swastika was emblematic of the revolutions of the sun and consequently of life; and the Egyptian crux ansata (cross with a handle) was a symbol of the reproductive powers of Nature. There are many varieties of crosses including,
This dictionary contains not only definitions and explanations of every subject in Religion, Scripture, tradition, doctrine, morals, sacraments, rites, customs, devotions and symbolism, but also accounts of the Church in every continent, country, diocese; missions, notable Catholic centers, cities, and places with religious names; religious orders, church societies, sects and false religions. It has brief articles also on historical events and personages, on the Old Testament and New, and on popes, prelates, priests, men and women of distinction, showing what the Church has done for civilization and correcting many errors which have hitherto passed for history.Wikipedia
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