The crucifix on the altar recalls Christ's death, which the Mass really, though mystically, renews. During Mass the priest often bows to, the cross, expressing adoration, prayer in the name of Christ crucified, and hope in His merits. The latter two meanings, besides a reference to the Trinity, are expressed in frequent signs of the cross which the priest makes over himself and over the oblations during Mass.
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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