Easter is one of the most important Christian holidays, commemorating the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Many call it the holiest day of the year. It is a time of great religious significance and is celebrated by Christians around the world. One of the most recognizable symbols of Easter, and Christianity generally, is the cross: a powerful symbol of the sacrifice Jesus made of His life for humanity. In the centuries since that world-changing event, some Christians have worn crosses, and church attendance is highest on Easter.
What is the Cross?
Jesus Christ was crucified on a cross according to the Roman method of His day. In our day, it serves as a reminder of the love and compassion that Jesus had for all people because of the ultimate sacrifice that he made for us. The cross is a symbol of hope, love, and forgiveness, and it is the most recognizable symbol of Christianity worldwide.
The Origin of Wearing Crosses at Easter
The tradition of wearing crosses at Easter dates back to the early days of Christianity. According to historical records, the first crosses were worn by Christians in the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD. It was a way for Christians to identify themselves to one another, especially during times and in places where Christians were being persecuted for their beliefs.
The practice of wearing crosses at Easter became more widespread during the 4th century when Christianity became the official religion of the Roman Empire. The cross was used as a symbol of victory over death, and it was seen as a powerful symbol of hope and salvation.
The Contemporary Practice of Wearing Crosses at Easter
Today, the practice of wearing crosses at Easter is still very common among Christians. It is a way to express one's faith and to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Many people wear crosses on necklaces, bracelets, or as lapel pins, and some even choose to have tattoos of crosses on their bodies.
Christians can still identify each other by the cross, and in some places it is still dangerous to be a Christian. But most Christians who wear crosses now do so as a personal reminder of their relationship with Jesus Christ.
The Types of Crosses Worn at Easter
There are several types of crosses that are worn at Easter and other times, each with its own nuanced meaning and significance. The most common type of cross worn at Easter is often simply called “the cross” or sometimes “the Latin cross” and follows this shape: †
Other types of crosses include the Celtic cross, which has a circle around the intersection of the cross, and other crosses including, but not limited to, these shapes:
🞡 ✠ ♰ ♱ ☩ ☦ ☨🕂🕆 🕈
Popularity of Cross-wearing at Easter
The history of wearing crosses at Easter is a rich and meaningful tradition in Christianity. The cross is a powerful symbol of the sacrifice that Jesus made for humanity, and it serves as a reminder of the love and compassion that he had for all people. Today, the practice of wearing crosses at Easter is still very common, and it remains an important way for Christians to express their faith and to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
FAQs
1. Is wearing a cross mandatory for Christians at Easter?
No, wearing a cross is not mandatory for Christians at Easter. It is a personal choice and a way for Christians to express their faith.
2. Can non-Christians wear crosses at Easter?
Yes, anyone can wear a cross at Easter. It is a symbol of hope and love, and it can be worn by anyone who wants to express those values.
3. Is there a specific color of cross that should be worn at Easter?
There is no universally prescribed cross to wear at Easter, but some sects of Christianity tend to favor a specific design. If you are attending the services of a specific denomination, you may want to ask a member of the congregation. But hopefully you will be welcomed with or without any specific cross design.
4. What is the significance of the Celtic cross?
The Celtic cross is a symbol of the unification of faith and culture. It represents the coming together of the ancient traditions with Christian doctrines under Christianity in Ireland.
5. Where can I buy a cross to wear?
There are many jewelers and religious artifact vendors all over the world and on the internet. This blog post is hosted by Elements of Grace™, which sells Christian Jewelry of many types, including pendants of the holy cross (✝).