Cross of Lent
Diagonal Latin Cross
This is probably the shape of the cross on which Jesus was crucified. The diagonal position is the way Jesus would have carried the cross through the streets of Jerusalem to Golgatha for his crucifixion. It is a reminder that all are to “take up the cross” and follow Jesus.
Cross of Triumph
This is a reminder of Jesus’ Directive to the apostles to “make disciples of every nation”. The Gospel is carried over the whole earth.
Anchor Cross The Anchor was a symbol carved on the walls of the catacombs where the first Christians worshiped. It is the second oldest cross symbol used by Christians. Because of persecution, the anchor was “safe” since the cross was only recognized by the Christians Jesus is called the “Anchor of the soul” in Hebrews 6:19
Inverted Latin Cross
The Church historian Eusebius, recorded that in 61 AD the apostle Peter was crucified in the city of Rome. Before his death, he asked to be crucified head down because he considered himself unworthy to suffer death in the same manner as Jesus.
Orthodox Cross
The upper cross piece is reminiscent of the sign hung above Jesus announcing him to be “King of the Jews”. The diagonal lower piece is symbolic of the two crucified beside Jesus. The upward side represents the man promised to be in Paradise with Jesus. The downward side is for the condemned man.
Jerusalem Cross
This cross was first used during the Crusades against the Turks to drive them out of Jerusalem. The perpendicular bars at the ends stand for the four Gospels and the four points of the compass.
This is a variation of the Latin cross found in graveyards of the Celts, an ancient people who lived in the British Isles. The circle, as the symbol of eternity- without end, signifies eternal life that comes through Jesus Christ.