The Story Behind The Pectoral Crosses Worn By Pope Francis

If there is one thing that has made heads turn in the Catholic world in the past few years, it is the dressing style of Pope Francis. At the age of 84, he is the head of the Catholic Church. He is also the sovereign of the Vatican City State. Whenever you see him in public, he is dressed in a white cassock and pectoral cross.

You might be wondering, what is the significance of Pectoral Crosses?


When we look at the history of the pectoral cross, the first thing you need to keep in mind is that it is worn around the neck by cardinals, bishops, or popes. The large cross that is part of the pectoral cross is meant to rest on the chest, close to the heart.




 

A look back at history


Among the first popes seen wearing a pectoral cross was Pope Leo III. He was seen wearing the pectoral cross all the way back in 811. It is believed that this cross was given to him by Nicephorus, the Patriarch of Constantinople. This cross was made of gold. 

 

The tradition of Popes wearing pectoral crosses


After Pope Leo III was seen wearing the gold cross, it became the norm for all popes to wear pectoral crosses. They were meant to be worn as a sign of their prestige and power. One thing observed over the years is that these crosses are made of gold and have jewels and precious stones adorning them.

 

Coming to Pope Francis


When we look at the cross worn by Pope Francis, we see that there are two things that set it apart. The first is that it is made out of silver. The second is that it does not have any stones or jewels. 

 

What is the reason behind this?

Pope Francis did not want to wear a gold cross because he wanted to wear the cross he already had on him. He had this cross since he was an archbishop and cardinal. A fact you should know is that the cross was a gift from a friend. He got this gift after he became the archbishop of Buenos Aires.

 

His relationship with the cross

The Pope has a special relationship with his cross. He holds onto it whenever he travels and visits the poor population within Buenos Aires. In fact, people of these areas are drawn to the cross he wears. They even kiss it to receive his blessings.

 

What you can do to solidify your own faith

If the Pope’s relationship with his cross inspires you, all you need to do is buy your own cross. You can find a variety of options available at the Nazareth Store, a Catholic Gift Shop Online. The pectoral crosses you find here will be handcrafted and sourced from the Holy Land. You can not only find pectoral crosses but also rosaries and evil eye-catchers at this store. It is a one-stop-destination for you to remain connected to your faith, so go ahead and enjoy shopping. 

 

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