Currently, pectoral crosses are sold not only in Orthodox churches, but also in jewelry stores. For some believers, the question may arise about the advisability of purchasing a crucifix in jewelry stores.
Answering the question whether Orthodox people are allowed to purchase pectoral crosses in jewelry stores, it is necessary to understand that there is no canonical indication to prohibit such purchases. However, a believer often makes such an important purchase for himself in the temple. This is due to several aspects.
The pectoral cross is a sacred thing for a believer. It is important that the crucifixion be sanctified. In Orthodox churches, pectoral crosses are consecrated before being sold. Therefore, from this position in the House of God, the pectoral cross acquired by a person is already a sanctified shrine, and not just a holy image of the crucifixion of Christ.
The second important point is that in a church a believer can acquire an Orthodox cross. For people who are not aware of the differences between Orthodox, Catholic and other crosses, there is a mistake in acquiring a body crucifix in a jewelry store, which does not correspond to the Christian Orthodox tradition.
It is worth noting that these two main and important points in choosing a place to buy a pectoral cross do not categorically speak about the prohibition of purchasing a crucifix in a jewelry store. Not every Orthodox church is rich in a choice of crosses (although the high cost and outward beauty of a crucifix is not the very purpose of acquiring it). A believer may like a particular cross in a jewelry store. For example, a gold or silver symbol of the salvation of mankind. In this case, a person can purchase a cross in a jewelry store. But in this situation, it is necessary to have an idea of which cross is considered Orthodox.
On the Orthodox cross, each of the Savior's feet is nailed (for the Catholic one, one nail is used for both feet). In addition, on the back of an Orthodox cross there must be an inscription "save and preserve" or some kind of Orthodox prayer. There should also be an abbreviation that Jesus Christ is depicted on the cross. There may be abbreviations IH ЦI (Jesus of Nazareth the King of the Jews), as well as the inscriptions NIKA (means Jesus Christ conquers), the Son of God, the King of glory. In this case, the cross can be either eight-pointed or eight-pointed. In general, it is advisable to make such a purchase with a person who can tell you which cross is Orthodox.
The next step after purchasing a pectoral cross in a jewelry store should be the obligatory consecration of the crucifix in an Orthodox church.
When purchasing a pectoral cross, a believer should be clearly aware that this is not just a beautiful piece of jewelry or "amulet". The cross is a shrine for a Christian, a symbol of human salvation and the victory of the Lord Jesus Christ over death.
