The Orthodox pectoral cross, or as it is also called “vest,” is called upon to be an assistant in the transfer of illnesses and adversity, protecting in difficult life situations and from unkind people. That is why many crosses have the inscription “Save and preserve. For the first time, a cross is worn around the neck after the sacrament of Baptism.
Instructions
Step 1
When choosing a cross, it is important to be guided not by its beauty and material value of the product, but by the understanding that the pectoral cross is a symbol of our faith.
Step 2
All goods purchased in a church or icon shop have already passed the lighting before being sold and do not require re-consecration. But if the product was bought in a regular jewelry store, then it is imperative to consecrate the cross.
Step 3
When choosing a cross, you should pay attention to the fact that on some crosses the image of the crucifix is made according to the Catholic model. Such crosses are not subject to lighting in the Orthodox Church. The difference between the Catholic crucifixion and the Orthodox is the way in which the feet of Christ are nailed to the cross. On the Orthodox crucifixion - with two nails, and on the Catholic - with one.
Step 4
Those wishing to consecrate the cross need to visit the temple, where they can turn to the servants near the candle box, who sell candles and write down services. At your request, they will invite a priest after the service to talk about consecration.
Step 5
Lighting can be done by any priest. To do this, you should turn to him with the words: “Honest father! I ask you to consecrate my pectoral cross!
Step 6
The priest will take your cross, examine it and decide on the conformity of the canonicity of Orthodoxy. Although only the cross itself is subject to consecration, it can be transmitted by hanging on a chain or gaitan.
Step 7
After examining the cross and in accordance with its Orthodox canons, the priest brings it into the altar and will serve the order in this case.
Step 8
When the cross is consecrated by the priest, two special prayers are read. In these prayers, he makes a request to the Lord God to pour heavenly power into the cross, and so that this cross protects not only the soul, but also the body of the one who bears all the evil of the enemy, witchcraft, sorcery and other evil forces. After the prayers have been read, the priest will return the cross to you.
