If you are a baptized person or are just going to be baptized, you must wear a pectoral cross. But before putting it on, the cross should be consecrated in the church. You can buy it in a secular jewelry store or in any church shop. By the way, in churches, churches and chapels, crosses are sold already consecrated.
Instructions
Step 1
Choose an Orthodox Church. All churches are open to believers from morning until late at night on any day of the week. You can consecrate the cross (and other things) at any time.
Step 2
If your cross is similar to others, in the case when several objects will be consecrated at the same time, mark it by tying, for example, a bright ribbon. The pectoral cross can be passed for consecration together with a chain. It is important that the pectoral cross you choose is of an Orthodox pattern. An object that does not correspond to the canons will not be taken for consecration.
Step 3
Talk to a priest or any church worker before worship. Explain what you need. The cross will be passed over to the altar. Any priest or bishop on duty at that time has the right to consecrate the pectoral cross.
Step 4
Pay the consecration fee. If it is not provided, donate any amount for the needs of the church or the construction of the temple in a box near the candle shop.
Step 5
At the altar, the priest or priest will read special prayers, asking God to consecrate your cross. During prayer, the object will be sprinkled with holy water crosswise.
Step 6
If you are giving an unconsecrated pectoral cross for a baptismal ceremony, do not forget to inform the minister of the church about this in advance. The object will be illuminated directly during the baptism, dipped into a font with holy water.
Step 7
After the ceremony of consecration, the priest will take out the tray with the cross from the altar and give it to you, immediately put the cross around your neck. All Orthodox Christians should be in the church only with a cross on.
Step 8
Go to the priest, bow and thank him for his service and ask for a blessing.
Step 9
The pectoral cross for every Orthodox Christian is the main symbol of faith, a holy sign of the existence of Jesus Christ. Treat the consecrated cross with care. Try not to take it off, even in the most unforeseen situations.
