The Catholic Crucifix - The symbolic representation of faith

The Catholic Crucifix represents the ultimate symbol of Catholic religious belief. It stands for an integral part of the Catholic worship. The Catholic crucifix is a symbolic representation of Christ the Redeemer.

A crucifix is generally referred to a cross that is embedded with the image of Jesus. Going by this explanation we could say that all crucifixes are Catholic crucifixes. However this is not true. The Catholic crucifix has been developed in a unique style. In this style the rear of the crucifix bears a simple traditional design that is usually called the ‘Christian Cross’. A very detailed image of Christ is placed on this cross. If the cross is metal the image may be of wood while wooden crosses have metallic images fixed on them.

The Crucifix represents an important religious belief for Catholics. Catholics believe that they have been saved by taking part in the suffering of Christ on the Cross contrary to the belief amongst Protestants that Catholics have been saved by Christ’s sacrifice with no need of taking part in the actual sacrifice. Catholics take part in that suffering in many ways like penance, acts of compassion and being physically present at the Eucharistic celebration itself.

The Catholic Crucifix stands for this participatory view of redemption. Catholics follow several forms of holiness including the cross where they actually re-experience the suffering and pain and death of Jesus as a manner of being a part of the sacrifice. The Crucifix is an effective way that the Catholics believe to visualize the sacrifice of Christ very clearly so that they would be able to meditate on the death of Christ.

The crucifix is vividly seen over the altar in any Catholic Church. It serves as a visual representation of sacrifice that Christ made for the people that led to the ultimate redemption of mankind.

The Catholic Crucifix has over the years become a symbol of art as well as jewelry. Wearing the Catholic Crucifix helps Catholics to make a proud proclamation of their love and faith in Christ the Redeemer.