Wearing the Cross

When a man chooses a cross to wear upon his body, he does well to do so prayerfully and with theological intention.

1. The Crucifix and the Catholic Faith

For most Anglican Catholics, the crucifix is the natural and proper choice.

The crucifix places before the eyes—and therefore before the heart—the saving death of Our Lord Jesus Christ. It refuses to spiritualise redemption or detach glory from sacrifice. In the Body broken and Blood poured out, we see not merely a past event, but the same self-offering made present upon the altar in the Holy Eucharist.

To wear a crucifix is to confess that salvation comes through the Cross, not around it. It is a quiet protest against sentimentality and triumphalism alike, and a continual reminder that Christian manhood is cruciform.

A plain cross may still be worn in good conscience, particularly where discretion is required, but it should be chosen knowingly, not by default.

2. Material as Theology

The Church has never regarded matter as spiritually neutral. What we touch, wear, and use can either dull or sharpen our devotion.

• Silver has long been favoured for sacramentals. It is noble without ostentation and ages with grace, acquiring a patina that speaks of time, use, and fidelity.
• Gold has ancient associations with kingship, sanctity, and the worship of heaven. A gold cross may speak eloquently of Christ the King, though it requires humility of spirit from the wearer.
• Wood recalls the Tree of Calvary and is often chosen by those drawn to a more ascetical or penitential spirituality.
• Iron, steel, titanium, or tungsten evokes endurance, discipline, and resolve—virtues much needed in an age of softness and distraction.

The worth of a cross is not measured by its price, but by its ability to draw the soul Godward.

3. Proportion and Reserve

Anglo-Catholic devotion has always prized dignity and restraint. The same principle applies here.

A cross should be large enough to be discernible, but not so large as to draw attention to the self. It is not a badge of superiority, nor a provocation, but a confession. Simpler designs—especially those rooted in historic forms—tend to endure both practically and spiritually.

A well-chosen cross should look at home at Mass, at work, and at prayer.

4. How It Is Worn

Whether worn on a chain or a cord, the cross should be secure, comfortable, and suited to daily life.

A metal chain is traditional, durable, and fitting for both laymen and clergy. A leather or cord necklace may appeal to those who value simplicity or penitential symbolism, though such materials require more frequent replacement.

Whatever is chosen should support, not distract from, recollection and prayer.

5. A Sacramental Discipline

A cross worn daily inevitably shapes the soul.

Many Anglo-Catholics rightly ask a priest to bless their cross, setting it apart as a sacramental—a holy sign that disposes the wearer to grace and calls him to holiness of life. Once blessed and worn, it becomes part of a personal discipline, a silent summons to integrity, chastity, courage, and charity.

When temptation arises, the cross presses against the chest. When fear intrudes, it rests upon the heart. When prayer falters, it remains.

Conclusion

To wear a cross is to place oneself under judgment and mercy alike. It declares that one belongs to Christ crucified, and therefore to His Church. Chosen with care and worn with reverence, a cross becomes not merely an object, but a companion in the Christian life—a daily reminder that we are not our own.

“And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.” (St John 12:32)