Orthodox Glossary · Term

Pectoral Cross

A cross worn by bishops and many priests over the chest, signifying their ordination and constant remembrance of Christ’s sacrifice.

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Defined Term
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Pectoral Cross
LexiconOrthodox Christianity 101
§ 01 - How to Study This Term

From definition into prayer.

The Orthodox tradition does not separate vocabulary from worship. Pair this term with Scripture, the Liturgy, and the lived life of the Church.

  1. 01
    Look for the word in worship

    Listen for it inside the Divine Liturgy, the daily prayers, or the hymns of the feast it belongs to.

  2. 02
    Trace it through the Fathers

    The same word usually echoes across centuries - Athanasius, the Cappadocians, Maximus, Gregory Palamas.

  3. 03
    Pair it with a prayer

    Vocabulary becomes piety when it lives inside a single, repeated prayer of the Church.

Where the term lives
§ 02 - Related Terms

Words that travel together.

Entries from the lexicon that share the same corner of Orthodox worship and thought as Pectoral Cross.

GlossaryReliquary CrossA cross containing relics of saints, worn or displayed as a tangible connection to the holy ones who intercede for the faithful.GlossaryEpimanikiaCuffs worn by bishops and priests, recalling the bonds of Christ during His Passion and symbolizing that the liturgical actions are empowered by God’s strength, not human effort.GlossaryEpitrachelionThe stole worn by priests, signifying the grace of the priesthood and the shepherd’s responsibility for souls entrusted to him.GlossaryMitraThe ornate crown worn by bishops - and by some priests with blessing - symbolizing Christ’s victory and the shepherd’s responsibility to guard the flock.GlossaryProcessional CrossA cross carried at the head of processions, announcing Christ’s victory and leading the faithful as Israel was once led by the pillar in the wilderness.GlossaryKoliva TrayThe tray on which koliva is offered in memorials, often decorated with a cross, focusing prayers for the departed on Christ’s victory over death.
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