Crosses and Crucifixes
 

 The cross is the most important symbol for Christians.

Both on the outside and the inside of a church you will nearly always find a cross - often several. 

The poster advertising the Easter Services at this church shows three crosses. Jesus was crucified on Good Friday alongside two criminals.

 
 You can find the story in Luke's Gospel,
chapter 23 verses 32-33.

Inside the same church there is a simple wooden cross on a plain brick wall.

Compare this cross to the one on the right.

The cross on the right has a figure of Jesus on it.

A cross like this is called a crucifix.

Notice how the size of the cross has been exaggerated
(made bigger) compared to the size of Jesus.

In these two churches artists have used the cross in modern lighting
and a stained-glass window.

- - - - - - - - - -

You could visit a church and see how many crosses you can find inside and outside. You might take photos and make a display.

In a popular hymn Christians sing about the death of Jesus on the cross:

Come see His hands
And His feet,
The scars that speak of sacrifice,
Hands that flung stars
Into space
To cruel nails
Surrendered. 
The Servant King, Graham Kendrick*

You could write a poem about how Jesus died.

Or use wood or clay or any other material to make an original cross.

 Back to Explore a church

* Copyright © Thankyou Music, P.O. Box 75. Eastbourne, East Sussex BN23 6NW, UK