Worship Note: The Processional Crucifix

               Throughout the Easter season, Good Shepherd will make use of our processional crucifix.  The processional crucifix is hardly an innovation within the Christian Church.  Its origin comes from the standard bearers in the Roman army.  These would be poles with the colors of the regiment on them, and on the top would be the eagle which was the symbol of Rome and her emperor.  The purpose of these signs would be to help the soldiers identify where their regiment was in the heat of battle.  Christians took this custom into their services.  Rather than the sign of the emperor, they put the sign of their king on top – Jesus on the cross.

               By the 4^th century, bishops came to lead the service, often having more than one congregation at which they officiated.  At these congregations, it was often standing room only, so it was almost impossible for some in the church to see the bishop.  The processional crucifix was held above the congregation so that all people could see it.  The standard bearer led the bishop into the building, with the processional crucifix showing the people where the bishop was.  After the bishop put on his vestments at the rear of the church, he would proceed to the front.  The processional crucifix would mark the bishop’s way to the front of the church.  The people, facing the back of the church to begin with, turned to follow the crucifix as it made its way to the front.  Some chose to bow as it passed to demonstrate reverence for Christ.

               The procession was led by acolytes who were bearing candles.  Originally, they served a practical purpose of moving people out of the way (for no one wanted to get burned).  The candles make us mindful that Jesus Christ is the Light of the world.  Following the acolytes was the crucifer, that is, the one who carries the processional crucifix.  Sometimes a person carried in the Bible for the pulpit or lectern.  Finally, all the ministers entered, with the presiding minister being the last in.  These are the historical roots of the processional crucifix.  Thus, it came to represent Christ and the one through whom Christ speaks and acts on our behalf.

               All ceremonies are designed to teach and proclaim.  The processional crucifix proclaims that, “We preach Christ crucified” (1 Corinthians 1:23).  The crucifix reminds us that it was Jesus’ blood and death which paid for all of our sins.  Even in a festive service such as Christmas or Easter, we remember that Jesus Christ is the sacrifice which has paid for our sins.  This does not deny that Jesus is also our risen Savior; but you don’t have the one without the other. 

               At the conclusion of the service, the crucifix may be carried out in a recessional.  Again, the congregation turns to the crucifix as it departs.  After the crucifix passes by the row, each worshiper turns again to face the altar and, upon completion of the final hymn, also departs.

               Good Shepherd will employ the processional crucifix throughout the Sundays of Easter, on Pentecost, and Holy Trinity.  On the Sundays when we do not have a procession, the crucifix remains at the side of the altar.