Blessing Cross handmade double Sided
A Blessing Cross is a hand cross held by a priest or bishop in Eastern Christianity when he gives a benediction.
In our collection can be found ones made of precious metal and may be adorned with enamelwork, and precious or semi-precious gemstones.
It may also have other icons on it, such as the Theotokos (Mother of God), John the Baptist, the Four Evangelists or Prophets.
The blessing cross often has an icon of the Crucifixion of Jesus on it, together with the letters IC XC NIKA (meaning, "Jesus Christ Conquers"). Blessing crosses may also be two-sided, having an icon of the Crucifixion on one side and an icon of the Resurrection on the other. The side with the Resurrection would be held out towards the people on Sundays and throughout the afterfeast of Pascha (Easter).
The blessing cross is also used in the blessing of holy water, when the priest will dip the cross in the water, making the sign of the cross with it three times.