A crucifix is a sacred image of Jesus hanging on the cross, commonly made in wood or metal. Christian traditions use crucifixes as visual signs of Christ’s suffering and sacrifice, especially in churches and worship services connected with Lent, Holy Week, and Good Friday.
What Does a Crucifix Look Like?
A crucifix combines a cross with a corpus, a representation of Jesus’ body. The figure may be carved, cast, painted, or printed, and its pose can show his head bowed, arms extended, feet together or crossed, and a loincloth; styles differ by artist and period. A plain cross without a figure is not a crucifix. Many examples also carry a small plaque or scroll marked INRI, the traditional Latin abbreviation for “Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews.”
Which Churches Use Crucifixes?
Crucifixes are especially associated with Roman Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, Anglican or Episcopal, and Lutheran churches. Catholics commonly place one above or near the altar, on a wall, or on a stand. Orthodox churches display crucifixes as sacred images in or near the sanctuary. Many Episcopalians and Lutherans include crucifixes in services and Good Friday observances. Some other Protestant churches use them, while many Baptist, evangelical, and nondenominational churches favor an empty cross. The use of crucifixes is a widespread Christian worship practice, not a requirement shared by all Christians.
How Is a Crucifix Used in Worship?
In worship, a crucifix may stand on the altar, be carried in a procession, or be displayed during a Stations of the Cross. In that devotional practice, worshipers move from one station to another while remembering scenes from Christ’s Passion. Good Friday liturgies often give special attention to the cross. Catholics sometimes bow before or kiss a crucifix. Eastern Orthodox Christians likewise kiss or bow before these sacred images. These gestures honor Christ represented by the image rather than treating the wood or metal as an object of worship.
What Does the Crucifix Mean?
For Christians, the crucified Jesus is a central image of the gospel. Romans 1:16 in the King James Version calls the gospel “the power of God unto salvation.” A crucifix makes that message visible in a church building and may serve as a focus for prayer, especially during Lent and Holy Week. It portrays the Crucifixion rather than the Resurrection, so churches may display it alongside other symbols of Christ’s life and victory.
What Should Visitors Notice?
Visitors may notice a crucifix above the altar, beside the pulpit, in a hallway, or in a prayer room. A church may own both an empty cross and a crucifix, as explained in the difference between a cross and a crucifix. No visitor has to touch, kiss, or bow to it. If others bow or kiss the crucifix, that is their devotional practice. An usher or clergy member can explain the local custom and where the image fits into the service.