Pectoral crosses (i.e. large crosses suspended over the chest/stomach area) are not strictly religious vestments. Are laity, therefore, entitled to wear a pectoral cross? I believe that this was the tradition in the early church.
2006-12-08 23:38:50 · 3 answers · asked by Anonymous in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
Any Christian symbol worn with conviction ( as opposed to a piece of jewellry) is to be commended. I don't think "entitlement" comes into it. As Christ said, "anyone who is for us, is not against us."
2006-12-08 23:46:23 · answer #1 · answered by Raymo 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Good question.
Not in my Diocese, I can tell you that. :-D As a matter of fact, they are forbidden for Priests and Deacons. Only Bishops are to wear them.
I seriously doubt our canons on this matter are the way of the ancient church. I have seen Archdeacons, Canons, Priests of all kinds wear them in the Eastern Churches...and they seem to be pretty in-touch with the "way things were and should be".
As for laity wearing them....I've never seen it done...which is not to say it's improper.
There just don't seem to be any canons that forbid it.
2006-12-09 00:10:38 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Entitled is a strong term. I mean would someone imprison you or cause you violence if you did?
Religious symbols that are worn are a reminder to bring your action or others actions to Christ. They refocus your spiritual direction during the course of the day.
2006-12-08 23:56:30 · answer #3 · answered by Lives7 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋