Jerusalem Cross

I designed this Chrismon in memory of our trip to Israel last year in September. It was an incredible experience to walk where Jesus might have walked and many of his disciples. Of course I have blogged daily on this trip. If you would like to read about it, click on the tap to my main blog and then Travel!

 The Jerusalem Cross is known since the 11th century when the crusaders captured the city and made it its emblem.

This cross consists of a cross potent (or crutch cross) with a bar on each end. And one smaller greek cross with equal length arms in each quadrant.

There are several explanations found for this cross. — The large cross symbolizes Christ and the four smaller crosses the four Gospels. — Another belief is that the smaller crosses symbolize the four corners of the earth Jesus wanted his message carried to. — Another suggests the five-fold cross reminds us of the Five Wounds of Christ with the four smaller crosses symbolizing the four wounds on Jesus’ hands and feet and the larger cross his pierced heart.

At Jesus’ time there was only one temple in all of Israel to worship God and it was in Jerusalem. Synagogues were houses of assembly to learn and study. Jews were required to travel to the temple in Jerusalem once a year to worship.

“Now every year his parents went to Jerusalem for the festival of the Passover. And when he was twelve years old, they went up as usual for the festival.” (Luke 2:41-42)

*  *  *  *  *

And here is the PDF "Jerusalem Cross" for you to download.

Please do not sell the patterns or the ornaments. If you give them as gifts, please always include the explanation of the symbol.
I would love to hear from all who are using my patterns. It would be nice to know that my efforts are not in vain. You find my email address on the pattern if you have any question about it. Happy to help.