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In many aspects of Ethiopian life, no other symbol is as dominant as the cross. An important aspect of Ethiopian culture, crosses are used in numerous ceremonies, performances, and festivals, including the annual Timkat celebration. Some of the more prominent crosses include the Processional Cross, the Hand Cross, and the Pectoral Cross.

The Processional Cross is the largest and arguably the most elaborate Ethiopian cross. Once held above the heads of the crowds in church processions, this cross was made of brass, silver, wood, and occasionally gold. There was no limit to the imagination of the artisans who created Processional Crosses, which could be round, diamond or pear shaped, gilded, or inscribed; and they often bore a picture of the Virgin Mary.

The Priests' Cross, also called the Hand Cross, was much smaller and less elaborate than the Processional Cross. Made of silver, iron, or wood, the priests would hold the this cross in their hand or tie it to a string and wear it around their neck while blessing members of the congregation. Because it was not common practice to decorate a Priests' Cross, the name of the owner was often the only mark upon it.

The Pectoral Cross, also called the Neck Cross, was much smaller than both the Processional and the Priests' Cross. These crosses, secured by a blue string or cord, adorned the necks of the faithful. Many people received their Pectoral Cross at baptism. Made from silver, iron, horn, and occasionally gold, Pectoral Crosses were often functional, serving as everything from lockets to earwax extractors. As with the Processional Cross, the sky is the limit when it came to shape and decoration.

Compiled by Nancy Redd

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