Disciples Cross (large)

3" x 1 3/4" - comes with a 30" black cord

On the back of the cross is "Disciples Cross - Sherridan Smith" with the scripture: "Follow me. - John 21:19".  This is an original design.

The front is a story-telling Celtic cross using only symbols.  The ring shows the Apostles.   Beginning in the lower left of the ring and going clockwise are the following symbols:

    Peter - crossed keys with an upside-down cross

    James (the greater) - three scallop shells

    John - the eagle

    Andrew - the cross saltire

    Philip - a cross with two loaves of bread

    Bartholomew - three flaying knives

    Thomas - a spear behind a carpenter square

    James (the lesser) - a saw

    Matthew - three purses

    Jude (Thaddeus / Lebbaeus) - a knotted club

    Simon - a fish on a Bible (a fisher of men)

    Matthias (took Judas' place) - a Bible with a two headed ax

On the cross are the following symbols:

    Top:

    Paul - a sword behind a Bible (Spiritus Gladius)

    At the ends:

    Mark - the winged lion 

    Luke - the winged ox

    Coming down the long arm of the cross:

    Catherine of Siena - a heart with a  cross in it

    Cutherbert - a simple cross alisee patee

    Mary of Bethany - and urn (symbol of reception)

    Martin Luther - the Lutheran Rose

    Stephen - a robe with three stones

At the crossing is a Celtic triskale with the Hand of God in the top compartment, a dove (Holy Spirit) in the right one and the head of Christ in the left one.  In the center is an icthus representing the person wearing the cross.  On each side of the top of the triskale is a gazalle for Tabitha (Dorcas).  Under the triskale is an alabaster ointment jar for Mary Magdalene.

Many of the symbols have to do with the martyrdom of the person represented such as the robe and stones for Stephen.  Others have to do with an item that became associated with that person's life.  The history of our faith began with the life, death and resurrection of Jesus, and it has continued with people giving their lives as martyrs or giving their lives as examples to the world.  The Good News is why we can respond in a positive way when Christ says: "Follow me."