At 59 years old, I've reached the stage of life where I sometimes ask myself why every generation feels the need to reinvent perfectly good things.
Even language gets a makeover today. Back in the 1980s, we played records or albums, now known as "vinyls." The hair bands we used were called ponytail holders, but now they are "elastics." I could cite a dozen more examples of a modern-day change to a perfectly good thing.
It's best to just roll with it; after all, every generation has to make its mark. Still, some changes have been hard to rally behind. Pumpkin Pie, Caramel, or Pretzel M&Ms? No thank you. Sixty buttons on a TV remote seems daunting. I generally like the original song better than the remake, and I always, always like the book better than the movie.
There's a reason behind today's phrase, "OG," (which I am actually down with):
Some things became classics because they were already good enough.
As I get older, I'm even more protective of things that have stood the test of time, so when I first noticed people wearing sideways or horizontal cross jewelry, my reaction was probably the same as many others:
"What's that about, and why change the Cross?"
After all, it has represented the sacrifice of Jesus Christ for nearly 2,000 years. If there is one thing that does not need updating, wouldn't this be it?
Searching for Insights on the Horizontal Cross
The question stayed with me.
One of the many blessings of working here at The Catholic Company is that I get to see new products long before they ever make it onto our website. We don't simply add products to our site because they're popular or trendy.
We are passionate about curating collections that delight, transform, and inspire you, because we are pursuing holiness together. It's not just business - it's very personal. We are seeking to know God more deeply, and help make Him known in the world.
When I began seeing the horizontal cross appear on more contemporary Christian jewelry, I wanted to understand it before recommending it to anyone else. Sometimes a fresh perspective can be a good thing.
When we look at anything, visually or otherwise, different angles produce unique insights. A sideways or horizontal cross, as it is known in the jewelry marketplace, is another artistic presentation of the traditional Latin cross, but that's not all it is. It actually carries a moving and meaningful interpretation.
[[cross-and-miraculous-medal-ring-with-cubic-zirconia,14-kt-gold-plated-horizontal-cross-necklace]]
Why Wear a Sideways Cross?
When Christ carried His Cross to Calvary, He bore it on His shoulders. It rested horizontally. Remember His words to us in Sacred Scripture:
"Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow me." (Luke 9:23, NABRE)
The horizontal cross reminds us that Christ did not simply ask us to admire or honor His Cross from a distance. He invited us to shoulder our own, trusting that where He leads, He will give us the grace to follow.
While the sideways cross has become increasingly popular in today's jewelry, it is not intended to replace the traditional Christian cross, but to present it in a different light. It invites us to reflect on another dimension of Christian discipleship.
The vertical cross reminds us of Christ's sacrifice, helps us honor that, and points upward toward the goal we all aspire to: heaven and union with Him. The horizontal presentation becomes a visual reminder of our response to His sacrifice.
One proclaims what Jesus has done for us, and the other gently asks what we are willing to do for love of Him. Whether or not that symbolism was the original intent, I think it's a beautiful meditation.
[[gold-plated-jerusalem-cross-wraparound-ring, natural-diamond-double-sideways-cross-bracelet]]
A New Perspective on an Ancient Symbol
As a self-proclaimed lover of the classics, I won't be reaching for Pumpkin Pie or Pretzel M&Ms any time soon, but I've come to appreciate that sometimes a new perspective can deepen an ancient truth. It can help us see things more clearly, allowing a new generation - or even an older one, to rediscover it with fresh eyes and renewed appreciation.
If the symbolism speaks to you, a sideways or horizontal cross can be a beautiful conversation starter and a small reminder to take up your own cross and walk with Christ each day, especially in the difficult seasons of your life.
The sideways cross didn't change the meaning of the Cross for me, it simply reminded me that the Lord never gave us the Cross as something to admire from a distance - it was meant to be carried.
If you'd like to wear that reminder each day, explore our collection of horizontal cross jewelry.
Whether you're drawn to its symbolism or simply appreciate its distinctive design, wearing a horizontal or sideways cross can serve as a meaningful expression of faith, and a daily invitation to follow Christ and carry your own crosses with courage and hope. It also makes a thoughtful gift for someone carrying a heavy cross - a quiet reminder that they are never alone.
Read Next: Wearing the Crucifix: What We Believe
Read Next: 6 Things You Might Not Know About the Sign of the Cross
