The Significance of the Celtic Cross

Author: Ling Tong

There are many places in the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland where you will see large numbers of Celtic crosses. Many people confuse the Celtic cross with the High Cross and the Irish Memorial Cross, but it is completely different. The image of this cross is that of a conventional Latin cross with a circle connecting the stem and the arms. One usually associates this as a symbol of the Irish missionaries, but since they are found in England, Scotland and Wales as well as Ireland, it is really seen as a symbol of early Christianity. During the Dark Ages all of these locations did have contact with Ireland.

 

No one knows for sure how the cross came to be or what it really symbolizes. Some scientists have suggested that the ring inside the cross represents the halo of Christ and others believe it has its roots in the pagan religions of the Celts and Druids who worshipped the Sun. The crosses were erected in sacred places and were used to declare adherence to the beliefs of Christianity. Still other interpretations of the cross see the straight lines representing man and the circle representing woman. This is because a similar symbol exists in Hindu tradition representing the union of man and woman.

 

The early churches were very small, and since there was always a cross in the churchyard, religious celebrations often took place with the people gathered around the cross. Based on the location of these crosses, though, not all of them were erected for religious purposes. Some may have been landmarks to show the way for travelers on foot and others may have been used as landmarks for those at sea either telling them that an area was safe for landing or to denote dangerous areas around the shoreline.

 

There are examples of this cross that date back 5000 years or more. According to legends, St. Columba introduced this cross to Ireland and others say that St. Patrick drew the circle in the cross to show a connection between the pagan religion and Christianity. The first crosses were on large rocks that laid flat on the ground. The four arms of the cross could also denote the four points of the compass.

 

The cross was decorated with carved designs and intricate geometric shapes. Free-standing crosses were very elaborate and were often made from four pieces of stone – the base, the shaft, the head and the upper cross arm – all of which were held together with mortar.

 

Celtic jewelry, displaying the cross, began to be made in Ireland in the mid-1800’s. Many people wore this jewelry as a symbol of their faith. They were also being placed in cemeteries and churches all over the United Kingdom by 1890. Today, they rarely have any religious significance as they are worn for their beauty. The Celtic symbol of the cross is also used to denote ancestry as being from the Celtic countries. Whatever the original, it is clear that these early crosses were the work of highly trained craftsmen.

About the Author:

For lots of information on Celtic Cross stitch,the significance of the Celtic Cross and where to find Celtic Crosses visit http://www.MyCelticCrossStitch.com

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com – The Significance of the Celtic Cross

Cross Stitch Kit $11.95 Cross Stitch Kit

100 Cross Stitch Paterns $14.88 100 Cross Stitch Paterns

Beautiful Cross Stitch Blooms $5.99 Beautiful Cross Stitch Blooms

Decorative Cross Stitch $9.91 Decorative Cross Stitch

Cross Country $30.99 Cross Country

Ancient Egyptian Cross Stitch $13.03 Capture the Mystery of Egypt with Stunning Cross Stitch Projects

Cross Stitch $16.29 Author Dorothy Wood follows the history of cross stitch throughout Asia, Europe, and the Americas, and then amasses 150 highly original, decorative projects. Beginning with the rich motifs of the Celtic and Medieval eras, the book then moves on to the more formal cross stitch styles reminiscent of Victorian England. In the Folk Art section the simple patterns of the Shakers are juxtaposed with the bright ethnic designs of South America, Eastern Europe and Asia, while the Contemporary section highlights the bold modern motifs of the late twentieth century.

The Big Book of Cross-stitch Design $13.01 The Big Book of Cross-stitch Design

Rug-Making and Designing in Cross-Stitch $26.45 Rug-Making and Designing in Cross-Stitch

Quick to Stitch Cross Stitch Keepsakes $13.03 With Quick-to-Stitch Cross Stitch Keepsakes, readers will be able to create one-of-a-kind gifts and keepsakes that commemorate all of the most important occasions in life. Seven themed chapters feature 100 perfect present ideas and 20 miniature sampler designs that are quick to stitch but yet make a big impact. The author offers over 1,000 universal motifs that can be mixed and matched into unique designs and the addition of decorative alphabets can be used to further personalize projects.

Cross Stitch Motif Bible $19.55 - 1,000 versatile cross stitch motifs- Step-by-step instructions for basic techniques and materials- Lay-flat spiral-bound format

Fantasy Cross Stitch $13.03 In Lesley Teares Fantasy Cross Stitch, readers will enter a world filled with intoxicating sorceresses, fairytale dragons, mythical unicorns and beautiful butterfly fairies, all intricately recreated in cross stitch. Lesleys versatile designs can be transformed into a range of projects including framed pictures, cards, cushions, notebook covers and more. Her clear instructions and full-color charts along with striking photographs create vivid images guaranteed to transport cross stitch artists into a fabulous world of fantasy.

Cross Stitch Cards 100 $15.24 Cross Stitch Cards 100 is a fabulous collection of 100 cross stitch card designs celebrating every occasion, from christening and Christmas to Motheras Day and moving home. Each chapter showcases eight beautifully stitched themed cards, each with complete stitching instructions, a wealth of inspirational embellishment ideas and clear color charts to work from. Joanne not only offers a collection of adorable cross stitch designs, she also provides papercrafting secrets that will help you create simple cards that make a big impression.

Cross Stitch Cuties $13.03 Cross Stitch Cuties has a wonderful collection of over 30 adorable designs from highly respected cross stitch designers. The designs range from wide-eyed toddlers to mischievous kittens. There is an irresistible project for every occasion, including births, weddings and Christmas! A range of project ideas for adapting the designs, from beautiful framed pictures and greeting cards to gorgeous drawstring bags are also included. Finally, the easy-to-follow color charts and charming color photographs are a bonus for any cross stitch lover!

Cross Stitch Art Nouveau $15.24 Cross Stitch Art Nouveau revisits the timelessly popular Art Nouveau style with a fantastic new collection of cross stitch designs inspired by the periodas most instantly recognisable artists. Each of the ten chapters features designs inspired by the work of a well-known Art Nouveau designer translated beautifully into cross stitch. Projects include framed pictures, cushions, bags and even a table runner.

Crafting Cross Stitch Cards $18.99 * Greeting cards are a popular project for cross-stitching enthusiasts* This creative guide bridges the gap between cardmaking and cross stitch, two perennially popular craftsFor crafters who like to create personalized greetings, and for cross stitchers who like to bring their art to cardmaking, comes Sue Cook’s Cross Stitch Cards and Keepsakes, a collection of over 200 charted designs for a range of holidays and celebrations–from new babies and bon voyage parties, to age-specific birthdays, to the 4th of July and Thanksgiving. Readers will also learn how to add embellishments to their works–enhancing already beautiful quick-to-stitch cards or tags, or meaningful photo albums, ring pillows, or gift bags.

Donna Kooler’s 555 Cross-Stitch Sampler Motifs $16.54 Donna Kooler’s 555 Cross-Stitch Sampler Motifs

Jane Netley Mayhews Cross Stitch Safari $13.25 Richly Detailed Wildlife Cross Stitch Designs

Easy Cross-stitch Pattern-a-day 2011 Calendar $9.77 Easy Cross-stitch Pattern-a-day 2011 Calendar

Cross Stitch by the Sea $14.99 You will almost be able to feel the sand between your toes with the evocative designs presented in Cross Stitch by the Sea. Over 35 inspirational pieces for cross stich capture a wide assortment of seaside memories, including sea life, sand castles, tropical island getaways and more. Project ideas for using the designs range from framed pictures, beach bags and pillows to smaller quick-to-stitch coasters and cards. Simple stitching advice and clear instructions accompany each project along with clear, full-color charts and stunning photography for each cross stitch design.

Subversive Cross-Stitch $9.66 In this wicked little book, Jackson reinvents the age-old craft of cross-stitch, finally putting an end to all that saccharine sentimentalism and giving modern stitchers the chance to say what’s really on their minds. Includes 33 patterns.

Cross Stitch Myth & Magic $13.25 This unique collection of fables and legends from around the world contains over 70 magical cross stitch designs by nine talented artists. Stitchers will be thrilled by the amazingly detailed Chinese dragon, good fortune emblems and signs of the zodiac. They’ll also find cherubs, angels, and –from the world of myth–Merlin and an enchanting unicorn. Each project includes easy-to-fallow instructions and full-color cross stitch charts, perfect for both beginning and experienced stitchers.

Naughty But Nice Cross Stitch $13.99 Naughty But Nice Cross Stitch features a collection of 50 fun and sassy cross stitch sayings to remind you not to take life so seriously. Each themed chapter presents the ideal answer to the endless demands on a womanas time – husbands, chores, children and work. Whatever the crisis, these witticisms are sure to put a smile on your face! A great selection of project ideas accompany the sayings, from hanging signs to framed pictures and cards so that you can share the fun with family and friends.

In Person/Cross-Country Concer $12.99 In Person/Cross-Country Concer

Roxy cross country bag $25.99 Roxy cross country bag

The Cross-Country Race $43 The Cross-Country Race

Cross Country with Horse and Hound $33.99 Cross Country with Horse and Hound

Cross Country Reminiscences $22.97 Cross Country Reminiscences

---

Bucilla 42978 Counted Cross-Stitch Kit, Rooster $16.26 This striking rooster has an olive a fleur dis lis border….

Gingerbread Cottage – Cross Stitch Pattern Model stitched on 28 Ct. Natural Pearl Linen with DMC floss and Crescent Colours (Poblano Pepper, Blushing Beauty). Finished size is approximately 8″ x 6″….

Beatrix Potter Jemima Puddle-Duck Birth Sampler Cross Stitch Pattern $8.49 …

Hind Motion Sensor Bra Fabric Content: Drylete (body) – 84% CoolMax/16% Spandex Sorbtek (liner) – 96% polyester/4% spandex…

Dragon Victor Stitch Beanie $23.95 If you want the hand-knit beanie look without all the hippie crap that comes with it, get the Dragon Victor Stitch Beanie. There are no peace signs or patchouli oils here, just a warm, knit winter hat to put on your head while you shred.Product FeaturesMaterial: 100% AcrylicRecommended Use: Winter wear…

A Cross Stitch Christmas: Handmade Treasures (Better Homes and Gardens) $2.20 Filled with ninety-nine projects that appeal to stitchers with a wide variety of interests, a collection of timeless designs includes all levels of difficulty and features the Cross Stitch and Country Crafts Mark of Excellence seal….

Charted Folk Designs for Cross-Stitch Embroidery: 278 Charts of Ancient Folk Embroideries from the Countries Along the Danube (Dover Needlework) $7.95 …

101 Best-Loved Designs from Cross Stitch & Country Crafts $18.50 …

---

Stately Rooster Needlepoint Kit $29.99 Add some country style to your decor with this stately rooster needlepoint kitCross stitch kit helps you create a masterpieceFinished size of needlework kit is 16 inches wide x 12 inches long

Wonderart Country Barn Latch Hook Needlework Kit $47.49 Create a colorful work of art with this Wonderart latch hook needlework kitNeedlework kit features a charming country scene with a red barnCraft set includes pre-cut rug yarn, easy-to-follow illustrated instructions and complete chart

Wonderart Country Cottages Latch Hook Needlework Kit $21.99 Create a colorful work of art with this Wonderart latch hook needlework kitNeedlework kit features a charming country town scene with cottagesCraft set includes pre-cut rug yarn, easy-to-follow illustrated instructions and complete chart

Aunt Martha’s 50 State Quilt Transfer Pattern $8.09 Aunt Martha’s ‘Americana Quilt’ transfer pattern will get you off to a great start on your next projectNeedlework kit includes transfers for all 50 states in the shape of a hexagonUse templates to cross stitch designs on your next quilt

Cotton ‘Distant Lands’ Key Chains (Thailand) $18.49 Handmade key chain is a great original accessory to complement your lookKeyring features cross-stitched patterns of the Akha hill tribesStainless steel key ring with heart-shaped adornment and tassel with colorful beads and aluminum bells

---