Chalice and Cross
A visual symbol that can be placed on the cover of service bulletins, within the written liturgy, or on a large screen display.
Black and white .jpeg image for download.
Description of Chalice and Cross
The cross, with its intersecting vertical and horizontal arms, is our constant reminder that in Christ heaven and earth are reconciled. Through his actions Christ restores our broken relationship and makes us whole. His suffering is represented in the arms of the cross shaped as nails. The cup, or chalice, symbolizes Christ's agony in the garden of Gethsemane as he asks, "If it is possible, let this cup pass from me". The cross rises up out of the cup as a sign of Christ's obedience, drinking the cup of death, offering us the "cup of the new covenant".
Scripture References
- Colossians 1:19-20
- Matthew 20:22a
- Matthew 26:39
- 1 Corinthians 11:25-26
Occasions for Use
- Maundy Thursday
- The Lord's Supper
The image is an original linoleum block print resulting from a printmaking process in which an image is drawn on a block of wood covered with a thin layer of linoleum, and then hand-carved to expose areas that will be white. Ink is rolled onto the block, covering the surface not cut away. Paper made from the mulberry tree is laid on top and hand rubbed with a Japanese barren or wooden spoon. In transferring the ink to the paper the resulting image is a reflection of the design placed on the block. It first appeared in the book Visuals for Worship (Faith Alive Christian Resources, 2006) which is no longer in print.
When using the image please include the following acknowledgment: “Linoleum block print by Elizabeth Steele Halstead."