Each cross is carved individually from a unique piece of beautifully grained olive wood. This wood is pruned from the olive trees around Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus. Christians have been carving crosses like this for hundreds of years, originally for pilgrims and more recently for tourists visiting the Holy Land. Each craftsman is a Christian living in Bethlehem who receives a fair price to support their family. Praying with a holding cross can be a comfort during centering prayer, a helpful presence during lectio divina, and a faithful reminder of God's presence during the prayer of examen. A holding cross is also sometimes called a pocket cross, comfort cross, or caring cross. These small crosses are designed to fit comfortably into the palm of your hand as a tactile aid to prayer. Use it as a spiritual companion for easing children's fears, to comfort the worry and stress of adults, and to focus the prayer of the sick and elderly. DIMENSIONS Small Holding Cross: 2.5 x 1.5 x 0.4 inchesMedium Holding Cross: 3.75 x 1.75 x 0.5 inches
