Why is the crucifix more popular than the risen Jesus?

[ethereality]

I have a friend who, although half his family is Catholic, has been raised Fundamentalist Protestant. He once told me, “The entire point of the cross is that he’s not there any more.” Ignorant of Catholic theology, his point is better applied to the crucifix – isn’t it Jesus’ resurrection that gave his death meaning, just as his death is what gave the cross meaning?

I have seen one church with the big risen Jesus instead of the big crucifix, but it appears to be in the minority. What’s the deal? Protestants focus on the fact that they are saved through Jesus’ victory, but Catholics seem to focus on Jesus’ suffering and feeling guilty.

 

[Leonie_Ambrose]

ethereality,

The following link should assist you in better understanding the importance of the crucifix in Catholic spirituality and in the liturgical norms. If you have any further questions or concerns that are not answered by these links, please contact Catholic Answers directly.

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No Crucifix in my church