Pope Benedict recently spoke in Cypress regarding the importance of the Cross in earthly matters. The Holy Father noted that...
"[T]he world needs the Cross. The Cross is not just a private symbol of devotion, it is not just a badge of membership of a certain group within society, and in its deepest meaning it has nothing to do with the imposition of a creed or a philosophy by force. It speaks of hope, it speaks of love, it speaks of the victory of non-violence over oppression, it speaks of God raising up the lowly, empowering the weak, conquering division, and overcoming hatred with love. A world without the Cross would be a world without hope, a world in which torture and brutality would go unchecked, the weak would be exploited and greed would have the final word"
Reminder: While it is true that the Cross can bring many earthly benefits, it is also true that primary importance of the Cross for us is that it makes our salvation possible. Without the Cross, none of us could be saved. [Note: Click here for 'The Passion / The Cross' Reflections]
Also Try: The Cross Vs. The Crucifix
"[N]o one can obtain salvation unless through Christ and the merits of His Passion." (Catechism of the Council of Trent)
"The message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. For it is written: 'I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and the learning of the learned I will set aside.'" (1 Cor. 1:18-19)
"For Thy cross is the source of all blessings, cause of all the gifts of grace; through it to them that believe is given strength out of weakness, glory out of shame, life out of death." (Pope St. Leo the Great, Doctor of the Church, 5th Century A.D.)
"For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ, and him crucified." (St. Paul, 1 Cor. 2:2)
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