Dictionary
A modern dictionary of Catholic terms, both common and obscure. Find accurate definitions of words and phrases.
CROSS ON STAFF
Symbol of St. Philip the Apostle because he was a traveling missionary who used the cross effectively in his contest with paganism and eventually died on it. St. Bridget of Sweden (1303-73) likewise has a cross-mounted staff as her emblem. The Latin style pommée cross with knoblike rounded ends is often used as a ceremonial cross.
All items in this dictionary are from Fr. John Hardon's Modern Catholic Dictionary, © Eternal Life. Used with permission.
Recent Catholic Commentary
Revealing News, and Revealing Christ 2 hours ago
The Russell Ford problem 2 hours ago
Fr. Thadeus Nguyen Van Ly: Your Letter May Help 9 hours ago
Top Catholic News
Most Important Stories of the Last 30 Days







