The priest explained why the cross does not work as an amulet

Residents of the Tula region, wearing a cross, it is important to understand the correct attitude to this shrine in order to avoid superstitious perception of Christian symbols. The rector of St. Nicholas Church of the city of Mosalsk, Kaluga region, Priest Vladislav Beregova in a comment for 360.ru explained that the paternal cross is only a testimony of the Christian faith and a person’s belonging to Christ, and not a magical talisman or amulet to protect against trouble. To endow the object itself with the properties of a talisman is a delusion that contradicts Orthodox teaching.

The priest stressed that spiritual protection is given to a person at the time of the sacrament of baptism, and not through the physical wearing of the cross. In the case of a complete lack of faith, the cross remains only an external symbol of Christianity and has no mystical power.

For Tula believers, this is a reminder that the meaning of wearing the cross is to confess faith, pray and follow the commandments, and not mechanical protection from harm.