St. Benedict Standing Crucifix | Olive Wood Cross with Base

In the heart of Rome, where faith echoes through ancient stones and sacred art inspires the soul, we at Santa Gloria are privileged to connect you with treasures of devotion. We present to you not just an object, but a profound symbol of protection, sacrifice, and unwavering faith: the St. Benedict Standing Crucifix.

Lovingly crafted, this 13 cm (5.1 inch) crucifix is a beacon of hope, designed to transform any space into a sanctuary of peace. Set upon a sturdy, beautifully grained base, this Olive Wood St. Benedict Tabletop Crucifix with Medal is ready to become the spiritual centerpiece of your home, desk, or personal altar. It is a tangible connection to a deep and powerful current of Catholic tradition, waiting to bring its blessings into your life.

A Beacon of Faith for Your Sacred Space

Imagine a quiet corner of your home, a space you’ve set aside for prayer, reflection, or simply a moment of peace amidst the chaos of the day. Now, place this exquisite Standing Crucifix there. Immediately, the atmosphere shifts. Its presence is both gentle and powerful, a silent yet constant reminder of Christ’s ultimate sacrifice and the protective mantle of one of Christianity’s most revered saints. This isn’t a crucifix meant to be hidden away; it is designed to be seen and cherished.

As a Tabletop Crucifix, its versatility is unmatched. The solid olive wood base, carved from the same piece of wood as the cross itself, provides stability and elegance, allowing it to stand freely on a mantelpiece, a bedside table, a bookshelf, or the corner of your office desk. In a world of digital distractions, this Wooden Cross with Base serves as a physical anchor to what truly matters. It invites you to pause, to breathe, and to reconnect with your faith throughout the day. It’s a focal point for morning prayers, a comfort during moments of trial, and a beautiful testament to the faith that guides your family.

Crafted from the Ancient Olive Groves of the Holy Land

The story of this crucifix begins in the sun-drenched hills of the Holy Land, in the same ancient groves that have borne fruit for millennia. The olive tree is one of the most significant and sacred symbols in our faith. Its branches were offered as symbols of peace, its oil used to anoint kings and heal the sick, and it was beneath the boughs of an olive tree in the Garden of Gethsemane that Jesus prayed on the night before His passion.

To hold this Olive Wood Crucifix is to hold a piece of that sacred history. Each cross is carved from genuine olive wood, a material cherished for its stunningly rich color and dynamic, flowing grain. No two pieces are ever identical. The unique swirls and patterns in the wood tell a story of resilience and life, a beautiful metaphor for our own spiritual journeys.

The wood is warm and smooth to the touch, possessing an organic, living quality that plastics and common woods simply cannot replicate. This isn’t just wood; it’s a relic of the earth that witnessed the footsteps of Christ, lovingly shaped by skilled artisans who understand its profound spiritual weight. The craftsmanship ensures that the natural beauty of the olive wood is celebrated, making your crucifix a truly one-of-a-kind work of sacred art.

The Powerful Protection of the St. Benedict Medal

Embedded at the intersection of the cross, directly behind the corpus of Christ, lies the heart of this crucifix’s unique spiritual power: the St. Benedict Medal. For centuries, this medal has been one of the most cherished sacramentals in the Catholic Church, a powerful instrument of prayer and a shield against the forces of evil. It is far more than a simple decoration; it is a prayer, a blessing, and a declaration of faith solidified in metal.

The story of the medal dates back to the life of St. Benedict of Nursia, the father of Western monasticism. Known for his deep faith and piety, he famously thwarted attempts to poison him by making the Sign of the Cross over the tainted food and drink. The medal is a representation of this unwavering faith and divine protection.

When you bring this St. Benedict Cross into your home, you are invoking the powerful intercession of this great saint. The medal itself is rich with symbolism, with each letter representing a Latin prayer:

• C.S.P.B.: Crux Sancti Patris Benedicti (“The Cross of our Holy Father Benedict”).
• C.S.S.M.L.: Crux Sacra Sit Mihi Lux (“May the Holy Cross be my light”).
• N.D.S.M.D.: Non Draco Sit Mihi Dux (“May the dragon be not my guide”).
• V.R.S.: Vade Retro Satana (“Begone, Satan!”).
• N.S.M.V.: Nunquam Suade Mihi Vana (“Never tempt me with your vanities”).
• S.M.Q.L.: Sunt Mala Quae Libas (“What you offer is evil”).
• I.V.B.: Ipse Venena Bibas (“Drink the poison yourself”).

Above the cross is the word PAX, meaning “peace,” a hallmark of the Benedictine order. This Crucifix with St. Benedict Medal is therefore a formidable spiritual tool. It is used by the faithful to seek protection from spiritual and physical dangers, to strengthen their resolve against temptation, and to secure a peaceful passing from this life. Having it integrated into the crucifix combines the ultimate symbol of our redemption—the Cross—with the specific, protective charism of St. Benedict.

The Artistry of the Corpus and INRI Plaque

At the center of this beautiful olive wood frame is the finely detailed, silver-toned corpus of our Lord, Jesus Christ. The artists have taken great care to render a depiction that is both reverent and moving. From the position of His hands and feet to the expression of peaceful surrender on His face, the corpus invites deep meditation on the immensity of His love and sacrifice for humanity. The metallic sheen of the corpus provides a striking and beautiful contrast against the warm, organic tones of the olive wood, drawing the eye and the heart to the central mystery of our faith.

Above the corpus, a small, traditionally styled plaque is inscribed with the letters “INRI.” This is the Latin acronym for Iesus Nazarenus, Rex Iudaeorum, which translates to “Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews.” These were the words Pontius Pilate had inscribed on the cross, as recorded in the Gospel of John. Its inclusion on this Catholic Crucifix is a declaration of Christ’s true kingship—not an earthly one, but a heavenly one that reigns over all creation. It is these small, authentic details that honor the rich history of Christian iconography and deepen the devotional value of the crucifix.

Perfectly Sized for Devotion: The 13 cm (5.1 Inch) Standing Cross

In creating a piece for personal devotion, size is of the utmost importance. At 13 cm, or approximately 5.1 inches tall, this 5 Inch Crucifix strikes the perfect balance. It is substantial enough to have a genuine presence, to be a clear and visible focal point on a desk or altar without overwhelming the space. Yet, it is also intimate and personal in its scale. It feels comfortable and solid when held in the hand during prayer or moments of distress.

This thoughtful sizing makes the 5.1 Inch St. Benedict Standing Cross in Olive Wood incredibly versatile. It is large enough to serve as the central crucifix for a small family altar but compact enough to travel with or to be placed in a more private setting, like a bedroom or a study. For a student in a dormitory, a professional in an office, or anyone in a small living space, this 13 cm Crucifix offers a powerful symbol of faith that fits perfectly into their life and environment. The proportions are balanced, with the sturdy base providing a foundation that is both visually pleasing and practical.

More Than an Object: A Source of Peace and a Channel of Grace

It is essential to remember that a blessed crucifix is not merely a decorative item; it is a sacramental. It is a holy object that the Church uses to dispose us to receive grace from God. This St. Benedict Standing Crucifix is a powerful conduit for that grace. Its very presence can sanctify a room, turning a simple house into a home filled with the spirit of Christ—a domestic church.

Placing this crucifix in your home is an act of faith. It is a declaration that your space is under the protection of Christ the King. It serves as a constant invitation to prayer, turning your thoughts toward God. When you face temptation, its presence can be a source of strength.

When you experience sorrow, meditating upon the corpus can unite your sufferings with Christ’s and bring profound comfort. When you feel joy, it stands as a reminder of the source of all good things. This is not just a purchase; it is an investment in your spiritual life and the spiritual well-being of your family. It is a tool for evangelization in your own home, a silent sermon that speaks volumes to all who see it.

The Santa Gloria Promise: Authenticity and Tradition from the Heart of Rome

Here at Santa Gloria, our mission is born from our location and our love for the Church. Situated in the eternal city of Rome, just a stone’s throw from the Vatican, we are immersed in the daily life and rhythm of the Catholic faith. We are not just a store; we are curators of sacred art, committed to providing the faithful with items that are authentic, beautiful, and theologically sound.

Tabletop Crucifix

We source our items from dedicated artisans, many from families who have been crafting religious goods for generations in Italy and the Holy Land. We understand the difference between a mass-produced trinket and a genuine article of faith. When you purchase this Olive Wood Crucifix from Santa Gloria, you are receiving a piece that has been selected for its quality, its beauty, and its adherence to sacred tradition. Our promise to you is one of authenticity. You are not just buying a product; you are acquiring a piece of sacred heritage, backed by a name you can trust, from the very heart of Christendom.

A Cherished Catholic Gift for Every Occasion

Because of its profound meaning, exceptional quality, and beautiful craftsmanship, the St. Benedict Standing Crucifix makes an unforgettable and deeply meaningful gift for almost any significant spiritual occasion. It is a gift that says you care not only for the person’s temporal happiness but for their eternal soul.

Consider it as the perfect Catholic Gift for:

• Weddings: A beautiful blessing for a new couple, establishing Christ at the center of their new home.
• Housewarmings: To sanctify a new living space and place it under God’s protection.
• Confirmations or First Communions: A powerful and age-appropriate gift that will serve as a lifelong reminder of their sacramental commitment.
• RCIA Candidates: To welcome a new member into the Church with one of its most powerful sacramentals.
• Students: For a dorm room or first apartment, a reminder of faith and a source of strength while away from home.
• Priests, Deacons, or Religious: An elegant addition to their office or private quarters.
• Times of Illness or Bereavement: A profound source of comfort and hope for those who are suffering.

Giving this crucifix is giving a gift of peace, protection, and prayer. It is an heirloom in the making, a piece that will be treasured for years and perhaps even generations to come.

Caring for Your Olive Wood Crucifix

Your olive wood crucifix is a natural work of art and requires minimal care to maintain its beauty. To clean, simply wipe it gently with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaners. Over time, if the wood appears to lose some of its luster, you can rejuvenate it by rubbing a small amount of olive oil into the wood with a soft cloth. This will nourish the grain and restore its deep, warm glow. With this simple care, your crucifix will remain a beautiful symbol of your faith for a lifetime.

Bring home this timeless expression of faith and protection. Allow the St. Benedict Standing Crucifix from Santa Gloria to be a source of strength, peace, and grace in your life and in your home. Order yours today and welcome this blessing into your sacred space.