Cardinal Adeyemi’s Cross
The Making of Conclave
The cross, whose arms are inspired by the layout of St. Peter’s Square, is embellished on the front with an oval lapis lazuli, cabochon cut and set in a quatrefoil shape.
Lapis lazuli, with its midnight blue color, symbolizes the spirit and the attainment of Paradise, as well as being the color of the Virgin Mary’s mantle.
On the back, another lapis lazuli, engraved with a cross, is set in a navette shape.
In Christian art, the risen Christ is often depicted within a shape called the “mandorla.” This symbol represents the mystery of Christ, who conceals His divine nature within His human nature, just as the almond fruit is enclosed within its shell.
This cross was worn by actor Lucian Msamati.
