The Mariner's Cross. The Crucifixion. The Guardian Angel. Orthodox Cross

This Orthodox baptismal cross is made in the ancient traditions of the Church. The symbol of the anchor is therefore found in the form of many ancient men's crosses. The Mariner's Cross is made in precisely this form, and together with its movable suspension loop it recalls an anchor.

This is a canonical cross with the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ on the front. Beside it is inscribed "NIKA", and next to the cross the Lord is attended by the Mother of God and the apostle John the Theologian.

Above the Crucifixion, at the head of the cross, is the image of the Most Holy Trinity; below is the apostle Andrew the First-Called, who preached Christ to the Scythians and the Slavs. On either side of the Crucifixion are the images of Russian saints, patrons of the fleet and of seafarers: St Mitrofan of Voronezh and St Arseny of Konevets. St Mitrofan of Voronezh became renowned as a wise pastor.

The reverse of the Mariner's Cross is devoted entirely to the protection and deliverance of those who travel by sea. At its centre is the icon of the holy Guardian Angel with a cross and a sword. His mighty figure hovers above the waves. At his feet are sailing ships, which seem small and frail. This is the image of the Guardian Angel, guardian of human souls both at sea and in the storm of worldly passions and temptations.

Beside the Angel are two icons of miracles of Jesus Christ. On the left is the walking upon the waters. The apostles were sailing by night upon the sea when they suddenly saw the Lord coming to them across the water. The apostle Peter stepped out of the boat and also walked upon the water, but grew afraid and began to sink. "Immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him: O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?" (Matthew 14:25–32).

On the right is another miracle, which likewise speaks of the saving power of faith and the omnipotence of God. When Jesus Christ was sailing in a boat with His disciples, a great storm arose upon the sea. The disciples were afraid and began to cry out that they were perishing. Then the Lord arose and "rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea: Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. And he said unto them: Why are ye so fearful? How is it that ye have no faith?" (Mark 4:37–41).

God grants power over the sea to those saints whom He has chosen. One of them is St Nicholas the Wonderworker, bishop of Myra (3rd century). For the remarkable power to still the elements, shown even during his lifetime, he is also known among the people as "Nicholas of the Sea". The image of this beloved saint crowns the reverse of the cross. Below is depicted the miracle of St Nicholas, who saved a ship from sinking in a storm.