Customs Related to Cross-making Objects in Samogitia
Customs Related to Cross-making Objects in Samogitia

Summary/Abstract: Cross-making objects – buildings and with them related customs were intended only for enrichment of people’s spiritual life. The most important custom related to cross-making objects is consecration. Having consecrated a cross or a chapel, the congregation takes off the garland and the land does not belong to the owner anymore. This is a homestead of a saint. The people used to decorate the chapels by putting beads, mirrors and rosaries inside with a belief they would be healed from various diseases or receive clemencies from the saint. Such decoration is common to all ethnographic areas. Visiting of crosses can also be attributed to most impressive customs related to cross-making objects. They were visited on Cross Days.

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