BN Olivewood Holding/Comfort Cross - Made in Bethlehem

Each olive wood holding cross (also known as a comfort cross, due to the comfort that it provides) is individually handcrafted from aged olive wood. Slight variations are normal due to the variations in the grain on the wood and this enhances the beauty of the piece.  In time it will develop its own patina as it is handled.  The asymmetric holding cross is made to fit ergonomically into the palm of one’s hand.

It is thought that the holding cross is based on an ancient design found in ancient European chapels.  Although the origin of the holding/comfort cross tradition is not known, it is thought that it dates back to the early Christians.   

Who should buy this Holding/Comfort Cross?

• Anyone who is in a time of struggle or loss and is looking for guidance.
• Anyone who needs to find comfort and is looking for solace.
• Anyone who is struggling to cling to their faith.
• Anyone who is looking for a companion for their prayers and meditation.
• If you or someone you know is ill simply holding the cross may be the best way to pray.

It is the ideal gift to mark most gift giving occasions such as a baptism, confirmation, birthday, Easter, Christmas or just to give to someone to say Thank You.

It is recommended to keep a supply of these crosses ready to give to your loved ones in their times of need.  They will make a much cherished gift.

I have sold thousands of these over the last year, with customers coming back for more time after time.  Amongst my customers who have bought from me in bulk are schools (to hand out to each pupil and staff member), churches, chaplains of hospitals and prisons, hospice volunteers and managers and many, many more. 

Please note that these crosses are environmentally friendly as they are made only from the prunings of ancient olive trees growing in the Bethlehem region, the site of the nativity of Jesus (Matt 2, Luke 2).

Dimensions: 9.5 cm /4 1/3" height, 4.5 cm /2 3/4" wide and 1.3 cm/1/2" thick

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Some Extra Information about Olive Wood:

Olive trees are indigenous to the Holy Land and are treasured because the oil from their fruit has been used for religious rites since biblical times. The olive wood used in these beautiful products is of the highest quality and is distinctive for its dark lines. It comes only from olive wood trees that are grown in the area between Shechem and Hebron that are not irrigated. The olive tree is a protected species in Israel and cannot be cut down. Once every two years the olive trees are pruned so that they bear fruit and it is from these prunings that these handcrafted pieces are made. The prunings are stored for almost 5 years until they are dry enough to carve, before they are used by the craftsmen for these exquisite pieces.

Olive wood items make perfect gifts. Not only are they imbued with spirituality, they also do not require much care since olive oil is naturally protecting them from corrosion and changes of color.  

PAYMENT & SHIPPING:

I accept U.K. cheques, postal orders (sent to a UK address I will give you), Paypal (if it is not to a confirmed address I reserve right not to accept this)  .    I can combine postage with other purchases.  

Please note that shipment is from Israel and it should take approximately 7 - 10 days to arrive in the UK after posting (occasionally a bit longer).  I ship goods out most days - sometimes even twice a day. If you need them quicker, please ask me for a quotation for EMS Express Mail Shipping - takes 3 - 4 days to the UK or USA.

TERMS & CONDITIONS:

If you have any problem, please contact me before leaving feedback as I am always willing to sort out problems, but prefer to hear it from you before you leave feedback so we can sort the matter out. If you leave feedback without contacting me first then I will consider the transaction completed.

I usually respond very quickly to Emails and ship out very promptly - but I have 3 small children, so if I do not reply immediately - there may be a good reason - so please be patient.