Cross & Liturgical Fans
The processional cross and liturgical fans stand on long staffs and are carried at solemn moments. The fans often display six-winged Seraphim.
Perspective note
Comparative historical/source study. The original author's or church's reception is retained; inclusion does not make every claim Oriental Orthodox teaching.
Key points
- The fans recall the angels gathered around God's throne.
- Look for: A tall cross and paired circular fans behind the Holy Table.
- Illustrated location: Sanctuary / altar area
- Earthly worship and the heavenly assembly (Scripture): Exodus places cherubim above the Ark; Isaiah sees seraphim praising God, and Revelation shows worship around the heavenly throne. Liturgical fans and the dome’s Christ Pantocrator image direct attention to this heavenly worship.
- Cherubim and seraphim are distinct biblical descriptions. Modern liturgical fans are an expression of angelic imagery, not the original cherubim of the Ark.
Scripture
- Exodus 25:10–40 — Earthly worship and the heavenly assembly: Exodus places cherubim above the Ark; Isaiah sees seraphim praising God, and Revelation shows worship around the heavenly throne. Liturgical fans and the dome’s Christ Pantocrator image direct attention to this heavenly worship.
- Isaiah 6:1–4 — Earthly worship and the heavenly assembly: Exodus places cherubim above the Ark; Isaiah sees seraphim praising God, and Revelation shows worship around the heavenly throne. Liturgical fans and the dome’s Christ Pantocrator image direct attention to this heavenly worship.
- Revelation 4:2–11 — Earthly worship and the heavenly assembly: Exodus places cherubim above the Ark; Isaiah sees seraphim praising God, and Revelation shows worship around the heavenly throne. Liturgical fans and the dome’s Christ Pantocrator image direct attention to this heavenly worship.
- Hebrews 12:22–24 — Earthly worship and the heavenly assembly: Exodus places cherubim above the Ark; Isaiah sees seraphim praising God, and Revelation shows worship around the heavenly throne. Liturgical fans and the dome’s Christ Pantocrator image direct attention to this heavenly worship.