The Cross of Saint Peter: Symbol of Inspiring Humility
The cross of Saint Peter roughly consists of an inverted Latin cross. Despite what some may think, this is indeed a Christian symbol traditionally used by the Roman Church, even if it is true that certain very dark sects may have used it.
The origin of the cross of Saint Peter comes from the Christian belief that Saint Peter (also known as Simon, one of the twelve apostles and first head of the Catholic Church) was crucified upside down.
Peter was one of the first missionaries to Asia Minor and the Roman Empire. He also founded the Church of Rome with Paul. Emperor Nero saw this new church as a threat and so launched a campaign to root out the troublemakers. Saint Peter was imprisoned, tortured and finally crucified.
Theologians believe that he requested this form of crucifixion because he felt unworthy to be crucified in the same way as Jesus Christ. In this sense, the cross of Saint Peter is often considered a great symbol of humility. According to Roman Catholic doctrine, bishops are considered the successors of the apostles (this is what we call apostolic succession) and the bishop of Rome (i.e. the pope) is the successor of St. Peter. It is for this reason that the cross of Saint Peter is also sometimes used to designate the papacy and the authority of Rome.
According to some evil-minded and perverted people, the cross of Saint Peter is an inverted cross. They then use it to mock the cross used by Christians faithful to God.
For these pagans and heretics, this type of Christian cross would derive directly from the German-Viking symbol of Thor's cross.
However, it is clear that the best interpretation, and in our eyes the only one that appears valid, is to say that the cross of Saint Peter is a call to humility before God Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
