What is the papal cross?

Answer 1

The papal cross or ferula is an emblem of the papal office. As a material cross, it was carried before the Roman pontiff in processions or was used by him as his pastoral staff.

Answer 2

Answer: When clergy enter a church in procession, it is normal for a crossbearer to lead. In the past, whenever a bishop presided, a smaller cross/crucifix was carried immediately in front of him. This practise is maintained in some High Anglican parishes though it has never been done in Orthodoxy and was abolished in Catholicism after Vatican II. If the person presiding was an archbishop, then the cross had a second (smaller) bar midway between the crossbar and the top of the cross. Popes were distinguished by having 3 bars (reducing in length). This style of cross has not been used within Catholicism in many years, although it is sometimes seen in heraldry.