Why does the pope carry a cross around his neck?

Answer 1

It is a tradition for a Pope to carry a cross around his neck. The cross that he wears is a symbol of his Christianity.

Catholic Answer

Since the Middle Ages, the pectoral cross (a cross worn low on the chest, and rather large) has been the sign of a Bishop in the Catholic faith. By custom only Bishops and Abbots may wear a pectoral cross with their vestments and clerical clothes. Archbishops, Cardinals, and the Pope are all Bishops, and thus, by virtue of their office, must wear a pectoral cross.

Answer 2

Roman Catholic AnswerAll bishops carry a pastoral staff, sometimes called a Crosier of Crozier when they are officiating, for instance in procession into Mass, while they stand to hear the Gospel, when they are imparting the blessing at the end of Mass. The Holy Father (the Pope) ceased carrying a pastoral staff in the eleventh century, the reason is not know. The Holy Father is always a bishop, and Bishop of Rome.

Since the thirteen century, Popes have again started carrying a staff, but with a Cross on top of it, instead of the curved top proper to a Crosier. It is a symbol of his office and is carrying in front of him. It is also carrying by him, as a pastoral staff, during certain functions. The staff, itself, and his carrying of it are symbols of his episcopal office and jurisdiction.

Answer 3

The pope is considered the shepherd of the Church and the staff represents a shepherd's staff. It is also carried by all bishops during liturgical celebrations.