local custom. The faithful come forward and make two prostrations, make the sign of the cross on themselves, and kiss the feet of Christ on the cross, and then make a third prostration. After this, they will often receive a blessing from the priest and bow towards their fellow worshippers on each side of the church (this latter practice is most commonly observed in monasteries). At the End of Services At the end of the Divine Liturgy, and at some other services as well, it is customary for the faithful to come forward and venerate the "Blessing Cross" (hand-cross) which is held by the bishop or priest, and to kiss his hand. This practice is also called the "Veneration of the Cross", though it does not involve making prostrations. The cross which is venerated is small (typically 10–16 inches). This cross is usually metal, often gold or gold-plated, and can be enameled or decorated with jewels. The figure of Jesus on the Cross (the soma) is usually engraved, enameled, or painted on the cross, rather than being a separate three-dimensional figure as is found on a crucifix. This is due to the Orthodox practice of using icons rather than statues in church. See also Dream of the Rood Ember days Footnotes References Further reading External links The 13th through 18th photos in this series are of a Russian Orthodox bishop performing the Exaltation of the Cross in West Virginia Photo of Exaltation of the Cross by a Bishop in Russia Christian festivals and holy days March observances April observances September observances August observances May observances Crucifixion of Jesus Feasts of Jesus Christ Christian processions Helena, mother of Constantine I Church of the Holy Sepulchre