Definition

Noun: A crosier (also spelled crozier) is a ceremonial staff, typically made of metal or wood, that is carried by a bishop or an abbot in certain Christian churches as a symbol of their pastoral office and spiritual authority. It is traditionally topped with a decorative crook or a cross.

Examples

• The bishop held his crosier as he led the procession into the cathedral.
• In the medieval painting, the saint is depicted with a crosier in his hand.
• The ornate crosier was passed down through generations of archbishops.

Advanced Usage

• Symbolic Meaning: The crosier symbolizes the shepherd's crook, representing the bishop's role as a shepherd guiding his flock (the congregation). The curved top (the crook) is used to "hook" or guide the faithful, while a pointed end can symbolize the goad to prod the lazy.
• Liturgical Use: The crosier is used during specific liturgical ceremonies, such as ordinations, confirmations, and solemn processions. It is not used during the celebration of the Eucharist itself.

Variants and Related Words

• Crozier: An alternative spelling of crosier.
• Pastoral Staff: A more general term for a crosier.
• Bishop's Staff: A descriptive term for a crosier.

Synonyms

• Pastoral staff
• Bishop's crook
• Shepherd's crook (in a symbolic, non-ceremonial context)

Idioms and Phrases

• To bear the crosier: To hold the office of a bishop or abbot.
  • He was deemed worthy to bear the crosier and lead the diocese.

Noun

1. a staff surmounted by a crook or cross carried by bishops as a symbol of pastoral office