Patrick Morrisroe,
Catholic Encyclopedia
(1913)
“ Cross-Bearer, The cleric or minister who carries the processional cross, that is, a crucifix provided with a long staff or handle. An archbishop's cross is borne with the figure of the crucifix towards the prelate, but in all other cases the figure should be turned forward. The cross-bearer should, whenever possible, be a cleric (Council of Milan, seventeenth century) , but in lay processions the most worthy of the laity should be selected for the office. ”
