Jesus reveals himself as good Shepherd on the Cross, in the supreme act of abandonment to the Father and the free gift of himself for the salvation of the flock: "Ego sum Pastor bonus". Christ's attitude at the centre of the Cross and the words placed above his head, give witness to the truth of love; the good shepherd gives his life for the sheep (Jn, 10:11).

From the life of Christ, totally given to the Father and to humankind, flows "abundant" life (Jn:10). This saving love is symbolically represented by the vertical lines that from the Crucifix descend on the whole of humanity, transforming death into life.

The Cross in the form of a chalice suggests the link with the Eucharist, daily memorial of the death of the Lord and his commandment to love.