Verb
take the cross (third-person singular simple present takes the cross, present participle taking the cross, simple past took the cross, past participle taken the cross)
(chiefly historical) To accept a sign or badge depicting the Christian cross as part of an oath or vow, especially to take part in a crusade.
It is a dangerous day when we can take the cross out of the church more easily than the flag. No wonder it is hard for seekers to find God nowadays. Shane Claiborne