Final answer:
The cross on a church usually points to the east as it signifies the rising sun and is aligned with Christian symbology of resurrection and Christ's Second Coming, while also reflecting older pagan practices. The eastward orientation is traditional and symbolically significant, outweighing other factors such as historical events.The correct option is c.
Step-by-step explanation:
The tip of the cross on a church is usually pointed to the east because it signifies the rising sun. Christian churches often have the apse and altar facing East which symbolizes the direction from which Christ ascended and where believers expect His Second Coming. This orientation aligns with the Christian teaching that references the East as significant in the context of resurrection and the Last Judgment. Moreover, Eastward orientation can also be traced back to early pagan traditions which revered the East, the direction where the sun rises. Therefore, the correct answer is c) It signifies the rising sun.
The historical aspect of church orientation can be seen with Old St. Peter's whose apse faced West as a commemoration of the crucifixion of St. Peter. This points to exceptions based on historical or local significance, yet the generally accepted practice is the eastward alignment consistent with liturgical symbolism over historical events.