I would think, since the intention is that the cross is held in the hand, that the feel of the finish could be important. I don’t think they’re necessarily going to get a lot of ‘wear and tear’ but some handling may wear the finish a little. Given that, I could see a hardwax oil being a possibility. TWW really liked Natura Onecoat for that. I don’t have any experience with it, but it gets good reviews.
Odie’s Oil is another one that I really like for things hands are going to feel. And it’s easily refinished since it’s just a wipe on process. It’s my go-to for small quick finish wax oil projects.
Tried &True and pure Tung oil would be other good choices, as stated.
Ryan/// ~sigh~ I blew up another bowl. Moke told me "I made the inside bigger than the outside".