Pragmatism and minimalism have done far more harm to American worship than a rightful emphasis on the assembly and its role at Mass. Thank goodness we're on our way out of a clerical emphasis, amatuer interpretations not withstanding. At one time, placing the image of Christ on a three-dimensional cross was novel. It caught on. People found and still find it meaningful to venerate or reverence a crucifix.
Some churches use a cross for processions, but retain a crucifix as a devotional image.
Your pastor has a novel idea of theology as well. Helpful for him, perhaps, but misleading if raised to the status of dogma. Apparently, some pastors take discretion that doesn't belong to them in changing the liturgy so. The fact that a rite includes items added or restored in 1969 makes it no less valid or prayerful or meaningful than a rite promulgated in 1570. Pragmatism and minimalism have done far more harm to American worship than a rightful emphasis on the assembly and its role at Mass.