The Exaltation of the Holy Cross

The Exaltation of the Holy Cross is linked to the fourth-century discovery tradition of the True Cross by Saint Helena, mother of Emperor Constantine, and the dedication of churches built over Calvary and the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem in 335. The feast also recalls the recovery of the relic of the Cross from the Persians by Emperor Heraclius in the seventh century.

The Cross, once an instrument of Roman execution and shame, became the sign of Christ’s victory over sin and death. Historically, this feast gathers together Jerusalem, imperial Christianity, pilgrimage, relic devotion, and the deepest theology of redemption. It calls believers to see suffering through the light of Christ’s self-giving love.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, by your Holy Cross, redeem our suffering and teach us to love with sacrificial courage. Amen.