AFthis one from the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, celebrated on September 14, is one of the oldest and most significant Christian festivals in the Christian tradition. It has deep roots in the history of the Church and is celebrated with great solemnity.
The origin of Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross dates back to the 4th century, during the reign of Emperor Constantine, who legalized Christianity in the Roman Empire. Tradition says that Constantine’s mother, Saint Helena, traveled to the Holy Land in search of the Cross on what Jesus was crucified. She allegedly discovered the real Cross of Christ in Jerusalem in 326 AD
The party was established to celebrate the recovery of Holy Cross, which had been lost for a long time. In 335 AD, the emperor ordered the construction of the Church of the Holy Sepulcher in Jerusalem, which became an important pilgrimage site. A Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross was established to commemorate the dedication of this church and the rediscovery of Cross.
The act of “exalting” the Holy Cross it is an expression of reverence and adoration. On this day, Christians meditate on the meaning of Cross of Christ as a symbol of redemption and salvation. A Crosswhich was originally a symbol of torture and death, became a symbol of eternal life and hope through the sacrifice of Jesus.
The celebration of Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross varies according to religious tradition. Generally, it includes special liturgies, prayers, biblical readings and the veneration of the Cross. In Catholic and Orthodox churches, it is common for the faithful to kneel before the Cross or kiss her as an act of devotion.
In addition to the religious dimension, the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross it also has a deep spiritual meaning. It reminds us of the sacrifice of Christ for humanity and the promise of redemption and eternal life. It is a time for Christians to reflect on their own journey of faith and commit to following the example of Jesustaking the Cross as a symbol of love, forgiveness and hope in their lives.
In summary, the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross is an important celebration in the Christian tradition that honors the Cross of Christ as a symbol of redemption and salvation. It reminds us of the sacrifice of Jesus and invites us to take the Cross as a symbol of our own faith and commitment to Christian teachings. It is an occasion for the faithful to renew their devotion and hope in the message of Cross.
We adore you, Lord Jesus Christ, and we bless you, because by your Holy Cross you redeemed the world!