Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross
John 3:14-15
And just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the desert, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, so that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life.
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We make the sign of the cross. We would place a cross in rooms of our house, or wearing this image on our persons, is a constant reminder – and witness – of Christ's ultimate triumph, His victory over sin and death through His suffering and dying on the Cross. The cross is a symbolic summary of the Passion, Crucifixion and Resurrection of Christ – all in one image - the image of salvation and heavenly promise.
On the Feast of the Exaltation of the Cross (or Triumph of the Cross) we honor the Holy Cross by which Christ redeemed the world. The public veneration of the Cross of Christ originated in the fourth century, according to early accounts, beginning with the miraculous discovery of the cross by Saint Helen, mother of Constantine, while she was on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem – the same day that two churches built at the site of Calvary by Constantine were dedicated.
The Cross – because of what it represents – is the most potent and universal symbol of the Christian faith. It has inspired both liturgical and private devotions. We remember Our Lord's words, "He who does not take up his cross and follow me is not worthy of me”.
Meditating on these words we unite ourselves – our souls and bodies – with His obedience and His sacrifice; and we rejoice in this inestimable gift through which we have the hope of salvation and the glory.
Let us pray +
God our Father, in obedience to you your only Son accepted death on the Cross for the salvation of mankind. We acknowledge the mystery of the Cross on earth. May we receive the gift of redemption in heaven. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen +
Do not forget the works of the Lord!
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