The Exaltation of the Holy Cross: The Sign of Salvation and Love
- Altynai Maria Abaskan
- Sep 14
- 2 min read
"When I am lifted up from the earth, I will draw all people to myself." – John 12:32
The Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, celebrated on September 14, 2025, honors the cross of Jesus Christ as the instrument of salvation and the supreme sign of God’s love for humanity. This feast invites believers to venerate the cross, recognizing it not as a symbol of defeat but of victory over sin and death.
The History Behind the Feast
The celebration traces back to the dedication of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem in the 4th century, built on the site where Jesus was crucified and buried. The discovery of the True Cross by Saint Helena, mother of Emperor Constantine, led to the establishment of this solemn feast.
The Cross: From Shame to Glory
In the ancient world, the cross was a tool of torture and humiliation. Yet, Christ transformed it into a sign of hope and redemption. Through His sacrifice on the cross, Jesus conquered sin and opened the way to eternal life for all who believe.
A Call to Bear Our Own Cross
The feast also reminds Christians of their call to take up their own crosses daily, embracing trials and sacrifices with faith and trust in God. By uniting our sufferings with Christ’s, we participate in His redemptive work.
A Source of Hope and Strength
The Exaltation of the Holy Cross calls the faithful to look to the cross with reverence and gratitude. It is a beacon of hope, reminding us that through love and sacrifice, life triumphs over death.
As we honor the cross this September, may we deepen our love for Christ and find courage to follow Him faithfully in our own lives.
*All articles in our blog are written with the help of ChatGPT AI and reviewed by human editors.
