Saturday September 14, 2024
The Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross is celebrated on September 14th every year in the Catholic Church. It commemorates the discovery of the True Cross by Saint Helena, mother of Constantine the Great.
The day is dedicated to recognizing the importance of the cross as a symbol of Christ’s sacrifice for humanity. It celebrates the cross as a sign of Christ’s victory over sin and death for us. The Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross is also called the Feast of the Triumph of the Cross. The cross is not a sign of defeat, but a sign of redemption.
The history of this feast dates back to the 4th century when Helena traveled to Jerusalem to find the cross. She is said to have found three crosses. To identify the True Cross, a sick woman touched all three and was healed instantly upon touching one. This identified the True Cross, which was then elevated for public veneration.
This feast reminds Catholics of the centrality of the cross in their faith. It’s not just a piece of wood, but a representation of the ultimate sacrifice that led to the redemption of mankind. In mass, the cross is venerated, and hymns like “Lift High the Cross” are often sung to honor this important symbol.
The celebration also has a universal aspect. The cross is not only significant for Catholics but stands as a universal symbol of selflessness and love. This is a day to ponder upon personal crosses and sacrifices as well, reflecting on how these challenges can be transformative in one’s own life journey.
The Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross serves as an annual reminder of the cross’s significance, not only as a historical artifact but also as a cornerstone of Catholic faith and spirituality. It’s a day for deep reflection, veneration, and a renewed commitment to carrying one’s own cross in life.
Daily Mass Readings for the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross
- First Reading – Numbers 21-4b-9: Tired of their journey and food, the people complain against God and Moses. In response, God allows venomous serpents. After repenting, the people are told by God through Moses to look at a bronze serpent for healing.
- Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 78: Hear, my people, how even when you turned from me, I, in my mercy, forgave you and restrained my wrath. Do not forget the works of your merciful God.
- Second Reading – Philippians 2:6-11: Though in the form of God, Jesus didn’t strive for equality with God. He humbled himself, obeying even unto death on a cross. For this, God exalted him above all names.
- Gospel – John 3:13-17: Jesus tells Nicodemus that only he, the Son of Man, descended from and will ascend to heaven. Like Moses’ serpent, he must be lifted up for people to gain eternal life. God sent him not to condemn, but to save.
Quotes and Social Media Graphics for the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross
Everything is a reminder of the Cross. We ourselves are made in the shape of a cross.
St. John Vianney
Homilies and Reflections
Word On Fire: Jesus’ Mission of Love
In this reflection for the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, Bishop Robert Barron focuses on Jesus’ conversation with Nicodemus, emphasizing that Jesus came into the world not to condemn, but to save. The reason for Jesus’ arrival isn’t rooted in anger or need; it’s an act of love aimed at human flourishing and restoring justice. Bishop Barron outlines that Jesus is the culmination of God’s intent to bring divine life into even the darkest corners of human existence. He stresses that the Father sent the Son not just into human history but also into human sin and dysfunction, reaching all the way to the depths of human despair.
USCCB Reflection: A Symbol of Suffering and Redemption
This video reflection for the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross highlights the centrality of the cross in Christianity, representing Jesus’ sacrificial death out of love for humanity. It acknowledges that the cross is a symbol of suffering, rejection, humiliation, and shame. However, it emphasizes that the Church exalts the cross because it signifies redemption and God’s unending love. Just as Jesus’ perfect offering passed through suffering, our lives as disciples follow a similar pattern. When we endure suffering, rejection, or humiliation, Jesus draws near to us, and God’s love is poured out in our human weakness. The reflection celebrates the cross as a testament to God’s mercy and love.
More Resources
What Is My Cross? Lesson Plan on Dying to Self
The Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross prompts contemplation of personal trials and sacrifices, recognizing their potential for transformation in one’s life journey. This youth ministry reflection, based on Matthew 16:21-27, clarifies the concept of “taking up your cross” for teenagers and provides practical suggestions for its application in their lives.
What Is the Paschal Mystery?
The Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, also known as the Feast of the Triumph of the Cross, celebrates the profound symbolism of the cross. It signifies not defeat but redemption, highlighting the Paschal Mystery—the divine plan for mankind’s salvation, realized through Jesus Christ’s passion, death, resurrection, and ascension. This feast underscores that Jesus has revealed that death is not the ultimate conclusion; instead, it signifies a new beginning and eternal life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What date is the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross?
It is observed annually on September 14.
The next date is Saturday September 14, 2024.
It honors the discovery of what’s believed to be the True Cross by Saint Helena, and also serves as a day to venerate the cross as a symbol of Christ’s sacrifice for mankind.
What are the Mass readings for the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross?
The Mass readings for Saturday September 14, 2024 are:
First Reading – Numbers 21-4b-9: Serpents and Repentance
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 78: Remember My Mercy
Second Reading – Philippians 2:6-11: Jesus’ Humility and Exaltation
Gospel – John 3:13-17: Jesus on Salvation
See the readings section of this page for a longer summary of these readings for the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross and links to the readings.
What is the significance of the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross?
This day celebrates the cross as a sign of Christ’s victory over sin and death for us. The Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross is also called the Feast of the Triumph of the Cross. The cross is not a sign of defeat, but a sign of redemption.
Why is the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross important in the Catholic Church?
This feast emphasizes the importance of the cross in Christian faith. It’s not just an object, but a representation of the sacrifice of Jesus, which is central to the beliefs and practices of the Church.
How is the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross celebrated?
The day usually involves special liturgical services, including mass and the veneration of the cross. Hymns focused on the cross, such as “Lift High the Cross,” are typically sung. Churches may also hold processions or other special events.
Is the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross celebrated in all Christian denominations?
While it’s most closely associated with the Catholic Church, the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross is also observed by some other Christian denominations, including the Anglican and Eastern Orthodox Churches.
Are there specific prayers or rituals for the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross?
Many churches have a special liturgy that includes the veneration of the cross. Some also feature a procession with a relic of the cross, if available. Specific prayers focused on the cross and Christ’s sacrifice are commonly included.
How can families observe the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross at home?
You can observe the day by reading biblical passages related to the crucifixion, spending time in prayer, or even setting up a small home altar with a cross to venerate. Some people also choose this day to begin or renew a personal commitment to bearing their own challenges with grace.
What does the term “triumph of the cross” mean?
The “triumph of the cross” refers to the victory of Jesus Christ over sin and death through his crucifixion and resurrection. The cross, once a symbol of torture and shame, is transformed into a symbol of victory and salvation.
How does the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross emphasize the triumph of the cross?
The Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross specifically celebrates this transformative aspect of the cross. The focus isn’t just on the suffering of Christ, but on the ultimate victory that his sacrifice achieved for humanity.
Why is the concept of triumph important in the veneration of the cross?
The concept of triumph reframes the cross from being just a symbol of suffering to also being one of victory. It reinforces the idea that through Christ’s sacrifice, believers too can overcome sin and achieve freedom.
How can one reflect on the triumph of the cross during the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross?
The feast is a good time to meditate on the transformative power of the cross in your own life. Consider how personal challenges can be opportunities for growth and how faith can lead to victory over difficulties.
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