Introduction

Exaltation of the Holy Cross, Every year on September 14, the Catholic Church celebrates the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross. This feast is not just about looking at the Cross as a historical object but about lifting it up in glory as the instrument of our salvation. The Cross, once a sign of shame and death, has become the symbol of victory, hope, and eternal life.

In this article, we will explore the meaning, significance, and Church teaching on this feast so that every Catholic and seeker may deepen their love for Christ’s sacrifice.

The Meaning of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross

The word Exaltation means “lifting up” or “glorifying.” On this feast day, the Church remembers and honors the Holy Cross of Jesus, which, through His Passion and death, became the instrument of redemption for humanity.

What was once an instrument of torture in the Roman Empire became the greatest sign of love and salvation. The Cross shows that God can transform suffering into victory and death into eternal life.

The Historical Background

The feast has its roots in the 4th century, when St. Helena, the mother of Emperor Constantine, is said to have discovered the True Cross during her pilgrimage to Jerusalem. To honor this discovery, a basilica was built on the site of Calvary, and the Cross was venerated publicly.

Later, the feast also commemorated the return of the True Cross to Jerusalem in the 7th century after it had been captured by the Persians. Since then, the Church has celebrated September 14 as a reminder of the glory of the Cross.

The Significance of the Feast

  1. Symbol of Victory – The Cross is the sign that Christ conquered sin, death, and Satan.

  2. Reminder of God’s Love – “For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son…” (John 3:16).

  3. Call to Discipleship – Jesus says, “If anyone wishes to come after me, let him deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me” (Matthew 16:24).

  4. Hope in Suffering – The feast reminds us that our own crosses, when united with Christ’s, bring grace and glory.

Church Teaching on the Exaltation of the Holy Cross

The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 617) teaches:
“Jesus consummated his sacrifice on the Cross. It is the sacrifice of Christ that accomplishes our redemption.”

For Catholics, the Cross is not a mere symbol but the central mystery of faith. The Mass itself makes present the sacrifice of the Cross in an unbloody manner, reminding us that every Eucharist is a celebration of Christ’s victory through the Cross.

“The Cross is the unique sacrifice of Christ, the ‘one mediator between God and men.’ But because in his incarnate divine person he has in some way united himself to every man, the possibility of being made partners, in a way known to God, in the paschal mystery is offered to all men.”

This means every Christian is invited to share in the victory of the Cross by uniting their lives, joys, and sufferings to Christ.

The Church also teaches that venerating the Cross is not worship of wood or material, but adoration of Christ who died upon it. As St. Paul declared, “May I never boast except in the Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Galatians 6:14).

 

Living the Spirit of the Feast and Why the Feast Matters Today

In a world often marked by pain, trials, and challenges, the Exaltation of the Holy Cross reminds us that our struggles are not meaningless. The Cross transforms suffering into hope, weakness into strength, and death into life. It calls us to look beyond present challenges and trust in the God who brings victory out of defeat.

To truly exalt the Cross, we are invited to:

  • Participate in Mass on September 14.

  • Reflect on Christ’s Passion and unite our sufferings with His.

  • Make the Sign of the Cross reverently and frequently.

  • Embrace our daily crosses with faith and hope.

Conclusion

The Exaltation of the Holy Cross is a powerful reminder that what the world considers defeat, God transforms into victory. By lifting high the Cross, we proclaim to the world that salvation comes only through Jesus Christ.

As Catholics, we do not fear the Cross — we embrace it, because it leads to resurrection and eternal glory.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on the Exaltation of the Holy Cross

1. Why do Catholics celebrate the Exaltation of the Holy Cross?
Catholics celebrate this feast to honor the Cross of Christ as the instrument of our salvation. It reminds us of Jesus’ victory over sin and death and the immense love God has for humanity.

2. Is the Cross the same as the Crucifix?
Not exactly. The Cross is the general symbol, while the Crucifix shows the Cross with the body of Jesus (the corpus) on it. Both are sacred signs, but the Crucifix highlights the sacrifice of Christ in a powerful way.

3. Why do Catholics venerate the Cross?
Catholics venerate the Cross not as an idol, but as a sign of Christ’s saving work. The Church makes clear that our reverence is directed to Jesus, whose sacrifice transformed the Cross into a symbol of hope and life.

4. How is the feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross celebrated?
It is celebrated with Mass, special prayers, hymns such as “Lift High the Cross,” and sometimes processions. In many places, the faithful reflect on the meaning of Christ’s sacrifice and renew their commitment to carrying their own crosses with faith.

5. What lesson does the Cross teach Christians today?
The Cross teaches us that suffering can lead to redemption when united with Christ. It is a call to live with courage, faith, and love, knowing that victory comes through perseverance in Christ.

6. What is the difference between Good Friday and the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross?
Good Friday commemorates the Passion and death of Jesus on the Cross, while the Feast of the Exaltation celebrates the Cross itself as the glorious sign of redemption and victory over sin and death.

7. What Bible verses highlight the importance of the Cross?
Some key passages include:

  • John 3:16 – God’s love shown through Christ’s sacrifice.

  • 1 Corinthians 1:18 – “The message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.”

  • Philippians 2:8-9 – Christ humbled Himself on the Cross, and God exalted Him.

 

“On this Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, we remember that the Cross is not a symbol of defeat, but of victory and redemption. ✝️
‘We adore You, O Christ, and we bless You, because by Your Holy Cross You have redeemed the world.’”

 

“What does the Cross mean to you? Share your reflections in the comments below!”