BRILL: The Exaltation of the Holy Cross is a sign of victory, redemption

A crucifix is seen at St. Theresa Parish in Memorial Park at a recent Mass. (Photo by James Ramos/Herald)On Sept. 14, the Church celebrates the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, a day dedicated to honoring the very instrument of our salvation. The cross, once a symbol of humiliation and death, became the means through which Christ triumphed over sin and opened the gates of eternal life. 

This feast reminds us that, as Christians, we are called to embrace the cross in our own lives, knowing that through suffering, there is redemption.  

This year, as it falls on a Sunday, it takes precedence over the Ordinary Time Liturgy, reminding us that Christ’s Cross is central to our salvation. The Exaltation of the Holy Cross commemorates the historical events that followed the discovery of the True Cross by St. Helen, the mother of Emperor Constantine, in the fourth century. However, it is more than a historical remembrance; this feast is a profound invitation to reflect on the power and mystery of the cross in our own lives.  

The cross is central to our faith. It is in the sign of the cross that we begin and end our prayers. We trace it over ourselves in times of blessing and trial. Every crucifix in our churches and homes is a testament to Christ’s love, a love so deep that He gave His life for us. As the entrance antiphon proclaims, “We should glory in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, for He is our salvation, our life and our resurrection: through Him we are saved and made free.” On this feast, we are reminded that the cross is not just an image from the past — it is a sacramental that calls us to deeper faith, trust and surrender.  

Throughout history, the Church has fostered deep devotion to the cross through various traditions. On Good Friday, we venerate the cross with a kiss, recalling Christ’s sacrifice. The Stations of the Cross, prayed especially during Lent, allow us to walk with Jesus in His passion. Many Catholic homes display a crucifix as a daily reminder of Christ’s presence and sacrifice. The feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross invites us to renew our faith by reflecting on this instrument of our salvation.  

This feast is also a moment to reflect on Jesus’ call: “Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me” (Mk 8:34). In our daily struggles — whether they be illness, loss or personal challenges — the cross is not a burden meant to defeat us but a means through which God draws us closer to Himself. By uniting our sufferings with Christ, we find hope and strength.  

How can we celebrate this feast? One way is by taking time to venerate a crucifix in prayer, offering our own burdens to Christ. Attending Mass and reflecting on the readings of the day can deepen our appreciation of Christ’s sacrifice. Families can renew their devotion by displaying or blessing a crucifix in their home.  

On this feast, we exalt the cross not as a sign of suffering, but as a sign of victory. Let us participate fully to grow in understanding Christ’s love and our call to carry our crosses with joy. Let’s exalt the holy cross together, allowing it to draw us closer to God and one another. 
 
Adam Brill is the director of the Office of Worship.