Holy Cross Day, also known as the Feast of the Cross, is the day which marks and honours the cross on which Lord Jesus was crucified. So to say, although the Holy Cross can be celebrated any day and every day, but this day has been marked to celebrate Holy Cross across the globe.
About the Holy Cross Day
It is commemorated on the 14th of September each and every year. It is considered to be one of the most eloquent celebrations as per the Christian liturgical calendar. The Christian liturgical calendar is a structured cycle of seasons and celebrations that commemorates the life of Jesus Christ and the events of salvation history throughout the year. What Is the Liturgical Calendar and How Does It Shape Life? Observed on September 14th every year, this day is a way to pay a heartfelt tribute to honour the cross on which Jesus Christ was crucified. The Holy Cross is seen as the emblem of the ultimate sacrifice, of redemption and unconditional love for humanity. The feast of the Cross reminds the believers of how what was initially only suffering turned into happiness and glory. It also symbolises of the victory of life over the inevitable death.
The origin of the Feast of the Cross , the Holy Cross Day
It is believed that back in the 4th century when Saint Helena who was the mother of Emperor Constantine found and discovered the holy Cross in Jerusalem. This landmark discovery led the way to the foundation and establishment of churches and sanctuaries in the honor of the passion of Lord Jesus. Overa period of time, the Feast of the Cross did spread throughout the christian world and this day became a day when one needs to introspect , pray and show respect for community and communal worship.
How is the day celebrated
Holy Cross Day is observed and commemorated with great acclaim and veneration in a lot of churches, specifically in the Eastern Orthodox, Roman Catholic, Anglican and Lutheran traditions. The celebration of this day includes special liturgies, processions, and prayers where the cross is revered. In a lot of communities, symbolic cross, be it wooden or metal cross is decorated with flowers. Procession is carried out while hymns and psalms are sung along in praise of the sacrifice of Lord Jesus that brought salvation to the world.
One of the central themes of the Holy Cross day is the contradiction of agony and happiness. The cross which was once supposedly seen as a tool of torment and death, is now acclaimed as a sign of hope, forgiveness and conquest. The faithful are encouraged to meditate on the suffering of Christ and the love that led Him to embrace the cross for the redemption of all humanity. During Holy Cross Day, sermons and teachings often emphasize how faith in the cross can bring strength and resilience during times of hardship.
In many regions, Holy Cross Day is also celebrated in regards with local beliefs and rituals. Some communities host outdoor gatherings, share meals, and engage in acts of charity as a way of embodying the spirit of Christ’s compassion. Children participate in pageants reenacting scenes from the Passion, and families come together to share stories of hope and perseverance. These customs not only strengthen spiritual bonds but also foster a sense of belonging and compassion among believers.
Importance of the revered day
The Feast of the Cross is a very important and emotional day as it invites the believers to introspect. It is a reminder to inculcate humanity, gratefulness, forgiveness and community feelings in one and all. It gives a commemoration not only the physical cross but the internal feelings and meaning it has to it. It makes the faith even stronger and brighter just like the Lord’s love.