Annually, on September 14, the Church celebrates the Feast of the Exaltation of the Cross. For a school of thought, this great day commemorates the discovery of the relics of Christ’s crucifixion by the Roman Empress, Helena, in the fourth century and the dedication of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. While for others, this feast celebrates the event of Christ’s Paschal Mystery, that awe-filled event in which God, in Christ accepted the experiences of suffering and death, allowing Himself to feel what we feel – even the terror of the sense of being abandoned by God. BETTY AMUKPO tasks some children on the significance of the Exaltation of the Cross. Excerpts:
‘The Exaltation of the Cross is the Feast day many Christians commemorate the Cross’
The Exaltation of the Cross refers to the Feast day upon which many Christians commemorate the Cross upon which Jesus was crucified. This day also celebrates the finding of the true cross, the restoration of the cross to Jerusalem, and the commemoration of Churches built upon the Holy Sepulchre and Mount Calvary. Bible references: • Philippians 2:6-11 • Colossians 2:14 • 1 peter 2:24
• Ojimmadu Sandra
‘The Exaltation of the Cross, marks the discovery of the True Cross by Saint Helena’
The Exaltation of the Cross, observed on September 14, marks the discovery and elevation of the True Cross by Saint Helena in 326 AD. This event holds great significance in Christianity, symbolising Christ’s victory over death and sin through His sacrifice. Once a symbol of shame, the cross now represents hope and glory, illustrating triumph over darkness. As Paul states, “But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Galatians 6:14). It is through the cross that Christ accomplished redemption and forgiveness, restoring our relationship with God. The Exaltation of the Cross also signifies new life and resurrection through Jesus. Paul notes, “Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed” (Romans 6:6). This transformative force allows us to turn away from sin and rise with Christ, welcoming a new existence in Him. In summary, the Exaltation of the Cross honours Christ’s victory, providing redemption and renewal. As we contemplate this event, let us remember the power and significance of Christ’s sacrifice and embrace the glory of the cross in our lives. The Exaltation of the Cross encourages us to reflect on our faith, redemption, and the triumph of love over sin and death, ultimately bringing us closer to God.
• Blossom Akalezi
‘The Exaltation of the Cross signifies Christ’s victory over sin, death’
The Exaltation of the Cross signifies Christ’s victory over sin and death, reminding believers of salvation through the crucifixion. As Jesus said, “When I am lifted up from the earth, I will draw all people to myself ” (John 12:32). It is the symbolising of hope and redemption for humanity.
‘The Cross demonstrates God’s immense love for humanity’
The Exaltation of the Cross honours Christ’s Cross, an instrument made sacred by the Lord’s offering of Himself upon it for our salvation. The feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross commemorates the discovery in 320 A.D of the True Cross of Calvary, and of the tomb of Christ by St. Helena, the mother of Emperor Constantine, which the Romans had buried under a Temple to Venus. The Cross demonstrates God’s immense love for humanity, willing to sacrifice His only Son for our salvation (John 19:17- 41) The Exaltation of the Cross is a celebration of the instrument of Jesus’ sacrifice, symbolising victory, love, and redemption, while encouraging devotion and unity among Christians. The feast is September 14 of every year.
• Promise Anyikaeme
‘Symbol of victory rather than defeat and humiliation’
The Exaltation of the Holy Cross is a feast celebrated by Roman and Eastern Rite Catholics, as well as by some Protestant groups, including Lutherans and Anglicans. The Holy Cross refers to the cross on which Jesus Christ was crucified by the Romans at the request of certain Jewish leaders. At the time, crucifixion was a method used by the state to execute the most infamous criminals. Therefore, Jesus’s crucifixion was intended to portray a dishonourable conclusion to the life of someone who claimed to be the King of the Jews. However, following Jesus’s resurrection, he triumphed over death, and the cross became a symbol of victory, rather than defeat and humiliation. John 3:14-15
• Arnold Akalezi
‘It is also a day to celebrate the finding of the true Cross’
The exaltation of the Cross refers to the feast day upon which many Christians commemorate the Cross upon which Jesus was crucified. It is also a day to celebrate the finding of the true Cross, the restoration of the Cross to Jerusalem and the commemoration of Churches built upon the Holy Sepulcher and Mount Calvary. The feast day is every September 14. Col 2:14 states: “The Cross cancels the record of debt that stood against humanity.” 1 Peter 2:24 states: “On the Cross Jesus bore our sins in His body so that we might die to sin and death.” We should always know that our salvation comes from the Cross.
• Umunnadi Francis Chibunna
