The Spirituality and Miracles of St. Clare of Assisi

The Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross

The feast of the Exaltation of the Cross sprang into existence at Rome at the end of the seventh century. On this feast day, we honor the Holy Cross by which Christ redeemed the world. The Cross -- because of what it represents -- is the most potent and universal symbol of the Christian faith. We revere the instrument by which Jesus Christ, Our Lord, saved us. Once an object of scorn, the cross has become our “glory”.

We, too, embrace the cross which he gives to us, because, as Christians, we are given the honor to share in His sufferings. If we stand up for Him in our beliefs, we can expect to be mocked, ridiculed, and persecuted for our beliefs. But, we can also expect that Jesus Christ will be there with us, in the midst our sufferings, sharing in our pain, and conquering the anguish, despair, and sorrow, replacing it with His peace, hope, and joy.

Father Frank Pavone, Director of Priests for Life, tells us “Jesus Christ was not crucified by the power of wicked men, but by the silence of good men.” Let us speak out boldly our Christian beliefs and never yield to the temptation to remain silent – especially when it comes to defending human life. Let us kneel at the foot of the cross and adore. Let us kneel at the foot of the cross and emulate Him whom we love. Let us kneel at the foot of the cross and surrender our hearts to the One who loves us.

Prayer

We adore you, O Christ, and we bless you because by your holy cross, you have redeemed the world.