Agape and catechesis – The Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross

On this day we commemorate: Saint John of Prislop, the Holy Martyrs of Dobrogea—Macrobie, Gordian, Ilie, Zotic, Lucian, and Valerian—the Consecration of the Church of the Resurrection in Jerusalem, the Pre-Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, Saint Cornelius the Consecrated Martyr, Saint Cyprian the Consecrated Martyr, Bishop of Carthage, Saint Ketevan the Martyr, Queen of Georgia, Saint Hierotheos the Younger of Iviron, and the Sunday before the Exaltation of the Holy Cross.

The Pre-Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross prepares us spiritually for one of the Church’s most important feasts, dedicated to the Holy and Life-Giving Cross of the Savior. The Cross, which was once a sign of shame and condemnation, has become, through Christ’s sacrifice, a sign of divine love, of victory over sin, and of hope in the Resurrection. During these days, the Church calls us to view the Cross not merely as a symbol of faith, but as a testimony to the love through which Christ gave Himself for the salvation of the world.

This day of preparation urges us to examine our souls and to understand that following Christ also means taking up our own cross through patience, faith, and love. As we approach the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, we are called to leave despair behind and view life’s trials in the light of the Resurrection, placing our hope in God’s power and mercy.

We warmly welcome you to the Chapel of the Saint Thecla Foundation, in a warm and welcoming setting!