The rough wooden cross on which Christ was crucified was sought. Helena, the mother of Constantine the Great, came to Jerusalem. Together with Bishop Macarius, she organized an archaeological expedition. On that pilgrimage trip, Elena managed to find and preserve many Christian relics. One of them was a cross that remained at Calvary.
Jesus was not the only one executed on that day. Two robbers were subjected to the same death. The nails supporting the sign “Jesus of Nazareth, king of the Jews” fell from time to time, it was impossible to determine where it was nailed.
But they found a cross on which the Savior was crucified quite easily. Particles from all crosses were applied to a seriously, terminally ill woman. The other one healed her.
According to another version, the deceased was resurrected, who was carried past the cross.
In 614 the cross was taken away by the Persians who plundered the city, but 14 years later it was bought back. They raised the Cross with great triumph, lifting it high and turning in all directions so that many believers could see the shrine. Since then, on the feast of the Exaltation, the priests have been doing the same in the temple. They lift the cross high, turning it on 4 sides.
Two events are remembered in the same day: the acquisition and return of the cross. This day is called elevation, because on this holiday the Cross was always «erected», that is, raised up.
On this day there is always an All-Night Vigil and then a Liturgy. The Primate, in solemn vestment, 5 times «erects» the cross on all sides of the world. The choir sings «Lord have mercy.» Then there is a cross-kissing and anointing with oil. Believers say, “We worship your cross and praise your resurrection.”
At the end of the Liturgy, the clergy go to the middle of the temple and make 3 prostrations. The same is true of the worshippers. This is the only holiday with earthly kneeling. There is a strict fast on the Ascension. On this day it is customary to confess and commune.
Days of celebration
27 September
Charity foundHoly Land.
Soul investment!
