In Constantinople, the cradle of Orthodoxy, there was a beautiful custom. In the last month of summer, in August, when the city was choking with heat and infectious diseases, the Cross of our Lord was carried out from the imperial palace. Solemnly, he was carried first to St. Sophia. There the Cross was exhibited for worship and the consecration of waters was carried out. Then, all the same, the procession, carried throughout the city.
The incorrect translation of the Greek expression “cross procession” (origin) became the name for the holiday in Russia. To clarify, they began to add the Russian word “execution”.
Although all local churches already celebrated the removal of the Cross, it came to us only in the 14th century. The complex name was quickly replaced by a simpler one: “Honey Spas”.
Patriarch Filaret, in 1627, ordered on August 1 (in the old style) to make processions throughout the country, and to consecrate the water with a Small Order.
Today, in all churches, on August 14, the Cross is taken to the center of the temple at the morning and left until the evening service on Saturday, for worship. In addition to the consecration of water, honey is lit on this day. Hence the second name of the holiday. On the same day begins a strict Assumption fast. He is short, on the Assumption of the Virgin, August 28, you can already break.
“Rejoice, honest Tree,” says Tropar, “the mystery of universal redemption has been accomplished on you!”
Yes, a great miracle was performed on the Cross, but the way to it was long and difficult. So we should take our cross and carry it with humility and prayer until we reach heaven, where there is only the love and glory of God.
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