Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross is today

The crucifixion is the act by which we are saved and an enduring symbol of our faith.

Today is the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross. The feast celebrates the discovery of the Holy Cross by the Saint Helena, the mother of Emperor Constantine in 326.

LOS ANGELES, CA (California Network) - Today is the Exaltation of the Holy Cross. Pope Francis spoke about the Holy Cross during his general audience in 2016.

"Today, we celebrate the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross. Dear young people, as you return to the regular rhythms of life  after the summer holidays, strengthen your dialogue with God as well, spreading his light and his peace."

The Holy Father continued, addressing those who were ill or suffering. "Find comfort in the Cross of the Lord Jesus, who continues His work of redemption in the life of every man.

To newlyweds, he said, "Make the effort to maintain a constant relationship with Christ crucified, that your love might be the more true, fruitful and lasting."

The feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross commemorates the alleged discovery of the True Cross by Saint Helena, the mother of Emperor Constantine in 326 AD. The cross was discovered near the site of Christ's crucifixion. It was divided into three parts, with one part remaining in Jerusalem, one part sent to Rome, and a third part sent to Constantinople.

 The Church of the Holy Sepulchre was also dedicated on this day in 335.

The holiday is not considered a major occasion in the liturgical calendar and it is not widely celebrated by the laity. In some places, it is customary for some symbol of devotion to be made, such as kissing the crucifix, or the hand of a bishop or priest.

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