Why do we exalt the Cross?
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On September 14, the Church celebrates the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross. But why do we “exalt” the Cross?
The word “exalt” means to raise high, to lift up. So, in a sense, we are doing just that when we make the Sign of the Cross, when we venerate (kiss) a crucifix, or when we place a crucifix in a prominent place in our homes or churches. We are acknowledging that the Cross is important and that Jesus, who died on the Cross, is even more so.
The Sign of the Cross is one of the most basic and essential prayers in our toolbox as Christians. And it all begins with making the sign of the Cross on our bodies. In doing so, we are not only proclaiming our belief in the Trinity. Father, Son and Holy Spirit, but also affirming our belief that Jesus died on the cross to save us from our sins. The Sign of the Cross is a powerful reminder that we are never alone; God is always with us.
When we venerate (kiss) a crucifix, we are showing Jesus that we love Him and trust Him. We believe that He is truly present in His holy Sacrament of the Eucharist. Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity, and are not afraid to show Him how much we love Him. Venerating a crucifix is also a great reminder that Jesus died for love of us and that if we want to receive eternal life, we must follow in His footsteps by loving others as He loved us.
And finally, when we place a crucifix in a prominent place in our homes or churches, perhaps over our front door or above the altar, we are making it clear to everyone who enters that Christ is king and Savior and Lord. We are also proclaiming our belief that through Christ’s death and resurrection, He conquered sin and death once and for all.
So let us exalt the Cross today! Let us raise it high! Let us proclaim to all who will listen that Jesus Christ is Lord! Alleluia!
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean to exalt the Cross in Catholic faith?+
To exalt the Cross means to raise it high and acknowledge its sacred importance as the instrument of Jesus's redemptive sacrifice for our sins. We exalt the Cross through making the Sign of the Cross, venerating crucifixes, and displaying them prominently in our homes and churches as a powerful proclamation that Christ is King, Savior, and Lord. This practice affirms our belief in the Trinity and Jesus's victory over sin and death through His resurrection.
Why do Catholics kiss or venerate the crucifix?+
When we venerate a crucifix by kissing it, we express our love and trust in Jesus while honoring His sacrifice of dying for our sins. This act is a tangible reminder that Jesus died out of love for us and calls us to follow His example by loving others as He loved us. If you're looking to deepen this practice, Catholically.com offers beautiful crucifixes for veneration in your home or prayer space.
What is the significance of the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross?+
Celebrated on September 14, the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross is a sacred day when the Church invites us to reflect on and honor the redemptive power of Christ's crucifixion. This feast encourages us to proclaim our faith boldly, lift up the Cross in our hearts and homes, and renew our commitment to following Jesus through daily acts of love and service. It's a perfect time to display a crucifix prominently in your home as a symbol of Christ's kingship and our salvation.
How should I display a crucifix in my Catholic home?+
A crucifix should be placed in a prominent location in your home where it serves as a visible reminder of Christ's presence and lordship, such as above your front door, in your bedroom, or in a prayer corner. Displaying a crucifix prominently sends a clear message to all who enter that Christ is King and Savior, and it helps your family remember daily that we are never alone because God is always with us. Catholically.com carries a beautiful selection of crucifixes for every home and prayer space.
