By the wood of the cross

Today’s feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross goes back to early days in church history. Saint Helena was the mother of Emperor Constantine (the first Roman emperor to embrace the faith), and Helena is said to have found the actual crucifix of Jesus in Jerusalem in the fourth century, spurring significant devotion to the Holy Cross. This devotion has had staying power perhaps because it helps believers to reflect upon the saving power of Jesus’ death. Today when something presents itself as a “cross” to you, take a few moments to contemplate the cross of Christ. FEAST OF THE EXALTATION OF THE HOLY CROSS