The Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross is celebrated on September 14th, commemorating the finding of the True Cross by Saint Helena and its recovery from the Persians.

This feast has two historical origins: the dedication of churches built by Constantine on the site of the Holy Sepulchre and on Calvary, and the recovery of the relic of the True Cross from the Persians by Emperor Heraclius in 629 AD.

The word "exaltation" means "lifting up" or "raising high." On this day, Catholics honor the Cross not as an instrument of torture, but as the means of our salvation and the ultimate symbol of God's love for humanity.

Feast Day: September 14
Significance: Celebration of Christ's victory over death through the Cross
Scripture: "We must glory in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ" (Galatians 6:14)