Exaltation of the Holy Cross
Prayer for the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross (September 14). On this day the Church venerates the instrument of our redemption and sees in the Cross the tree of life.
The Exaltation of the Holy Cross prayer is for September 14, when the Church venerates the instrument of our redemption and sees in the Cross the tree of life. The feast traces to the dedication of churches in Jerusalem in the fourth century, and many churches display the Cross for veneration. The prayer invites you to see your own burdens in light of the one who was lifted up to draw all to himself. Kiss or touch a crucifix as you finish, a custom that has been kept since the early centuries, and carry the sign of the cross into your day with new care.
Pray this prayer, and save your favourites, in the Sacred Novenas app
Open in the app App StoreGoogle PlayExaltation of the Holy Cross
We adore You, O Christ, and we bless You,
because by Your Holy Cross You have redeemed the world.
Prayer for the Exaltation of the Holy Cross:
O Lord Jesus Christ, on this feast day we lift high the Cross — not as a symbol of defeat, but as the sign of Your triumph over sin and death. You took the most shameful instrument of execution and transformed it into the throne of your glory and the tree of our salvation.
As Moses lifted up the serpent in the desert, so You were lifted up, that whoever believes in You might have eternal life. The Cross is the new tree of life, planted in the center of the world, bearing fruit that nourishes all who eat of it — Your Body and Blood.
Holy Cross, you are the hope of Christians!
Holy Cross, you are the consolation of those in sorrow!
Holy Cross, you are the strength of those in trial!
Holy Cross, you are the refuge of those in danger!
Holy Cross, you are the light of those in darkness!
Lord, grant that I may glory in nothing except the Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world is crucified to me and I to the world.
May the sign of the Cross be on my forehead, on my lips, and on my heart — always and everywhere. Amen.
Frequently asked questions
When should I pray the Exaltation of the Holy Cross prayer?
Pray it on September 14, on Fridays and when you carry a cross.
How do I pray the Exaltation of the Holy Cross prayer?
Look at a crucifix, read the prayer, and trace a sign of the cross slowly.
Who is the Exaltation of the Holy Cross prayer for?
The suffering, the sick and anyone who wants to love the Cross.
Pray this prayer, and save your favourites, in the Sacred Novenas app
Open in the app App StoreGoogle Play