On September 14, the Orthodox Christian Church commemorates the Elevation of the Holy and Life-Giving Cross on which our Lord was crucified. This feast is a double commemoration of sorts; we celebrate the finding of the true Cross in 326 by Saint Helen and its lifting up on high for all the people to see, and we celebrate the recovery of the Holy Cross in 614 from the Persians who had taken it as a prize of war. Realizing the significance of the Holy Cross for the life of the world, we so fervently chant:
O most glorious wonder! The most holy Cross, the life-giving Tree, is lifted up on high today and shown to the world. All the ends of the earth give glory, all the devils are affrighted. How great a gift is here bestowed on mortal men! Through Thy Cross save our souls, O Christ, Thou who alone art full of compassion.
The Orthodox Christian community of Roseville will also celebrate a raising of the Holy Cross on January 23, for on this day at approximately 7:30 AM, we will raise and install our gold-gilded Crosses on the bell tower and dome of our new Holy Sanctuary! As the crane is getting set, we will offer a brief prayer, asking the Lord to bless the Crosses that our own parishioners fabricated. They will then be raised up and placed four and five stories up on our construction for all to see. You are encouraged to join us in person or view the raising of the Crosses on our lifestream of construction at www.saintanna.org
May the Holy Cross be the strength, hope, and glory of Orthodox Christians. May the Holy Cross - visible for all to see on East Roseville Parkway - our Lord Who was crucified in the flesh for our salvation, and our Orthodox Christian Faith also be sacred gifts to our beloved community of Roseville.