The Third Sunday of Great and Holy Lent holds a special place in the Orthodox Christian calendar. Known as the Sunday of the Veneration of the Holy Cross, this day is a profound reminder of Christ’s sacrifice and a source of spiritual strength for believers as they journey through the Lenten season.
The Significance of the Holy Cross
The Holy Cross is not merely a symbol of suffering but a beacon of hope, victory, and eternal life. On this Sunday, the Church places the Life-Giving Cross before the faithful to refresh and encourage them. As St. Paul reminds us, “Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires” (Galatians 5:24). The Cross calls us to embrace sacrifice, humility, and perseverance, mirroring Christ’s journey to Calvary.
This commemoration is deeply tied to two other major feasts: the Exaltation of the Cross (September 27) and the Procession of the Cross (August 1). Together, these observances highlight the Cross as the ultimate symbol of Christ’s triumph over death and sin.
A Spiritual Oasis in the Lenten Desert
Great Lent is often described as a spiritual desert—a time of fasting, prayer, and repentance. The Sunday of the Holy Cross serves as an oasis in this desert, offering comfort and renewal to weary souls. Just as the Israelites found relief in the bitter waters of Marah when Moses sweetened them with wood (Exodus 15:23-25), the Cross sweetens the bitterness of our Lenten struggles.
The Cross is also likened to the Tree of Life in the Garden of Eden. Placed in the middle of Lent, it reminds us of Adam’s fall and Christ’s redemption. Through the Cross, condemnation is abolished, and eternal life is offered to all who embrace it.
The Icon of the Veneration of the Cross
The iconography of this feast is rich with meaning. The most common icon depicts Patriarch Macarius elevating the Cross, surrounded by clergy, laity, and St. Helen, the mother of Emperor Constantine. In the background, the Church of the Resurrection in Jerusalem symbolizes the victory of Christ over death.
Another icon shows the Cross adorned with flowers, with Christ blessing the faithful from above. This image captures the essence of the veneration service, where believers chant, “We venerate Your Cross, O Christ, and Your holy Resurrection we glorify.”
The Liturgical Celebration
The Sunday of the Holy Cross is marked by the Divine Liturgy of St. Basil the Great, preceded by Matins and Great Vespers. The service includes a solemn procession with the Cross, which is venerated by the clergy and congregation. The hymns of the day, such as the Apolytikion and Kontakion, beautifully express the joy and hope that the Cross brings.
Apolytikion (First Tone):
“O Lord, save Your people and bless Your inheritance; grant victory to the faithful over their adversaries. And protect Your commonwealth, by the power of Your Cross.”Festal Kontakion (Grave Tone):
“No longer does the flaming sword guard the gate of Eden, for a marvelous quenching is come upon it, even the Tree of the Cross. The sting has been taken from death, and the victory from Hades. And, You, my Savior, has appeared unto those in Hades saying: Enter again into Paradise.”
A Call to Embrace the Cross
The Sunday of the Holy Cross is a powerful reminder that our Lenten journey is not in vain. Through the Cross, we are invited to share in Christ’s suffering and His ultimate victory. As we venerate the Cross, we are filled with hope, strengthened for the remainder of Lent, and prepared to celebrate the glorious Resurrection of our Lord.
Let us take this opportunity to reflect on the meaning of the Cross in our lives. May it be a source of comfort, renewal, and inspiration as we continue our Lenten pilgrimage toward Pascha.
Engage with the Tradition:
How does the Veneration of the Holy Cross inspire you during Lent? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!