The Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross reminds us of the victory of Christ’s Cross, the instrument of His suffering that became the sign of our salvation. Celebrated on September 14, it’s a day to honor the Cross as a symbol of love, redemption, and triumph. This feast also recalls St. Helena’s discovery of the True Cross in the 4th century and the dedication of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem.
Here are some meaningful and family-friendly ways to celebrate at home!
Make a Pop-Up Cross Card
A pop-up card craft is a fun and visual way for kids to focus on the Cross. Use our printable template so that when the card opens, a cross “pops up” in the center. The card reads “We adore You, O Christ, and we praise You!”
Sweet Treat: Hot Cross Buns or Cross-Shaped Cookies
Food is always a fun way to bring a feast day into the home! For this day, choose something simple with a cross symbol:
- Bake (or buy) hot cross buns and talk about the meaning of the cross on top.
- Decorate sugar cookies with a cross in frosting or sprinkles.
- For an easy kid-friendly snack, place pretzel sticks in the shape of a cross on top of yogurt or pudding cups.
Make a Nature Cross
Go on a nature walk and create a cross using sticks, twine, and a few leaves or flowers.
Pray Before a Crucifix
End your celebration gathered around a crucifix in your home. Light a candle and pray the prayer from the Stations of the Cross:
“We adore You, O Christ, and we bless You, because by Your Holy Cross You have redeemed the world.”
Invite each family member to make the Sign of the Cross slowly and reverently.
