Catholicism observes the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross

The Catholic Church observes the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross on September 14, a day dedicated to reflecting on the significance of the cross in Christian faith. While the cross was historically a brutal instrument of Roman execution, it is viewed by Catholics as a symbol of salvation and Christ’s victory over death.

This theological perspective is exemplified in the life of Mary MacKillop, who identified deeply with the cross. Describing it as her ‘sweet rest and support,’ MacKillop viewed human suffering as a means to glorify God. For MacKillop, the cross provided direction and purpose, serving as a central element of her identity and her religious name, ‘Sister Mary of the Cross.’