What Is the Elevation of the Holy Cross in the Orthodox Church?

The Elevation, or Exaltation, of the Holy Cross is a major Orthodox feast centered on the Cross of Jesus Christ.

What historical events are remembered? The feast is associated with the finding of the Cross in Jerusalem and its later restoration after it had been taken in war.

Why is the Cross venerated? Through Christ it became the sign of sacrificial love, victory over death, and salvation.

For Orthodox cross symbolism, see Why Does the Orthodox Cross Have Three Bars?.