Elevation of the Holy Cross Byzantine Orthodox Icon September 14 Great Feast Canvas Tapestry Catholic Christian Bible Scripture Christ Gift

The Triumphant Elevation of the Holy Cross: A Beacon of Salvation In the revered tradition of Orthodox iconography, "The Elevation of the Holy Cross" stands as a testament to the transformative power of faith. This sacred image, imbued with profound spiritual significance, commemorates the miraculous discovery and exaltation of the True Cross, the instrument of our Lord's redemption. For faithful Christians, this icon represents the cornerstone of our salvation, inviting us to contemplate the depths of God's love. The Historical Context In 326 AD, Saint Helen, mother of Emperor Constantine, embarked on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem, driven by a divine vision to uncover the Cross of Christ. After excavating the site of Golgotha, three crosses were unearthed, but the True Cross was identified through a miraculous healing. A dying woman was touched by each cross; only the third cross restored her to life. Saint Helen's discovery ignited a beacon of hope, illuminating the path to salvation. Iconographic Significance The Elevation of the Holy Cross icon typically depicts the Patriarch of Jerusalem, Macarius, standing on a raised platform, elevating the Cross for veneration. Surrounding him are clergy, saints, and angels, all gazing upward in reverence. The icon conveys the majesty of the moment: 1. The Cross: Radiant and adorned with precious gems, the Cross shines as a symbol of triumph over death and sin. 2. Patriarch Macarius: Representing the Church, he lifts the Cross, signifying the offering of Christ's sacrifice to the world. 3. Angels: Attending the ceremony, heavenly messengers underscore the cosmic significance of the event. 4. Saints and clergy: United in worship, they exemplify the unity and devotion of the faithful. Spiritual Reflections This sacred image reminds us: 1. Redemption: The Cross embodies the love of God, who sacrificed His Son to reclaim humanity from darkness. 2. Victory: Through Christ's resurrection, death is vanquished, and eternal life is granted to believers. 3. Unity: The Elevation of the Cross represents the universal call to worship, transcending earthly divisions. Contemplation and Adoration As we behold the Elevation of the Holy Cross, let us: 1. Venerate: Honor the sacred instrument of our salvation. 2. Reflect: Ponder the magnitude of God's love. 3. Rejoice: Celebrate the triumph of life over death. In the words of Saint Paul, "May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world" (Galatians 6:14). May this icon inspire our hearts, illuminating the path to eternal life, as we reverence the Holy Cross, our steadfast hope, and salvation. Imagine society being rebuilt around sound Christian ethics and values with faith in Christ as the center of government, business and culture. Join the new crusade with your support of this mission store. Each product purchase includes a donation to WorldVision.org. 100% of the purchase price (no tax or shipping) in effective WorldVision.org charitable impact is achieved through their matching program (https://youtu.be/AK6_LAlPj4M). Chosen gear in this mission store is intended to strengthen and showcase your faith in GOD. Each item is carefully selected for quality and purpose (not the lowest cost). Designs are intentional, time consuming and created to convey a carefully considered message representing multiple elements. Each faith creation is custom made-to-order just for you. Your support of this crusade directly impacts the poor and needy via World Vision and allows me to continue to devote 100% of my time to evangelism for Jesus Christ. Search "The God Ball by Chris Rabalais" using your favorite search engine for music, teaching and other resources being added daily. Thank you for considering this mission and store. Christopher Paul Rabalais About me: Jesus follower, inventor and techno-missionary committed to evangelism and uplifting humanity. I started my first state-licensed business at age 15. The first million-dollar business was achieved in my early twenties. I was completely burned out by 29 and moved to Costa Rica, where I saw poverty first-hand for the first time. GOD touched me and I began a personal crusade to understand why people are poor. I spent the last roughly 25 years (half my life) developing a sports-based solution facing great and supernatural resistance. At age 50 after two life-changing pilgrimages to Israel in December 2018 and April 2019, I made the commitment to serve GOD ONLY and took a legal Vow of Poverty until death. All personal income earned beyond the published U.S. poverty level for one person with no children will be donated to WorldVision.org or another registered and legitimate Christian charity. Product information: A custom wall tapestry is a surefire way to uplift any room’s aesthetics with a personal touch. This 100% Polyester wall tapestry comes with hemmed edges for extra durability to ensure years' worth of decorating bliss. The advanced tapestry printing techniques guarantee crisp detail. NO FRAME is included.