Cyril of Ierapytnis: The Cross of our Lord is for the Christian faith a leading symbol of sacrifice and sanctificationtranslated

With the appropriate splendor and ecclesiastical magnificence, on Monday, September 14, 2026, the great Despotic feast of the worldwide Exaltation of the Holy and Life-giving Cross was celebrated in the celebratory Holy Parish Church of the city of Ierapetra. On the main day of the feast Rev. Metropolitan of Ierapytni and Sitia, Mr. Kyrillos officiated at the procession of Orthros, presided over the Ascension ceremony, then officiated.

Before the dismissal of the High Priestly Divine Liturgy, His Eminence referred to the theology of the Cross as the pre-eminent instrument and symbol of the redemption of the human race, with a simple theological reason, he emphasized that the Cross of our Lord is for the Christian faith a supreme symbol of sacrifice and sanctification, and foreshadows the Resurrection, which follows the Cross and presupposes the Cross.

He also noted the need to experience the mystery of the Cross of Christ, which, according to the Apostle of the Nations Paul, is a boast for him and for the Church, saying characteristically that: "we did not boast in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ" because "the word of the cross is for those who are defiled but for those who are saved...