Sept. 16 - Exaltation of the Holy Cross

Our student Zareh holding the crafts of the day!

This Sunday was the first day of our new year of Sunday School! We had a great day learning about the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, making crafts, and eating pizza in our 2 new classes. Keep reading for lessons we covered and printable activities!

Gospel Reading: John 3:13-21

Exaltation of the Holy Cross (Khach-ve-ratz)

Importance: Armenians are part of the cross's rescue and adoration. The most important feast of the cross, it is one of the five major feasts of the Armenian Church.

What: The Persians had seized the cross when they conquered the city of Jerusalem. Leading a coalition of forces (including Armenians), the Emperor Heraclius recaptured the cross and pass through Armenia with it where it was repeatedly raised up and venerated.

When: 7th century, 629 being the year of Heraclius' march through Armenia

Who: Emperor Heraclius

Our student Max holding up the cross-church basil holder in honor of Exaltation of the Holy Cross

Where: Jerusalem, Persia (modern Iran), Armenia

Celebrated in the Armenian Church: The Sunday nearest September 14; the liturgy is marked with an "antasdan" service (blessing of the fields) during which the processional cross is adorned with basil (a symbol of royalty) and the four corners of the church are blessed as a symbol for all the world.

Activities

Cross Coloring with Lesson Info

Cross Maze

For additional reading: https://vemkar.us/resources/sacred-scripture/exaltation-of-the-holy-cross/

Sources: Western Diocese of the Armenian Church, Vemkar - Eastern Diocese