Gallery of Photographs

09/14/10: GREAT FEAST of the Elevation of the HOLY CROSS

(published September 14, 2010)

In cathedrals and monasteries, a special elevation or "Exaltation" is performed by the Bishop or Dean, standing in the center of the church holding the precious Cross and flanked by Servers with liturgical fans with representations of Cherubim. He takes the cross in his hands, and raises it above his head. The Deacon standing before him with incense offers petitions, to which the choir responds, chanting, "Lord, have mercy" 100 times. As they chant, he makes the sign of the cross with it three times, then slowly bows down to the ground, and stands up again raising the cross above his head as before. This process is repeated five times to the four points of the universe (compass) and then again facing East.

(click picture to enlarge)

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