Commemoration
Commemoration of the Appearance of the Honorable Cross in Jerusalem
May 7 Old CalendarMay 20 New Calendar
Life
In the time of Emperor Constantius, the son of Saint Constantine, and Patriarch Cyril of Jerusalem, the Honorable Cross appeared in the morning at the ninth hour over Golgotha, extending to above the Mount of Olives. This Cross was brighter than the sun and more beautiful than the most beautiful rainbow. All the people, both believers and unbelievers, left their work and in fear and wonder gazed upon this heavenly sign. Many unbelievers were converted to the faith of Christ, and likewise many Arian heretics abandoned their malicious heresy and returned to Orthodoxy. Concerning this sign, Patriarch Cyril wrote a letter to Emperor Constantius, who himself inclined toward Arianism. This occurred on May 7, 357. Thus it was shown on this occasion as well that the Christian faith lies not in the worldly wisdom of human sensory reason but in the power of God, manifested through innumerable miracles and signs.
The Christian faith lies not in the worldly wisdom of human sensory reason but in the power of God.
From the Hymn of Praise
Acacius, a soldier of the Most High King,Acacius prepares himself for death,He censes his soul with the incense of prayer;The godless judge asks him:
From the Prologue from Ochrid by St. Nikolai Velimirovich, May 7. Translated by Marcian Sakarya, CC BY-SA 4.0.
Also commemorated on May 7
The full reading for May 7 includes the hymn of praise, a reflection, a contemplation and a homily.
Open May 7 in the reader