The Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross in the Armenian Apostolic Church

Today the Armenian Apostolic Church celebrates this important feast.
This article presents history, liturgy, traditions, expert commentary, and official church views.
The feast remains one of the most meaningful days of the Armenian liturgical year.

Introduction & Historical Background

The Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, known as Khachverats, honors the raising of the True Cross in Jerusalem.
Armenians celebrate it on the Sunday between September 11 and 17.
The tradition recalls a long and inspiring history.

In the fourth century, Queen Helena traveled to the Holy Land to identify Christian sacred sites.
She discovered the True Cross according to a miraculous sign.
Emperor Constantine later built the Church of the Holy Sepulchre to protect the relic.

In 614 AD, Persians captured Jerusalem and carried the Cross to Ctesiphon.
Years later, Emperor Heraclius recovered it with help from Armenian soldiers.
He raised the Cross again on Golgotha, restoring hope to Christian believers.

“The Exaltation of the Holy Cross reminds us that through the Cross salvation entered the world.”
— qahana.am

Symbolism of the Cross

The Armenian Church sees the Cross as the main symbol of salvation.
It unites heaven and earth through Christ’s sacrifice.
Each part carries a deep message.

• Lower base: symbol of breaking the gates of Hell.
• Upper head: symbol of opening Paradise.
• Right arm: symbol of blessings given to all people.
• Left arm: symbol of victory over darkness.

Many believers call the Cross the “life-giving tree.”
St. Gregory of Narek described its light as brighter than the sun.

“The radiant Cross stands in the center of the universe, shining brighter than the sun.”
— St. Gregory of Narek

Celebration in Armenia

Liturgical Practices

Clergy prepare a decorated cross on the eve of the feast.
They cover it with basil and flowers.
During liturgy, the Cross is raised to bless all four directions.

This ritual recalls the raising of the Cross on Golgotha.
It symbolizes the spreading of Christ’s victory across the world.
The blessing brings peace and hope to the faithful.

Folk Traditions

Khachverats includes many folk customs that differ across regions.
Families prepare festive meals and gather relatives together.
Lamb dishes and pilaf are common at the table.

The next day is often a memorial day for the departed.
People visit cemeteries and light candles.
The feast also signals the coming of autumn.

Modern Perspectives & Expert Commentary

Church leaders speak about the meaning of the Cross today.
They remind believers that sacrifice leads to renewed hope.
The Cross remains a symbol of strength.

“The Holy Cross remains the eternal sign of victory for our people.”
— His Holiness Karekin II

Scholars also highlight the Cross’s cultural importance.
Dr. Christina Maranci studies its role in khachkars and church art.
Fr. Mesrop Parsamyan connects the raising of the Cross with calls for justice and peace.

Key Dates and Reflection

• c. 326 AD — Discovery of the True Cross.
• September 13 — Dedication of holy sites.
• September 14 — Feast of Exaltation.
• 614 AD — Persians seize the Cross.
• 628–629 AD — Return of the Cross to Jerusalem.

The feast calls believers to reflect on Christ’s victory.
The Cross stands as a symbol of endurance and unity.
Khachverats combines history, ritual, and spiritual reflection.

“May the Holy Cross be a sign of courage and consolation to our people.”
— Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin

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Notes: This article is based on traditional Armenian teachings and public statements from the Mother See. Historical facts reflect Christian sources regarding Queen Helena, the Persian capture, and the return of the Cross.

Published: September 14, 2025
Source: qahana.am

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