Observe the Exaltation of the Holy Cross At The World's Largest Crucifix
The Feast Day of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross is coming up on September 14th, so you know what that means...
...it is time to make another life-changing pilgrimage!
But first, what is the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, and why is it worthy of a pilgrimage? We are glad you asked:
The Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross celebrates the discovery of the True Cross by St. Helena, the mother of Emperor Constantine, in the 4th century. According to tradition, St. Helena traveled to Jerusalem around the year 326 and located the cross on which Jesus was crucified. The feast also commemorates the dedication of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem in 335, built on the site of Christ’s crucifixion, burial, and resurrection.
Over time, the feast became a way for the Church to honor the cross as the instrument of our salvation and a visible reminder of Christ’s victory over sin and death:
Welcome to the awe-inspiring Cross in the Woods!
Located in Indian River, Michigan, the Cross in the Woods stands at an impressive 28 feet tall and features bronze that is 3/8 to 1/2 inch thick.
Weighing seven tons, the Cross in the Woods portrays Jesus in a more "peaceful" way, omitting the crown of thorns and the wound on Christ's side.
The purpose of this, as per sculptor Marshall Fredericks, was to “give the face an expression of great peace and strength and offer encouragement to everyone who viewed the Cross."
Can you think of a better way to celebrate the Exaltation of the Holy Cross than by visiting the world's largest crucifix? Neither can we!
In addition to the cross itself, the grounds are home to other shrines dedicated to the Holy Family, St. Francis, the Divine Mercy, and many more.
What is a pilgrimage without mass? The Cross in the Woods has that, too, via the on-site chapel.
As always, don't forget to check out the gift shop!
To learn more about the Cross in the Woods and the other shrines at the Cross in the Woods, please visit their website.