The journey toward Holy Pascha is an uphill road, a spiritual "exercise" that demands fortitude, patience, and self-restraint. As we traverse Great Lent, our Church, as a loving mother, knows that a believer's strength may falter. For this reason, on the Third Sunday of Lent, which this year falls on March 15, 2026, the Holy Cross is presented in the center of our temples.
By:Evageline Plakas
The Sunday of the Adoration of the Holy Cross is not merely a reminder of the Divine Passion, but a refueling station—a "spiritual oasis" in the desert of the fast.
In worldly terms, the cross is often identified with pain and defeat. In the Orthodox tradition, however, the Cross of the Lord is transformed. As highlighted by "Ekklisia Online," the Cross is projected not as a symbol of suffering, but as a symbol of victory and joy.
It is the banner that precedes the Risen Christ. Its presence in the middle of Lent functions like a lush, leafy tree offering shade to weary travelers. By venerating the Cross, the faithful draw the "life-giving power" needed to sustain their struggle until Holy Week.
"Whosoever Will Come After Me": The Call to Self-Denial
The Gospel reading of the day contains one of the most profound and demanding invitations of Jesus:
"Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me."
This phrase is the foundation of Christian life. The "crucifixion" of our self does not mean self-destruction, but rather the death of passions, egoism, and self-love. It is the voluntary submission of our will to the will of God.
Everyone Bears Their "Own" Cross
One of the most comforting truths of our faith is that God never gives anyone a cross heavier than they can bear. Each person’s personal cross—whether it be an illness, a family difficulty, financial hardship, or an internal spiritual struggle—is tailored to their strength. On this Sunday, we realize we are not alone in this burden; Christ is there to carry the greatest part of it.
During the forty days, we often face acedia—that spiritual fatigue and indifference that whispers to us to give up. Fasting is not just abstaining from food, but a process of "killing" the old self.
The Holy Cross is raised for:
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Refreshment: To cool us spiritually.
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Support: To strengthen knees that buckle from exhaustion.
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Consolation: To remind us that the road to the Resurrection necessarily passes through Golgotha.
On Sunday morning, during the Doxology, the Cross is carried by the priests to the center of the Church, placed on a tray with basil and flowers. The faithful approach with reverence to kiss it.
This act is a public confession of faith. By venerating the Cross, we promise ourselves and God that we will continue the struggle of the fast with renewed courage. The flowers and basil sprigs distributed to the faithful symbolize the fragrance of spiritual life springing from sacrifice.
March 15, 2026, marks a milestone in our journey this year. It reminds us that Great Lent is not an endless road, nor a punishment. It is the preparation for the greatest victory in human history.
Let us draw strength from the Holy Cross. Let us leave behind complaints, fatigue, and despair. The Cross leads the way. If we are crucified with Christ by renouncing our passions, it is certain that we will also rise with Him.
Strength to all for the remainder of Great Lent, and a blessed Resurrection!
