The Coptic Orthodox Church, led by Pope Tawadros II, is marking the 1700th anniversary of the discovery of the Holy Cross. This event is deeply rooted in Christian tradition and is celebrated annually on September 27. According to church records, the Holy Cross was discovered in 326 AD by Saint Helena, the mother of Emperor Constantine. This year, the church is commemorating this occasion with various events, including a ceremony at the St. Mark's Cathedral in Anba Ruwais.
The story of the Holy Cross is closely tied to the history of Christianity in the 4th century. After the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, the site of the crucifixion, known as Golgotha, was buried under debris and a pagan temple was built on top of it. Saint Helena, driven by her devotion, embarked on a journey to Jerusalem to find the sites associated with Jesus' life, death, and resurrection. She inquired about the location of the Holy Cross and eventually discovered it buried under a pile of rubble.
According to historical accounts, Saint Helena found three crosses buried under the debris. The challenge was determining which one was the actual cross of Jesus Christ. The solution came when a sick woman was brought to the site, and upon touching each of the crosses, she was healed only when she touched the third cross. This miracle confirmed that the third cross was the Holy Cross. Another account mentions the discovery of the nails associated with the crucifixion.
Following the discovery of the Holy Cross, Emperor Constantine ordered the construction of a grand church at the site of the tomb, which later became known as the Church of the Resurrection in Jerusalem. Saint Helena kept a portion of the cross in Jerusalem, encased in a silver casket, while sending another portion to her son Emperor Constantine in Constantinople. The nails from the crucifixion were also sent to Constantinople, where they were used in the emperor's military equipment.
In the Coptic tradition, the feast of the Holy Cross is celebrated on September 27, which coincides with the Coptic date of 17th Tout. This feast has become a significant event in the Coptic calendar, commemorating the discovery of the Holy Cross and the dedication of the Church of the Resurrection. This year, the celebrations will take place from September 27 to 29, marking 1700 years since the discovery of the Holy Cross.
Pope Tawadros II has been actively involved in the celebrations, inaugurating an exhibition of cross-related products and publications at the St. Mark's Cathedral on September 24. The exhibition showcases various items produced by monasteries and churches, highlighting the significance of the Holy Cross in Coptic tradition. The church's events aim to revive the history and importance of the Holy Cross, an integral part of Christian heritage.
As the Coptic Church celebrates this significant milestone, the story of the Holy Cross remains a powerful reminder of the enduring legacy of Christianity. The commemorations in Egypt this year underscore the importance of preserving and honoring the traditions and history of the Coptic Orthodox Church. The celebrations will continue with various events and activities throughout the country, reflecting the church's commitment to its rich heritage.
Key points
- The Coptic Orthodox Church is celebrating the 1700th anniversary of the discovery of the Holy Cross, a pivotal event in Christian history.
- The Holy Cross was discovered in 326 AD by Saint Helena, who found three crosses and determined which one was the actual cross of Jesus Christ through a miracle.
- The Coptic Church commemorates the feast of the Holy Cross on September 27, marking the discovery of the Holy Cross and the dedication of the Church of the Resurrection.
