Exaltation of the Holy Cross

O Cross, * surpassing all the stars in splendour, world-renowned, exceeding dear unto the hearts of men, holier than all things: thou only wert counted worthy to uphold the world’s ransom. Sweet the wood, sweet the iron, bearing so sweet a burden: bring aid to this congregation, who are here assembled to celebrate thy praises.

℣.This sign of the Cross shall be in heaven.

℟.When the Lord shall come to judgment.

Thou alone * excellest in stature all the cedars of Lebanon: for on thee the Life of the world was hanged, on thee was Christ victorious, and death over death did for ever triumph.

℣.We adore thee, O Christ, and we bless thee.

℟.Because by thy Cross thou hast redeemed the world.

O Cross, * exceeding blessed, which alone wast counted worthy to bear the King of heaven, alleluia.

O God, who makest us glad this day by the yearly solemnity of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross: grant, we beseech thee, that we who on earth have learned the mystery of our redemption, may be found worthy of its rewards in heaven. Through thy Son Jesus Christ our Lord, who with thee in the unity of the Holy Spirit, liveth and reigneth God, world without end.

℟.Amen.