Exaltation of the Holy Cross – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff

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Exaltation of the Holy Cross – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff

Msgr. John Esseff reflects on the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross. He explains how, for the first centuries of Christianity, the cross was not the central symbol of the faith, since crucifixion was still a horrifying reality in the Roman world. Instead, the fish served as the identifying sign. Over time, the Church came to embrace the cross as the true sign of salvation, recognizing that Jesus’ death was not merely an execution but a free offering of His life. Msgr. Esseff vividly describes the brutality of scourging and crucifixion, noting the suffering Christ endured in body and spirit. Yet, the mystery of His death lies not only in the horror of the method but in His triumph over death itself. By laying down His life, Jesus revealed that the Father’s will—not human power—was the reason for His sacrifice.

Msgr. Esseff then connects the cross to baptism, teaching that in baptism we are joined to Christ’s suffering, death, and resurrection. Death no longer has mastery over the baptized, for we share in His victory. The cross, once a symbol of shame, becomes a sign of triumph and eternal life. Drawing on the Old Testament account of the bronze serpent raised by Moses, he highlights how Christ’s lifting up on the cross brings healing and redemption. The sign of the cross itself carries deep spiritual power in prayer, blessings, and daily life. For this reason, he encourages keeping a crucifix present in homes and reverencing it as the sign of our salvation, union with Christ, and assurance of eternal life.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions

How does understanding the brutality of crucifixion deepen my appreciation for Christ’s sacrifice on the cross?
In what ways does baptism connect me personally to Jesus’ suffering, death, and resurrection?
How do I experience freedom from the fear of death through Christ’s victory over it?
When I make the sign of the cross, do I truly recognize its power as a proclamation of redemption?
How can I allow my daily sufferings to be united with Christ’s passion for the sake of my salvation and the salvation of others?
Do I keep the cross present in my home and heart as a reminder of Christ’s triumph and my eternal destiny?
How does the image of the bronze serpent lifted up by Moses help me understand the meaning of Christ lifted on the cross?
In what ways am I called to witness to the cross publicly, even when it may cause discomfort or hesitation?

Msgr. John A. Esseff is a Roman Catholic priest in the Diocese of Scranton. He served as a retreat director and confessor to St. Teresa of Calcutta. He continues to offer direction and retreats for the sisters of the missionaries of charity around the world. Msgr. Esseff encountered St. Padre Pio, who would become a spiritual father to him. He has lived in areas around the world, serving in the Pontifical missions, a Catholic organization established by Pope St. John Paul II to bring the Good News to the world especially to the poor. He continues to serve as a retreat leader and director to bishops, priests and sisters and seminarians, and other religious leaders.