Those who chose to be ordained as interfaith ministers of Universal Life Church seek to gain awareness of the varying religions and faiths. To be ordained as an interfaith minister means learning about and respecting different holidays and customs, including the Feast of The Cross. Celebrated in late September, it is a celebration of the cross that Christ was crucified on as a symbol for salvation.
The Feast of the Cross is believed to have begun when St. Helena, who was the mother of Constantine the Great, a Roman Emperor, discovered the cross on her journey to Jerusalem. Thereafter, the Church of the Holy Sepulcher was dedicated at the site where the discovery was originally made. According to the history surrounding the discovery of the cross and the dedication of the church that would house a piece of the cross, a two-day festival began. Those who wished to view the cross and pay homage to it were welcome to attend, pray, and be in awe of the symbol of salvation right in front of their eyes.
There are many practices surrounding the celebration of the Feast of the Cross. Roman Catholics will wear red garments in church. And, should the day fall upon a Sunday, the Feast of the Cross celebration will take place instead of regular mass. Many other rituals such as using liturgical veil and the carrying of the cross take place just prior to it being made accessible for people to pray over and revere as a symbol of salvation.
Just as all are welcome to be ordained as interfaith ministers of Universal Life Church, each person is welcome to take up his cross, bear his burden, and fulfill his purpose with compassion, humility and hope, regardless of his faith or beliefs.