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Exaltation of the Holy Cross / Khatchverats

Also called: Khachverats (Armenian), Feast of the Holy Cross

Third Sunday of September, National Public Holiday (the following Monday is given off)

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Armenian Apostolic

One of the Five Cardinal Feasts, commemorating the recovery of the True Cross from the Persians by the Byzantine Emperor Heraclius in 628 AD and its triumphant return through Armenia to Jerusalem. A large cross decorated with basil is brought out in procession to a field, and four priests move to the four corners to bless the entire world.

The feast follows a fast (the Fast of the Exaltation) the preceding week. It usually falls on or around Third Sunday of September, National Public Holiday (the following Monday is given off).

It is especially important in Armenian Apostolic traditions. Browse Christian holidays — browse options on Eden.

At a glance

Type
feast
Date type
Semi-fixed
Regions
Armenia
Themes
Holy Cross
Liturgical colour
Red

Common questions

Exaltation of the Holy Cross is observed on Third Sunday of September, National Public Holiday (the following Monday is given off). Moveable feasts shift each year; fixed feasts stay on the same calendar date.

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