Matthew 16:24 | Sermon Topics

September 14, 2025

Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross (Khachverats)

Der Mesrop

On the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross (Khachverats), Der Mesrop delivers an Armenian homily recounting Saint Helena's discovery of the True Cross in Jerusalem and calling the faithful to find the cross in their daily lives through mercy, love, and sacrifice. He then gives an interactive English address to Sunday school children, explaining what 'exaltation' means, retelling the story of Saint Helena finding the cross in a field of wild basil, and inviting the children to find the cross in their homes, church, and acts of love and sacrifice.

John 1:1-14; Matthew 16:24; Matthew 13:45-46; Matthew 7:7

September 15, 2024

The Cross and the Call to Forgive

Not identified in the transcript

On the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, the preacher contrasts childhood grudges with the serious resentments adults justify. Christ’s forgiveness from the cross is presented as the foundation of Christian mercy, healing, redemption, and eternal life. Christians are therefore called to carry their own cross by forgiving and seeking forgiveness, even in extreme circumstances.

Luke 23:34; Matthew 6:12; Matthew 16:24