Today is the feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Spirit commemorating the finding of the True Cross by St Helena, Constantine’s mom. This means, in my neighborhood, that the local ladies will get together to make flowered crosses.
The flowering cross is based on the legend that the cross started blooming the moment Jesus died. The flowers represent a hope in eternal life and resurrection.
In 326 AD, Constantine sent his mom to find the cross. Legend is that she was guided to the site by a fragrant basil plant.
In my neighborhood, bougainvillea flowers are generally used as there are so many. A few days before the 14th, the ladies roam the neighborhood collecting flowers. Then one evening they get together outside in the street to make the flowered crossed that will be taken to the church for the congregation to venerate.
Sometimes sweets and tiropitas are made to share with those participating. But the true joy comes from being together to make something imposrtant to them.
Unfortunately, it was dark and there wasn’t enough light to take decent fotos. However, I did want to document this yearly ritual that these ladies have. I don’t know for how much longer this tradition will continue.
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AI is not invited here.
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14 SEPTEMBER , Greek Traditions for the Feast of the Holy Cross +
BASIL, and the Mysteries of Bread +
The Narrative Within 