Newsletter September 14th 2025 / The Triumph of the Holy Cross

Mass Readings for the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross

• First Reading – Numbers 21-4b-9: Tired of their journey and food, the people complain against God and Moses. In response, God allows venomous serpents. After repenting, the people are told by God through Moses to look at a bronze serpent for healing.
• Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 78: Hear, my people, how even when you turned from me, I, in my mercy, forgave you and restrained my wrath. Do not forget the works of your merciful God.
• Second Reading – Philippians 2:6-11: Though in the form of God, Jesus didn’t strive for equality with God. He humbled himself, obeying even unto death on a cross. For this, God exalted him above all names.
• Gospel – John 3:13-17: Jesus tells Nicodemus that only he, the Son of Man, descended from and will ascend to heaven. Like Moses’ serpent, he must be lifted up for people to gain eternal life. God sent him not to condemn, but to save.