The Cross is raised on high,
and urges all the creation to sing
the praises of the undefiled Passion
of Him who was lifted high upon it.
For there it was that He killed our slayer,
and brought the dead to life again:
and in His exceeding goodness and
compassion, He made us beautiful and
counted us worthy to be citizens of
heaven. Therefore with rejoicing let us
exalt His Name and magnify His
surpassing condescension.
from Vespers of the Exaltation of the Cross