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