“Being Christian,” Pope Benedict XIV wrote, “is not the result of an ethical choice or a lofty idea but the encounter with an event.” A personal encounter no doubt, with the Holy Cross that forever seals our adoption as children of God.
When a Catholic enters the Holy Sanctuary of Church, our gaze is fixed upon one inescapable truth – our Lord died for the forgiveness of our sins. Within the Catholic Church, the cross is not empty. For He is there, crucified. Of course, we know that Jesus was raised from the dead by His own power as the Second Person in the Holy Trinity. And yet we feel the need to be reminded always of what that meant. So often, we hear or read the words “Fear the Lord”. This does not mean fear the wrath and anger of the Lord but rather strive always to please Him, fearing only our own shortcomings.
Today is the Feast Day of the Holy Cross. It is in celebration and recognition of an event that took place in September 335. On September 13 of that year the Constantinian Basilica over the Holy Sepulcher was consecrated in Jerusalem. The following day, September 14, 335 a relic believed to be part of the one true cross was exalted publicly for the first time allowing the people gather in worship before the Holy Cross. (Within Catholic teachings there is a distinct difference between worshiping before the Cross and actually bowing down to the cross. The cross is an object, not God).
While all Christians are easily recognized by their display of the Cross, be it in their homes, churches or worn as necklaces, Catholics can be recognized by their display of the Crucifix. It is the focal point in our Churches and Chapels, our homes (often over a door), rosaries and around our necks. Although it might sound like this difference suggests that Catholics have a superior relationship with God, it’s simple an observance on my part. From the beginning we are taught to focus on the price of our sin, and strive to become worthy of His sacrifice. It’s not a matter of If we sin, we are going to hell but rather If we sin, we have taken up the hammer to drive in the nails.
Today we venerate the Most Holy Cross. Praise and thanksgiving be to God.
Quick Fried Chicken Bites and Russet Wedge Potato Supper
Fried Chicken Bites
2 boneless Chicken Breasts
1-1/2 cups Flour
1/4 cup Cornstarch
Mesquite to taste
Salt to taste
Black Pepper to taste
Cayenne Pepper
Oil for frying
Barbecues sauce for dipping
Blue Cheese Dressing for dipping
Ranch Dressing for Dipping
Cut breasts into strips. Season with Mesquite, salt and pepper. Toss to lightly coat chicken, set aside.
Heat oil in a high-sided skillet to 325 degrees. While the oil heats, place flour and cornstarch in a gallon size re-sealable bag. Season with more Mesquite seasoning and a dash of Cayenne Pepper.
Place chicken pieces in the bag, shake to fully coat each piece. Lay chicken out on a wire rack as the oil rises to temperature. Fry chicken in batches if necessary until cooked through, golden and beautiful, about 5 or 6 minutes, depending upon size.
Drain on paper towels. Arrange chicken on a platter surrounded by a selection of dipping sauces.
Russet Potato Wedges
6 medium Russet Potatoes
Olive Oil as needed
Salt to taste
Black Pepper to taste
Heat oven to 425-degrees. Scrub, dry and cut potatoes into “wedge” style potatoes (6-8 wedges per potato, depending on size).
Line a baking sheet with foil. Arrange the potato wedges on baking sheet and toss to coat lightly in olive oil. Season liberally with salt and pepper.
Place in the heated oven to roast for 30-40 minutes, until deeply golden and crisp, turning once half way through. (Depending upon how thick the cut, another 10 minutes might be necessary. You want the outside golden like a French Fry, the inside soft like a baked potato).
We adore you, O Christ, and we bless You,
because by Your Cross You have redeemed the world.
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