Thursday, July 11, marked the day The Cross of Christ was raised to honor the Lord and Savior at the crossroads of highways 82 and 9.
Side roads were crowded and five tents were filled, as hundreds of folks, weathering the heat, came to watch the magnificent 12-story cross lifted to fit into the massive base pipe and go vertical.
The day was amazing, a testimony to our Lord and for our community — all races, denominations and surrounding counties were represented and unified. The brief program consisted of prayer, an American flag presentation and three verses of “How Great Thou Art.” Afterwards, over 200 people enjoyed delicious barbecue donated by Choctaw County’s Christian Way United.
The prayers of Choctaw, Webster and surrounding counties — for The Cross of Christ to remind Christians of their redeemer and unbelievers to see an unmistakable symbol offering them eternal hope — were answered as the cross took its place in our midst. For those inspired by the Holy Spirit to search for more, a kiosk at the cross’ base will contain information about Choctaw and Webster County churches, tracts on “How to become a Christian” and other Christian literature.
The finishing details to the cross’ construction include lighting (powered by solar energy), landscaping, a concrete pad for the cross, a sidewalk and parking lot, security cameras and benches. Liability insurance will be maintained for the site. Also, the group of volunteer leaders has plans to institute a perpetual Cross of Christ fund, ensuring that the roadside cross memorial will always stand and thrive.
To donate to the Cross of Christ fund, please mail your contributions directly to The Cross of Christ, P.O. Box 433, Eupora, MS 39744 or give at your local church. All donations will be used solely for finishing the cross construction as described above and for perpetual maintenance.
Annual memberships to support the Cross of Christ are now available. Memberships will extend from July through June of each year. Individual family memberships are $25 annually, businesses are $50 annually and churches are $100 annually. You will receive a cling for cars or windows with your membership that states, “I support The Cross of Christ.” Memberships are not tax deductible. However, donations, memorials and honorariums are tax deductible.
Thanks to everyone for your fervent prayers and support. May all Glory be to God!