Area citizens are joining Christians throughout the region to stand and carry life size crosses on Good Friday.
The local effort is part of the Carry the Cross movement, which originated in Sikeston. The goal of the group is to mobilize volunteers along U.S. 63 and 60 in Missouri to stand with 10-foot tall crosses from 7-11 a.m. every quarter-mile. The purpose of the movement is to show that Jesus is alive and leading Christians in America’s communities, the organizers of Carry the Cross said.
In Houston, the goal is to line U.S. 63 through town with Christians holding crosses. Twenty-two crosses have been built.
Jeff McNiell, who is helping coordinate the effort in Houston, encourages the public to get involved individually or as a group.
“Whether you’re able to stand for all four hours or in on-hour or 30-minute shifts with a group, I hope that Christians from all denominations in the area will consider participating,” McNiell said. “This effort doesn’t belong to a church or ministry. It has a singular focus: Jesus.”
The Good Friday 2012 event is designed so that during a regular day in their life, people can step out for as little or as long as they are able, wherever they are in the world, and witness for Jesus Christ.
Pastor David Craig of Carry the Cross states, “From the mayor of a city, a soldier in his camouflage and medical professionals in their scrubs and attire, to construction workers in hard hats, business professionals in suits, to stay at home parents and their children, we want everyone who is moved to witness for Jesus Christ to join us along highways 60 and 63 in Missouri or wherever they are in the world, and hold a cross. It is an inspiring act to see and it is an inspiring thing for the person holding the cross, as well.”
For more information or to get involved, contact Jeff McNiell at 417-260-4343 or jmcniell@yahoo.com.