The Cross

We carry in the cross as a symbol of a people on a journey led by Christ who comes before us. It is through Christ that we come to meet God. We follow the cross out of worship because Christ leads us out into the world.

When you hold the cross, use both of your hands. Hold it as close to the bottom as possible without making it shake or wave in the air. It can be a little heavy. You should hold it away from your body as much as you can.

When you carry the cross, you will be the first one in the procession. Start walking when the congregation begins to sing the first hymn. When you get to the font, pause and bow. Then walk to the stand that holds the cross. Take your time to put the cross in its stand. You want to make sure it does not make any noise as it comes to rest in its place. Then, stand and wait until the choir is in its place. At this point, you can go out into the congregation to sit.

When you are asked to carry the cross, you must also carry it out of the service. When the last hymn begins to play, leave your seat and come up to get the cross. Usually you will walk to the back when the congregation begins singing, but always look to David or the choir for your cue. Once you are at the back of the sanctuary, turn and stand still until after the charge and benediction. Then you may put the cross down.