Sacramento Japanese United Methodist Church, The Garden Church

History of the Cross Project

By Arlene

“From Him the whole body grows, fitted and held together through every supporting ligament. As each one does its part, the body builds itself up in love.” Ephesians 4:16

Initially, this project was supposed to be a simple one day Scripture art workshop. But, God had other plans. He gave us a vision that would bring our church together in unity under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

The vision became the Body of Christ Cross. We asked members of the congregation to decorate a piece of the cross and the finished pieces were reassembled together into one glorious cross.

What is the significance of the term “Body of Christ”? Jesus is the head of the church, and we as believers make up the church, and therefore, are deeply connected to the work and mission of Jesus. God has placed the parts in the body, every one of them, just as He wanted them to be (1 Cor. 12:18). Each believer is valuable to the church and each of us is a needed part of the body of Christ. This diversity is something to be celebrated and recognized as part of God’s great design for the church.

The project’s completion would not have been possible without the help of many hands.

First, we would like to thank Rev. Motoe for her spiritual support.

Next, Mindy and Sue for their faithfulness and dedication to this project. Their input, encouragement, and hands-on support were invaluable.

Eddie for his help and suggestions throughout this project and for expertly mounting the cross onto the wall with help from Curt and Mitchell.

I would also like to thank the Art Ministry members and others who not only created their piece but one or more other pieces for individuals or groups. Thank you to Mindy, Sue F., Irene O., Frances L., Jayne, Shigeko, Kelvin, Jeannie M., Naomi G., Emi, Sue T., Karen K. and Clare S.

And finally, of course, we thank all of you, the participants. Without your involvement this project would never have come to fruition.

To end, I would like to include a text message that Mindy sent to me regarding the unveiling event of the Body of Christ Cross.

“It’s going to be a wonderful celebration of the church, showing God’s power of working together to make something BIG happen, something that only God could do with willing and dedicated vessels.”

Thank you all for being those willing and dedicated vessels for God.

Dedication of the Body of Christ Cross

The unveiling and dedication of the “Body of Christ Cross” was presented on February 26th after worship service. We now have this glorious cross displayed in our Multi-Cultural Hall!

Replica of the Body of Christ Cross

Located on the wall by the restrooms in the Fellowship Hall, a replica of the “Body of Christ Cross” is displayed with a directory that lists each participant’s piece number and description. We are excited to show God’s love through these beautiful pieces from all the participants!

Arlene, Mindy, and Sue F.
Body of Christ Cross Team