For Lent 2024, FUPC’s theme is “Lift High the Cross.” We’ll be exploring the crosses you can find at the church throughout the Lenten season. How many can you find?

Our first example is the cross in the Sanctuary. It hangs from the ceiling, dominating the space and reminding us all that Jesus Christ gave His life for our salvation.

The theme is taken from the familiar old hymn, “Lift High the Cross” by George Kitchin and Michael Newbolt. Written by Kitchin in 1887, it was first published in 1916 in Newbolt’s revised form. Sydney H. Nicholson wrote the tune specifically for these words.

Unlike the hymns we sing on Good Friday which reflect on the pain and suffering of the cross, this song is one of triumph, urging us to lift the cross boldly and share the Good News of the gospel.

“Lift high the cross, the love of Christ proclaim/ till all the world adore his sacred name,” the song begins.”Come, Christians, follow where our Savior trod/ our King victorious, Christ, the Son of God.”