The Cross of Jesus – Holy Cross Day

September 14 is observed in the Church calendar as Holy Cross Day. While it may not be among the more widely recognized feasts, it is deeply significant for the people of God. The Cross of Jesus is not a symbol to be hidden away or diminished, but the very heart of our faith and hope.

From the earliest days of the Church, many have missed the true meaning of the Cross. In Paul’s time, the Greeks sought wisdom, and the Jews sought miraculous signs—yet both overlooked the power of Christ crucified. Things are not much different in our own age, as many continue to look for meaning, purpose, or power apart from the Cross.

But like Paul, we boldly proclaim: “We preach Christ crucified” (1 Corinthians 1:23). For it is through the Cross that God brings salvation, faith, and everlasting hope. In a world that longs for help and healing, we hold high the Cross of Jesus, confident that through Him alone we receive forgiveness, life, and eternal salvation.

Join us as we reflect on the central place of the Cross in the life of every Christian and rejoice in the victory of Christ who was lifted up for the world.

Liturgist and Preacher: Pastor Bill Engfehr; Reader: Joe Rathert

Order of service:

Holy Cross Day, Sep 14, 2025

Readings:

Psalm reading is from Psalm 119:169–176

Old Testament reading is from Numbers 21:4–9

New Testament reading is from 1 Corinthians 1:18–25

Holy Gospel is from John 12:20–33

Songs and Hymns:

In the Cross of Christ I Glory

Text by John Bowring
Tune by Ithamar Conkey
Public domain

Lift High the Cross

Tune: Sydney H. Nicholson, 1875–1947; Sydney H. Nicholson, 1875–1947
Text: George W. Kitchin, 1827–1912; rev. Michael R. Newbolt, 1874–1956, alt.; (sts. ref–5): tr. Leopoldo Gros, 1925–2013
© 1974 Hope Publishing Co.
Used with permission: LSB Hymn License #110001220

Beneath the Cross of Jesus

Keith Getty, Kristyn Getty
© 2005 Thankyou Music Ltd
Used with permission: CCLI license #20286740

The Power of the Cross

Text and tune by Keith Getty and Stuart Townend
© 2005 Thankyou Music
Used with permission, CCLI license # 20286740

Come Unto Jesus

Jordan Kauflin, Laura Story, Matthew Merker
© 2023 Getty Music Hymns and Songs; Getty Music Publishing; Jordan Kauflin Music
© 2023 Laura’s Stories and Songs; Matthew Merker Music
Used with permission: CCLI license #20286740

Savior, When in Dust to Thee

Text: Robert Grant, 1779–1838, alt.
Tune: Joseph Parry, 1841–1903
Text and tune: Public domain

Lift High The Name Of Jesus

Tune: Ed Cash; Fionán de Barra; Kristyn Getty; Keith Getty
Text: Kristyn Getty; Keith Getty; Fionán De Barra; Ed Cash
Tune and Text: © Getty Music; © Fionan De Barra Pub Designee; © Capital CMG Publishing
Used with permission: CCLI license #20286740

Liturgies:

Gloria in Excelsis

Text: Stephen P. Starke

Sanctus

Text: Stephen P. Starke

Agnus Dei

Text: Stephen P. Starke

Recording:

Audio:

Video:

Watch on YouTube

Announcements:

Sunday, Sep 14:

Worship Service (Pastor William Engfehr): 9 AM to 10:15 AM

Sunday School and Youth Confirmation: 10:30 AM to 11:45 AM

Sanctuary.

Adult Bible Study and Youth Confirmation: 10:45 AM to 11:45 AM

Downstairs.

Wednesday, Sep 17:

Men’s Bible Study: 6:30 AM to 7:30 AM

Downstairs.

Jr & Sr High Youth Group @ Staake Home: 6:30 PM to 8 PM

Thursday, Sep 18:

AA Meeting: 6:30 PM

Downstairs.

Saturday, Sep 20:

Women’s Bible Study: 10 AM to 11:30 AM

AA Meeting: 1:30 PM