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HISTORY OF HOLY CROSS
March 1942 - Present
First Chapel
Holy Cross Lutheran Church, the physical plant, has had a dramatic expansion since the small beginning on March 8, 1942, in the home of a member. The first worship service was held on May 10, 1942 in the auditorium of the old Adams School that was located at Ninth and Oliver.
The first chapel was constructed nearby at Dellrose and Murdock. It was dedicated on October 1, 1944.
The growth of the congregation dictated that a larger structure would be needed, so on June 14, 1947 the old Adams School property was purchased. A new church was constructed on the site at Ninth and Oliver. It was dedicated on May 31, 1953. The parabolic architecture was considered an unusual structure, and it brought recognition from across the nation, as well as locally.
As the congregation grew, Christian education for the children was the driving force to build a new educational facility on the same site as the church. The new school was dedicated on March 12, 1961.
A major renovation of the sanctuary was undertaken in 1976 as part of an expansion project that added a Parish Activity Center and adjoining offices for the church and school. The chancel was moved to the south end and a balcony, aisles, and narthex were added. The dedication of the Parish Activity Center and rededication of the sanctuary were held on April 7, 1977.
In 1997, Holy Cross Lutheran Church and School relocated to 600 North Greenwich Road. School classes began on February 24th, and worship services were held in the gymnasium on Palm Sunday, March 23rd. The new facility was dedicated on April 6, 1997.
On June 16, 2002, Holy Cross dedicated its new 850-seat sanctuary, narthex, parlor, music room, nursery, and sacristy. The original wooden cross and granite altar from the former church home were used in the new chancel area
A bell tower and 25 Van Bergen cast bronze bells were dedicated on June 27, 2004.
 
A custom Beckerath pipe organ from Germany was dedicated on August 25, 2002.
In the summer of 2007 we completed the Fellowship Hall adding a wonderful place for our members to gather in Christian fellowship.
God continues to bless our church with many more additions... members. Afterall, the church is the people, even though we have been gifted with a beautiful building it's our brothers and sisters in Christ that host the greatest love.
To read more about our school's history click here.
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