Presbyterian Church of the Cross was established in 1958 to meet the spiritual needs of Omaha residents as the city expanded. The church is located in western suburban Omaha on a ten-acre site that ensures ample parking space and room for expansion. The original sanctuary is now a multi-purpose “Fellowship Hall” where dinners, plays and programs are enjoyed. Our current sanctuary was completed in 1966 and is a modified “A” Frame design. Its beauty is enhanced by uniquely designed rock-glass windows, which reflect and diffuse the sunlight in a pleasing and restful manner. The sanctuary seats over 600 individuals when the balcony is used.
A magnificent custom made pipe organ further enhances the beauty of the sanctuary and provides a profound spiritual mood in our worship services. Flexible arrangement of the chancel furniture permits the sanctuary to be used in a variety of worship experiences, which often include musical offerings and youth performances. Fund drives in the 1990’s have raised over $600,000 allowing us to remodel the office complex, add more meeting space, and construct a new nursery and library. In addition, the kitchen was completely renovated into an inviting and functional workspace. The office is equipped with seven IBM compatible computers running Windows ’98 with Internet access. In addition, we have eleven Sunday school rooms, several of which have been redesigned to facilitate the Workshop Rotation Model.
A person attending our worship services would see a congregation that has come to listen to the Word of God. Sermons are intellectually stimulating, drawing from the Bible and life experience. Worship is a family experience with children accompanying their parents and regularly participating in youth choirs and small productions. Spontaneity, humor, prayer and learning help us grow together as a close congregation that includes a good mixture of all age groups from newborns to retired adults. The median age is approximately 45. Most members are college graduates, many with graduate degrees. The majority of our congregation are white-collar workers representing a wide variety of professions. The church membership is 860 with an average of 400 attending Sunday morning worship services.
Two worship services are conducted at 9:00 and 11:10 on Sunday mornings during the school year. Between services we offer education for all ages. Coffee fellowship before and after the Sunday school hour allows us to visit with friends and welcome those visiting our church. During the summer months, it has been our tradition to hold a single service at 10:00 a.m.