In the accompanying picture, Darrell Bolick shows Pastor Joseph Miller his version of “The Cross in My Pocket.” Darrell has been a member of Lebanon Lutheran Church in Cleveland, North Carolina, for over 60 years. He designs and carves these unique crosses as his way of encouraging people to get closer to the Lord. “Anytime, anywhere, wrap your hand around it and pray,” says Darrell, “and know that Jesus is with you always.”

Pastor Miller explains, “What intrigues me most about this cross is its shape. It’s not a ‘pretty’ cross. Its bent or twisted arms represent not only the agony of Jesus but the distress of the person holding it. You sense very deeply that Christ knows your pain. It seals his solidarity with those who suffer.”

The crosses, made of cedar or white pine, are distributed free to anyone who would like one. If you are interested, call the synod office at 704-633-4861. He says, if you wish to make a contribution, please give to your own congregation to the glory of God.