The Visual Signs of Lent
February 20, 2026
The Chosen: Becoming Disciples
March 2, 2026
Why crosses?
Jesus Christ carried the cross that he would be crucified upon. In the cross, he also carried the purposes of God. The cross is not only an instrument of suffering; it is the sign through which redemption unfolds.
In our homes and in our worship, crosses accompany us on the road of faith. They hang above doorways, rest on bedside tables, mark graves, and stand at the center of our sanctuaries. They are held in hands during prayer and traced across our bodies in blessing. Over time, they become more than objects. They become companions.
This Lenten exhibition brings those personal companions together as a shared witness.
We’re grateful to all who have entrusted their crosses to this display. Each one is unique. Each one tells a story. More crosses are being prepared for display this week, so keep checking back to discover new stories and witnesses. If you have a cross you would like to contribute, there is still time. Simply bring your cross to Room 301, The Center for Wellbeing, and complete the brief form provided.
Here are just a few of the stories told in the crosses on display.
A Mosaic: “I saw it in a dream. It is the first mosaic I ever made, and this is the first time it has been hung.”
A cross made from stones gathered at Our Lady of Medjugorje in Bosnia: “It is a symbol of the faithful who trod on these steps before us.”
San Damiano Cross: “A dear friend from college sent this cross and a smaller version to us. My husband held the smaller cross in his hands throughout his care in hospice.”
U. S. Marine Corps’ Cross: “My parents gave me this cross when my husband was deployed for the first time. Now our son is deployed.”
Explore the exhibition through a scavenger hunt
There are many stories to discover! The Arts Council has created a Lenten scavenger hunt to guide you through the exhibition. Visitors are invited to search for crosses made of rock, clay, nails, reeds, and much more—checking them off as they go.
The scavenger hunt also provides spiritual prompts to guide your own reflection:
- What cross is most interesting to you?
- Identify a cross you might like to write a poem about.
- Where would you place a cross in your home?
- What kind of cross would you make for yourself?
This exhibition is more than a display of sacred art. It is a communal testimony and an invitation. It invites us to consider not only the cross Christ carried, but the crosses that shape our daily discipleship. If you are inspired to write a poem, please send it to us!
The Rev. Dr. Linda Privitera will share more stories about the Crosses on our podcast, Art Tags.
