Raised crosses reveal messages of commitment
Indianapolis
While the Nazarene Missions International (NMI) worship team and band began to warm up the audience, it became apparent that an air of expectancy permeated the dome-turned-worship center. With the blowing of the shofar, the service began with the calling of the nations. A picturesque parade of flags representing the Church of the Nazarene's 149 world areas made its way through the stadium as Wellington Obotte (Kenya) and Tanya Cantarella (Russia) provided narration. The resultant experience was one of expanding the perspectives of Nazarene missions for everyone present. Colorful flags were often matched by decorative costumes and national dress, accompanied by the rhythmic beating of drums.

General Superintendent Paul G. Cunningham, referencing the recent rescue of Boy Scout Brennan Hawkins in the Utah mountains, proclaimed, "We will do almost anything ... pay any price … to rescue the lost." It was a fitting precursor to the service's emphasis and NMI's theme for the next quadrennial: "The Cross: Seize it! Share it!"

Nina Gunter, general NMI director, presented the theme and challenge based on Luke 9:23. She said, "The crucifixion was humanity's greatest mistake, but God's greatest masterpiece." Gunter encapsulated the Holiness message by asserting, "When you seize the cross of Jesus, it means you die to sin. When you seize the cross of Jesus, it means you die to self." She then asked the question, "Are you willing to seize the Cross and share it ... to see it as a symbol of God's unconditional love?"

As the audience raised illuminated crosses, the invitation was given to sign commitment cards and nail them to eight wooden crosses positioned at strategic points in the RCA Dome. In all, 2,067 cards from the estimated 18,000 in attendance were used. Also, NMI officials said 424 individuals indicated a call to missions. The service closed with the invitation to share the message of the cross, dramatically symbolized when a large cross was illuminated with multicolored lighting, shining onto the crowd.

The General NMI Office wishes to thank Dennis Moore and Gladys Hurt for their contributions to the service.
--NCN News