The Memorial Committee of Park Hill Christian Church in Kansas City, Missouri, commissioned Conchita Reyes in 1999, to design  the "Celebration Cross" for the Narthex. The liturgical  symbols were designed,  hand carved and finished  by the artist.

Cross production and installation: Todd Berry, John
                                                                  Riley, April Pugh,
                                                                  Chris Ferguson and
                                                                  Ken Dunard.

Lighting designed by:  Derek Porter Studio.

Lighting instal­lation by:  Park Hill Christian Church Property Department: Don Kimble, Walt Morris,
                                            Jim Cordonier, Dave
                                           Hockensmith and Carl  Starkey. 

Photographer:  Lightfoot Studio. ©  1999

Artist:  Conchita Reyes.

Liturgical designs have been used through the ages to convey a belief or message. The "Celebration Cross" was designed to highlight significant religious thoughts and events to inspire people who come to the Church in celebration of their faith. The designs on the "Celebration Cross" incorporate familiar symbols with contemporary ones developed by  the artist, Conchita  Reyes.

To understand the meaning of each of the symbols please read below.

The Cross:  Beginning at the base

1. Baptism and Eternity. The scalloped Shell has long been one of the symbols of baptism; the Snail Shell is used by the artist to convey eternity.
2. The Prophesy of Christ to Come. With the Fish symbol of faith, Christ is surrounded by the twelve disciples, each with his own personality.
3. The Covenant and Promise. This symbol depicts the story of Noah and his covenant with God.
4. The Star of the East. This Star announces the birth of Jesus and the celebration of His birth.
5. Jesus' Triumphal Entry Into Jerusalem. The Palm leaf has long been the symbol for this story.
6. King of Kings. Although some believed that Christ would be an actual king, the thorns remind us  of the real  Crown that  He wore.
7. The Lord's Table. These symbols remind us of the celebration at the table each Sunday.
8. The Peace of God. The Dove is a symbol often used when we say "The peace of God be with you."
9. Grief and Renewal. The Tears of Grief become the rain of renewal as they reach the sun and moon.

Arms of the Cross:  Represents those who celebrate and serve.
 
Left arm, from left to right:

1. Single Parent Family
   

     2.  Clergy with Symbols of Worship

     3.  Those Who Are Challenged
 

Right arm, from right to left:

     1.  Caretakers of God's House

     2.  The Displaced Need

     3.  Liturgical Dance of Celebration