Iconography Project
In 2007 our parish began communicating with an iconographer and his wife in Belgrade, Serbia, Ugljesa and Zvezdana Mileta. Fr. Joseph had seen their iconography in pictures brought back by one of our parishioners from a beautiful Serbian church in Butte, Montana. The Church had been adorned by Ugljesa and other associates from Belgrade. Our correspondence with them and perseverance with the visa process finally resulted in their arrival in Yakima and the beginning of this great effort during Bright Week of 2012.
In the Orthodox Church, iconography isn't just art; it's a profound form of theology and worship. Icons are considered "windows into heaven," serving as a bridge between the earthly and the divine. By surrounding oursevles these images, the faithful connect with the holy figures depicted, like Christ, the Theotokos, and the saints, and are reminded of the Incarnation—the belief that God took on human form. This is why the images aren't realistic portraits but rather symbolic representations meant to reveal spiritual truths.
Learn More About the Iconography ProjectHoly Cross Classes/Groups
Check the current calendar to confirm the times for the following:
Inquirers/Catechism
Fr. Benjamin teaches these classes which are designed to share and teach non-Orthodox and Orthodox alike about the Faith, the Church, its history, and theology. Classes typically meet on Sunday evenings in the fellowship hall.
Christian Education (Preschool – Middle School)
Immediately following the Divine Liturgy on Sunday mornings (Sept – June) our kids meet with their teachers to learn the basics of our Christian faith.
Youth Group (High School) and Young Adults (20-40s)
Youth Group meets most Monday evenings. Young Adults meet most Thursday evenings. View the calendar to confirm when they are going to meet.
Men's & Women's Groups
Men's and Women's groups meet on Wednesday and Tuesday mornings respectively to discuss the teachings of our church fathers.
Chanters/Choir
The chanters and choir meet to prepare on Saturday nights before Great Vespers.
St. John of Kronstadt Orthodox Christian School
For many years, parishioners at Holy Cross Orthodox Church wanted a Christian elementary school to be available for their children. This school would provide sound education within the framework of Christian principles. The purpose of the school would be the academic development of the mind, but also to protect the spiritual formation of the soul. In 2004, St. John’s School opened its doors to five students in grades K-2. With support from the parish, board members, and community, St. John’s has consistently grown in student enrollment, staff, and grade offerings. Our mission and vision, however, is the same. All education, when correctly done, reflects the majesty, order, and goodness of God.
Learn More About the School Support the School's Fundraising Campaign