Our Membership
The families and individuals who make up the Holy Cross + Santa Cruz congregation represent a broad cross-section of American life and bridge all demographic divides. We embrace diversity – welcoming all — regardless of socio-economic status or ethnicity. We are black and white, Latino and Anglo, rich and poor, married and single, straight and gay. We strive to be a loving and tolerant witness that respects and celebrates difference and seeks a unity in Christ that transcends all that could otherwise divide us. We endeavor to practice the Law of Love as opposed to the Love of Law. We are intent on serving all who come into our lives.
In keeping with our founding mission, in the late 1990’s, Holy Cross + Santa Cruz established a Latino mission in service to the many new immigrants from Central and South America who have made Kingston their home. In 2011 the mission ceased to be separate entity and was fully integrated into the parish. We understand ourselves as one congregation that worships in two languages but otherwise operates as one faith family in all other aspects of our common life — from leadership, to material support, fellowship, ministry and mission.
Newcomers are always welcomed and their ideas, efforts and presence are genuinely sought and appreciated. Room is made at Holy Cross + Santa Cruz for many points of view. All are valued and all are challenged by the Gospel.
Formal membership in the Episcopal Church is not a requirement for membership in the parish, but is readily facilitated if and when the Spirit moves individuals to make this decision and commitment.