Follow the Cross: mAIN eNTRANCE pROJECT
We are pleased to share that Session has approved a long-standing goal from our Facilities Master Plan Team (FMPT): moving the large aluminum cross above the Stone Hall entrance to our new main entrance to create a clear, unmistakable entryway. This construction project, backed by our community, is a significant step towards creating a more welcoming church for all who are ready to embrace God's presence. We sincerely appreciate your patience and steadfast support as we strive to transform NPC into an even more inviting sanctuary for everyone.
A Note from Dr. Hylton
Dear NPC Family,
Few things feel more overwhelming than arriving at a large campus, unsure where to go. I know this well—when I first visited NPC’s beautiful grounds in April 2023, my Uber dropped me off on Nebraska Avenue, and I ended up circling nearly the entire perimeter before finding the main entrance for my meeting with a member of the Pastor Nominating Committee.
Turns out, I wasn’t alone! Many of you have shared similar stories of way-finding challenges.
As a community called to welcome all who enter our doors—and blessed with such a remarkable campus—we are thrilled to share that Session has approved a long-standing goal from our Facilities Master Plan Team (FMPT): a clear, unmistakable entrance.
Here’s how it works: Thanks to your generous support, we are relocating the large cross from above Stone Fellowship Hall to its new home atop the elevator wall near the main entrance, as another step of many to make our church more accessible. Now, visitors and members alike can simply “follow the cross”—it will guide them right to our doors!
Construction began Monday, April 21, and is slated for completion in early June. This is not just a practical upgrade; it is a tangible reflection of our commitment to hospitality.
Want to learn more? Join Facilities Council members during Cookies, Coffee, and Community after the 11:00 am service on April 27 in Stone Fellowship Hall.
We are deeply grateful for your partnership in making NPC more accessible and welcoming. See you Sunday—and don’t forget to look up and follow the cross!
In Christ,
Dr. Ray Hylton Sr, Senior Pastor
Follow the Cross Timeline
* subject to change*
Frequently Asked Questions
One of the goals of the recent renovation was to create a new Main Entrance that would draw people into the heart of our church. However, many visitors still mistake the doors at the rear of Stone Hall as the primary entrance. By relocating the Cross, we will create a dramatic and more recognizable Main Entrance for members and visitors to NPC.
No. The main entrance will remain open during construction and this project will not impede any church activities.
The Main Entrance will be more prominent and identifiable with the relocated Cross. It will easily be described and visually understood as the Main Entrance marked by the Cross. Further, the back light of the Cross will be upgraded to include the ability to add color against the modified wall of the Main Entrance. This provides the capability to program shades of color for special seasons or events.
This project to enhance the approach to the Main Entrance was considered as part of the Capital Campaign. While the congregation donated significant funds for the renovation, this project was deferred for future funding. Gratefully, donors have contributed significant funds to enhance the Main Entrance and moving the Cross is one step towards this enhancement.
Rather than patching the limestone where the Cross was mounted, large custom fabricated "medallions" will be affixed to the wall at those locations to provide an outline of the Cross in an understated and meaningful way.
The project began on April 21. The first phase involves scaffolding to facilitate adding of a masonry gabled peak to a section of the church immediately to the right of the Main Entrance doors. This scaffolding will be up for a month or so, while lobby and elevator access is maintained through the Main Entrance. The Cross will undergo some preparation before it is mounted on the new facade in early June.