By Kim Alexander, Trinity Methodist Church of Ruston
Every summer, a few things in Ruston are guaranteed: Peach Fest, long days, extreme heat—and a community of students and adults coming together for something bigger than themselves.
This July marked the 36th year of Weekend of the C.R.O.S.S., a local mission event where nearly 200 volunteers served dozens of homeowners across Ruston and surrounding areas. Over three days, work crews tackled a range of projects—rebuilding porches, installing wheelchair ramps, clearing brush, painting, and making minor home repairs. But while the projects matter, Weekend of the C.R.O.S.S. is about more than just what gets built. It’s about who we become in the process.
One homeowner, Ms. Brenda, told her team, “You didn’t just fix my house—you reminded me that God sees me.” Comments like hers echo the heart of this ministry: that service is a two-way street, and that the people we meet often bless us more than we bless them.
Each evening, volunteers gathered at Trinity Methodist Church for a meal and worship—tired from the day’s work but energized by the spirit of community and purpose. Students shared testimonies about the friendships they made and the ways they saw God move. Worship leaders and speakers challenged everyone to think beyond the weekend and consider what it looks like to live out their faith year-round.
We’re especially grateful to Pastor George Lee IV from The Springs and GSU’s Baptist Collegiate Ministry, along with The Healing Place Worship Team from Baton Rouge, who led our evening worship gatherings and on Sunday morning. Their leadership set a powerful tone for the weekend and reminded us why we gather in the first place.
There’s something special about the way this event brings generations together. High school students work alongside retirees. Small group leaders cheer on first-time participants. Homeowners welcome teenagers into their yards and lives. Barriers fall. Relationships form. And faith grows.
Of course, the event isn’t perfect. The heat is real. The work is hard. Paint gets spilled, boards get mismeasured, and tools are sometimes forgotten. But Weekend of the C.R.O.S.S. has never been about perfection. It’s about presence. Showing up. Serving others. And allowing God to do the rest.
As we look ahead to July 2026, we invite you to be part of what’s next. Whether you’re a student, an adult, a church member, or someone who just wants to help—there’s a place for you. Come ready to sweat, laugh, pray, and be changed in ways you may not expect.
Want to learn more or get involved? Visit http://www.wocruston.org. You can also watch the highlight video on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/trinityruston/videos/716909797898423.
