The Old Rugged Cross from 115 year-old timber used in 1890 to support the original belfry of the Methodist Episcopal Church in Grand Junction, comes a new symbol bridging faithful heritage with future horizons.  Weathered wood discarded now shines in the form of a cross as light in the world.

The faithful heritage includes Art Gilbert, lay member and part of his family’s five generations of church members.  Art helped dismantle the church’s belfry in 1950 in order for the new church building to be developed. The belfry timbers have laid at Art’s home for 55 years!

As Lent 2005 approached, sr. pastor Rev. Blaine Scott, staff member Ruth Ripple (Art’s daughter), and lay member Maurina Hickman, wanted to create a cross for the season. The “old rugged cross” came into being when Ruth shared, “I think dad has some old timbers we can use for a cross.”

Through the handiwork of grandkids and friends, that cross was “unveiled” at the Ash Wednesday worship service in which each worshipper nailed hand-written confessions to it before receiving the imposition of ashes.

The cross stands as a symbol of salt and light to a church that is using it’s heritage to grow toward the horizon.

If you have questions please contact Rev. Blaine Scott (church’s pastor) wk. 242-4850, cell 216-4433, Email

Art Gilbert 434-8126