A 6-foot, lighted cross began a journey — leaving the steps of the State Capitol August 7, 2013 —  to visit 82 counties within 82 days. Wednesday, August 21, 2013, the cross made its way through Poplarville and Picayune.

Mission Mississippi chose the 6-foot cross as a symbol for their “Mississippi Glowing for Christ” journey celebrating the ministry’s 20 years of service toward racial reconcilitation and unity in Mississippi.

Arriving at the Pearl River Community College campus in Poplarville, the cross was then walked to the Courthouse where a public devotional was held.

Then is was off to the Health Department in Carriere, where it was picked up by Pearl River Central High School students and athletes who ran the cross to the Northridge Complex in Picayune.

Picayune High School students and athletes picked up at this point and escorted the cross to Memorial Boulevard and Resurrection Life Church, where a Celebration Service was held.

The Celebration Service consisted of prayer for the county, a Mission Mississipi Moment, testimony from FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes) and other elements planned by county-led volunteer groups.

Appreciation to the Pearl River County’s Sheriff’s Department who provided escorts for the students and athletes, making sure this leg of the journey was a safe one. Other counties sheriff departments will conduct similar escorts for their students and athletes.

For more information about Mission Mississippi or Mississippi Glowing, visit www.missionmississippi.org or call 601-353-6477.