Father Jeff Jencks is the fourth rector of Holy Cross Episcopal Church since its founding in 1976. His previous parish was St John’s Episcopal Church in Cumberland Rhode Island. He served at St Johns for twenty two years including a three year period where he was Priest-in-Charge. During his tenure at St. John's he evangelized a one hundred fifty year old Church for two decades in spiritual renewal and growth. Many outstanding achievements were the products of active lay involvement including rehabilitation of Church buildings that had been left for years of decay and neglect. Today St John’s is a symbol of renewal to the Episcopal Diocese of Rhode Island.

While serving at St John’s, Fr. Jeff was heavily involved in the community. He worked with the Rhode Island Army National Guard and the Family Court to develop a program for troubled teenagers who had broken the law. Many of the teenagers who successfully completed Operation Guardian were spared time in the Youth Correctional Center. In the year 2000, Operation Guardian came in second place nationwide in the Minute Man Mike award. Because of this achievement Fr. Jeff received both the Rhode Island commendation and the Rhode Island Star medal.

Pastoral Services

Worship

Holy Cross utilizes Rite II primarily, with Rite I sometimes celebrated in penitential seasons and when requested for funerals, and other special occasions. Worship at Holy Cross is balanced to meet the needs of all parishioners. We also experience journeys into The Book of Occasional Services with house blessings and anniversary of a marriage. Stations of the Cross are traveled during Holy Week. Foot washing has been practiced on Maundy Thursday.

Our Summer Service Schedule has began. There is one service at 9 A.M. Sunday School follows the service for 20-30 minutes. There is also a 10 AM celebration of the Eucharist on Wednesday morning with healing services held once per month. A licensed verger assists during worship services.

Music

Music at Holy Cross includes everything from children’s music to hand bells, adult choir, organ music and serious classical music performed by members of the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra.

Children's Chapel

During the 9:00 Sunday service, elementary children meet for Children’s Chapel. This program is designed to provide an understanding of the gospel that is age appropriate. The program concludes in time for the children to return to the worship service to participate in the Eucharist.