The Chapel of the Cross is an Episcopal Church founded on the belief that Jesus Christ is Lord. The Episcopal Church is one branch of the Anglican Communion that has existed since the Church in England was established during the Protestant Reformation in the 16th century. Episcopal means that we have bishops who oversee a diocese (a geographical area). We are in the Diocese of North Carolina which comprises almost 125 congregations from Tarboro to Charlotte. Our Bishop is the Rt. Rev. Samuel Rodman and the Assistant Bishop is the Rt. Rev. Jennifer Brooke-Davidson.
Worship and prayer are at the heart of our life at the Chapel of the Cross and are essential to the essence of our life and mission both as individuals and as a parish. Our worship is based on the services found in the Book of Common Prayer. We are both bound together and sent forth by liturgy. Our parish is comprised of those who are new to the parish and long-attending members. We are old and young; rich and poor; many races and ethnicities; married, single, and partnered; of all gender identities; straight and LGBTQ+. We are native North Carolinians and we are new to the area. We welcome both UNC and Duke fans. Above all, we seek to serve Christ in all persons, respecting the dignity of every human being.
Mission Statement
The Chapel of the Cross welcomes you with an open door. We are:
- Called by tradition and mission to minister in the heart of the University and local community
- Committed to the sacramental worship of God, engaging the richness and beauty of Anglican liturgy and music
- Growing as disciples of Jesus through preaching, teaching, service, and fellowship
- Bringing Gospel witness to the world
Vision Statement
The Chapel of the Cross is an active faith community, expressing the full breadth, power and beauty of the Anglican tradition through our liturgy and worship. We are called to equip and inspire parishioners to live out their faith by:
- Growing as Christians through education, worship, music, and healing compassion
- Creating a living embodiment of Christian community with a sense of belonging, fellowship, support and engagement
- Welcoming all who come to COTC, encouraging diversity, practicing inclusiveness and hospitality
- Sharing our faith, values and voice with the community, university, diocese and beyond and translating these into action
- Sustaining our church by being strong stewards of our people and staff, facilities and financial resources as we grow and change
Read Staff and Vestry Statements on Racial Equity and Social Justice
