The Banyan Tree
On April 24, 1873, almost 136 years ago, the Honorable William O. Smith planted the Banyan Tree. In 1973 there was a special 100 year celebration from the day the tree was planted. At that time, the tree measured ¼ of a mile in circumference, it stood sixty feet high and covered 2/3 of an acre of the 1.9 acres. The tree was supported by 12 major trunks, in addition to the main trunk.
The Banyan Tree is the largest tree in the United States. One thousand people can sit under this tree for shade. Today, there are 16 major trunks. This tree does especially well in dry areas. It has survived many storms and lived through many dry months.
The Banyan Tree can be seen in Lahaina, Hawaii.
You may be saying, “Pastor, what does all of this mean?” Well, I see CRCC as the Banyan Tree. Our height and breadth will serve as a shade of solace for many weary souls. Like the Banyan Tree, we have already survived so many storms and dry seasons. This church, like this tree will have roots that extend beyond its core trunk.
The twelve major trunks of the Banyan Tree are symbolic of the 12 Foundations that we have studied; Administration, Teaching/Preaching, Prayer/Intercession, Missions, Leadership, Worship/Media, Youth/Children, Stewardship, Discipleship, Helps, Recreation/Wellness and Fellowship. “And the wall of the city has twelve foundations, and in them the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.” –Revelations 21:14
I am personally asking that every leader and member of CRCC register for our Kingdom Builders Leadership Conference. The cost of the conference is $60.00 per person. Let’s partner and A.I.M. (Accurate/Intentional/Missional) to build the Kingdom!
And on Sunday, September 12th, come and celebrate 9 years of existence with Cross Roads Community Church.
For more information on both events, visit Cross Roads Community Church website at http://www.crossroadstv.tv or call 713-436-2211.
