The Bishop's Cross
The 2024-2025 Bishop’s Cross recipient is Laura Buckner from the Messiah Chapter, at Church of the Messiah, in Winter Garden.
The drawing for the Bishop’s Cross began in 1937. Katherine Travers of St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in Daytona Beach donated a gold cross and designated it to be worn by a member who is faithful in carrying out the purpose of The Order and whose life upholds the Cross. Shortly after the Diocese of South Florida split, the Bishop’s Cross was lost. Bishop Hargraves decided that it should be replaced so the tradition could continue.
Under the leadership of Lorraine Renfroe, Diocesan President of the Daughters of the King at that time, a new cross was made from silver gleaned from jewelry donated by Senior Daughters. The same silver cross is used today. Years later the original gold cross was found at the Bishop Gray Inn and returned to the Diocese. The gold Bishop’s Cross is now worn by the Central Florida Diocesan President during her term of office.
Prior to each Fall Assembly, all chapters submit one member’s name for consideration of wearing the Bishop’s Cross. At the Fall Assembly one name is drawn and the Daughter who is selected by the Holy Spirit wears the cross for one year. At the next Fall Assembly, she shaes her experiences about wearing the cross and how it has influenced her life or that of her chapter.
The Bishop’s Cross is not a reward. It is to be worn with humility and thankfulness that God is doing great work in her life as well as in her chapter and parish. Wearing of the Cross gives one a greater dependence on God’s spirit. This Order was guided into existence by God’s Spirit and this method helps us keep our eyes on Him and on His work.
A reflection from Laura Buckner, this year’s recipient of the Bishop‘s Cross, Messiah Chapter, Church of the Messiah, Winter Garden.