St. Paul's Broken Cross Pendants - A Sacred Act of Remembrance

Author:
April 21, 2025

Beloveds, Happy Easter!

For more than a century, the original cross that once crowned the top of St. Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral bore witness to history. It stood sentinel before Oklahoma was a state, through the hardships of
two world wars, the Dust Bowl, and countless booms and busts. Then, on April 19, 1995, it was shattered in an instant that changed our city forever.

That cross—now broken, forever holy—has found its final home, mounted high above the Memorial Gate of our Cathedral. Beneath it, the 168 iron circles carved into the gate represent each of the souls lost that day. The Memorial Gate and East Garden have become sacred ground—spaces of resilience, grief, and enduring hope.

After the bombing, the first Broken Cross Pendants were lovingly crafted and released, designed by Nick Irza, a beloved parishioner whose memory lives on through his creation. You may often notice many longtime members of St. Paul’s still wear theirs today as a sign of remembrance, faith, and connection. You can see me wearing my Broken Cross in the photo below, as I often do.

But we also recognize that a whole new generation now worships here—those who were not part of the Cathedral community in 1995, yet who feel deeply connected to its spirit and story. On this 30th anniversary of the bombing, we believe this is the most meaningful moment to re-release the
Broken Cross Pendant—so that all who wish may carry this history in their hands and hearts.

In partnership with Oklahoma City’s own Mitchener-Farrand Fine Jewelry, who holds the original mold, we are offering St. Paul’s Broken Cross pendants in high-quality sterling silver, available in both small and large sizes. Though delicate in form, these pieces carry the weight of memory, hope, and enduring faith.

It is a legacy in your hands—a quiet testament to the faith that remains, even after all else is shaken. We hope you’ll join us in this sacred act of remembrance and use the link provided to reserve and pre-order your cross today.

PRE-ORDER LINK

With Gratitude,
Dean Churchwell

The Very Reverend Katie Churchwell
15th Dean, St. Paul's Episcopal Cathedral 

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