St. Cross by-the-Sea Episcopal Church affirms for its parish a life of confidence and fullness. The parish is responsible for preparation of the Sacraments, music, lay and social ministries. St. Cross follows within the Anglican tradition and, according to its Web site, "glorifies God by proclaiming Jesus as Lord through word and example and working together in love and unity."
Service times: Sundays 8 a.m. Holy Eucharist (spoken); 9 a.m. Education Hour ; 10 a.m. Holy Eucharist (with music)
Wednesday evenings: 7 p.m. Holy Eucharist (spoken)
The church offers a variety of education programs for youth and adults.
For ages 3 to fifth grade is Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, a religious formation program geared for children. Next is Kids Next Door, a scripture study program for sixth-graders that also features cooking, art and social services.
Rite-13 for seventh- and eighth-graders is a two-year self-esteem boosting program within the Christian traditions. The fondations of Rite-13 carry on to J2A, for ninth- and tenth-graders. J2A education leads to a planned pilgrimage.
For adults, St. Cross offers Sunday Jolt, a weekly study program, and Education for Ministry, a four-year program study of the Old Testament, New Testament, church history, liturgy and theology.