Blessed and growing, Cross Temple outgrew its first home and moved to 619 East 40th Street, a factory building which had been revealed to the Pastor’s wife, Sister Priscilla Cross, in a dream. The building was adapted for church worship, living quarters for the pastor, his family and other church members. Purchased October 1, 1944, this building was paid for by May 1, 1947. Cross Temple in time became noted for its tent services where many souls were saved and filled with the Baptism of the Holy Ghost. The church was honored by a visit at a tent service by Bishop C.H. Mason, founder of the Church of God in Christ. In 1957 CHA purchased the land for redevelopment and the church was forced to move.

The next blessing was the third church home at 6730 S. Wentworth. This building was larger, more modern and was remodeled to accommodate the church’s needs. This church became well-known for its Friday night spirit-filled services. The Lord continued to bless the membership and the church was able to burn a $10,000 mortgage. In 1964, an urban renewal project purchased the land causing the church to once more relocate.

The fourth home, a huge Masonic Temple at 6729 S. Yale proved to be the most challenging. However, the church renovated a portion of this building and adapted it for worship. At this home, the church developed its radio ministry that allowed the messages of salvation to be carried to communities around Chicago. Cross Temple continued to be blessed. Once again urban renewal bought the land that necessitated another move.

This time the church’s blessing was found at 9100 S. Bishop. God had given Cross Temple a beautiful edifice in a stable middle class community. This architecturally pleasing building with its high wood beamed ceiling, stained glass windows, spacious grounds, a sanctuary and overflow that accommodated a combined seating of 750. Elder Cross, Sr., led the church in paying off the $235,000 mortgage in just five years! Through the years, Cross Temple became one of the strong, loyal building blocks of the First and Fifth Jurisdictions. In 1985, Elder Cross, Sr., was consecrated to the sacred office of Bishop and pastured the church until his death on June 22, 1986.

Following the death of Bishop Cross, Elder Moses Cross, Jr., was appointed pastor of the church. Under his leadership, the church’s mission has included Outreach Ministries and the distribution of food to the needy through its Food Pantry. In February 2000, Cross Temple was set ablaze, TWO different times in two different sections of this edifice. The main sanctuary was reduced to a shell and many of the stained glass windows were destroyed. Throughout this ordeal, the Pastor exemplified true faith and led the church family in maintaining faith in God to see us through. The membership continued to have Sunday morning worship services in make-shift settings in the upper and lower levels while the church was under reconstruction. Rejoicing on July 14, 2000, the church held its rededication ceremonies to celebrate the restoration of the church edifice.

During 2006, Elder Moses Cross, Jr., had some health concerns that caused him to defer the pastorship to his brother, Elder James Cross, Sr. In September 2006, Elder James Cross, Sr., was installed as pastor of New Cross Temple and Elder Moses Cross, Jr., became the Senior Pastor. During the short period of this new leadership, Elder James Cross, Sr., has expanded the Trustee Board, instituted the Advisory Council; and has been a catalyst for exterior and interior renovations. He earned his Doctorate degree in 2011 and made the church proud of Dr. James E. Cross, Sr. He continued to serve as a wonderful leader until after a brief illness, the Lord called him home. What a great loss that was for the church.

Elder Cross, Jr.. has had a remarkable journey in ministry, marked by dedication and leadership within the church. His ordination on July 29, 2008, under Bishop James Washington, set the stage for a life devoted to serving the New Cross Temple Church of God in Christ. Over the years, he took on various roles, including licensed minister, drummer, finance chairman, and youth coordinator, showcasing his versatility and commitment to the community.

Following his father, Dr. James Cross Senior's legacy, Elder Cross was appointed Youth Pastor on January 21, 2012, and continued to serve faithfully until his father's passing on April 15, 2012. His installation as Pastor on July 8, 2012, by Bishop J.E. Washington, marked a significant milestone in his ministry. Elder Cross's influence extended beyond New Cross Temple as he was appointed Chairman of the General Assembly under Bishop James Washington (Prelate of 5th Illinois West Jurisdiction) and worked closely with Superintendent Allen P. Miggins in the New Jerusalem District, where he served as Assistant Superintendent and District YPWW President. In a pivotal moment of growth and direction, he joined forces with Bishop Roland Terry Sanders of the 3rd Jurisdiction of Illinois in January 2025, continuing his role as Chairman of the General Assembly.

His partnership in ministry with his wife, Chinell Cross, a talented Missionary, has been a source of strength. Together, they nurture their family, which includes their daughter Alyssa, son Chaiim, and grandson Jaylen, as well as many godchildren, reflecting their commitment to the church and community. Elder Cross's story is one of faith, resilience, and a deep-rooted dedication to serving God and others.