By Rupert Howell

Property is close to being secured and the drive is under way to raise funds to erect a large cross near the intersection of Highways I-55 & 6-278 in Batesville letting all who travel through know the Christian faith is alive and well in Batesville and Panola County.

“It’s time,” said Carol Anne Lightsey, who along with her father, has been wanting to get a large cross for their hometown after she and her late husband, Coach Robert Lightsey, noticed them while traveling.

Following the death of her husband she mentioned it to her father while on a trip and the idea was “set in stone,” (pun intended) as longtime Batesville physician Dr. Deck Stone began spreading the word soon after that Batesville was going to have a cross.

A steering committee was formed and land sought while Lightsey, Stone and committee members made and continue to have contact with Rev. Jim Potter of Helenwood, Tenn., also known as “The Cross Man.”

Potter has helped erect several crosses with the nearest being in Winona at the I-55 intersection. The proposed Batesville Cross will be similar, but committee members are considering adding a 20’ “Crown of Thorns” to the 120’ x 64’ symbol of faith.

Dr. Stone emphasizes that to be successful with the goal of raising funds, estimated at approximately $165,000, it must be a project of the entire community.

That’s why those committee members are looking for volunteers and others to work through their churches, businesses, civic organizations to help along with individual contributors to reach the goal. All contributions will come from the private  sector.

“Each and every donation is important no matter how large or small,” Lightsey said adding, “With our 501-3c non profit status, your gift will be tax deductible.”

Lightsey had been impatiently waiting a signal to help raise those funds and was given the go-ahead after a site near I-55 and close to Walmart was found. She said Wednesday that approximately $5,000 has been raised already.

The Panolian will make regular reports on the amount of funds raised and needed to make the project become a reality.

Those interested in assisting with the community project or needing more information are encouraged to call Carol Anne Lightsey at (662) 934-0179.

Donations may be mailed to The CROSS, 107 Quail Run Drive, Batesville, MS 38606. Donations are also being accepted at each First Security Bank Branch.

“It’s time, with God’s help, to show the world that Batesville and Panola County is proud to share the cross,” Lightsey said.