Our Pastor, the Rev. Eric John Shanburn grew up in Royal Oak, MI. When he was 16 years old God gave him faith at hearing the Word of God. After high school he studied Youth Ministry and Psychology at a Christian college. He eventually completed a Master of Social Work, a Master of Arts in Theological Studies and a Master of Theology. God has granted him opportunities to serve as a youth minister (twice in Warren), counselor, secondary bible teacher, church planter, worship leader, professor, community organizer, nonprofit executive and pastor. He is an author of 3 books on Amazon. He is blessed by his wife Jennie, a daughter, a son, a basset hound and two bunnies. He enjoys playing guitar, bass, drums and writing new music. He still plays sports like basketball, volleyball and others when he has a chance. He has coached his son’s soccer and flag football teams. He has been with Holy Cross as Sole Pastor since May of 2023. The first bible verse he memorized was Proverbs 3:5 and 6, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight.”
Our Deacon, Mr. Larry Hoeft grew up the Detroit area. He completed the LCMS MI District Deacon Training Program in 2019. He assists our pastor in worship services and bible studies. He is also our LWML (Lutheran Women’s Missionary League) Spiritual Counselor. He truly loves participating in worship. He has a heart to serve and loves visiting our older home-bound members. He is always prepared to lead a Bible study or deliver a sermon on the spot. Holy Cross is truly blessed to have him serve our congregation. He can also tell you a little about the trucking industry if you care to listen.
Our Music Director, Mr. Michael Katopodes joined the staff at Holy Cross in 2019. As Music Director, he is the Organist, Choir Director, and leads the Children’s Sunday School music activities. At Holy Cross, Michael has led the choir in larger choral services, such as Martin Luther’s Deutsche Messe, and various Choral Requiems for All Saints’ Days . Michael is a recent graduate of the Master of Music in Sacred Music program at the University of Michigan, where he studied organ with Dr. James Kibbie and Mr. Peter Sykes, and Carillon with Dr. Tiffany Ng and Dr. Pamela Ruiter-Feenstra.
Other staff include our Administrative Assistant, Admin Support person, and Custodian.
Other leadership at Holy Cross consists of our elected Parish Council officers, Elders, and the leaders of our various ministries.