Crosses now tower over Shenandoah Valley

Crosses now tower over Shenandoah Valley
Centerpiece of 'Freedom Memorial Park' under construction in Virginia

There's a stunning new visual landmark in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley off Interstate 81.

Three crosses, one said to be among the largest such structures on the East Coast at 150-feet tall, dominate the landscape for motorists in the area.

Those entering the highway from Route 66 get the feeling they are driving directly at the crosses for several miles as they travel south.

The crosses, erected last month, are the centerpiece of what is planned as "Freedom Memorial Park," the vision of Pastor Jay Ahlemann of the Church of the Valley. He hopes the park will become a national point of interest situated, as it is, within a short drive from the nation's capital.

In the next phase of development, Freedom Memorial Park will include two U.S. flags on either side of the crosses. Upon completion, the park will include gardens, reflective pools, fountains and landscaped walkways with engraved brick pavers honoring friends and loved ones.

"Each of these elements will combine to create a setting that will foster renewed hope, personal healing and reconciliation for the human spirit for generations to come," explains the promotional material.

Ahlemann says, "The landscape and plantings that are planned for the park are designed to form intimate outdoor spaces, in contrast to the massive crosses and flag structures. Some of the spaces of the park will be designed to be more secluded allowing for private reflection and tranquility becoming an essential part of the memorial experience for anyone who visits."