Metro Voice News Celebrating Faith, Family & Community
Max Greiner Jr., founder of the Coming King Foundation, continues to inspire people through his artwork. “God made me an artist,” he said. “Artists don’t really make themselves.”
The foundation’s flagship project, the Sculpture Prayer Garden in Kerrville, Texas, is a serene outdoor sanctuary featuring biblical sculptures integrated into natural landscapes. Greiner established the garden as an evangelistic experience, taking visitors on a gospel journey of faith and discovery.
His Divine Servant sculpture, a life-sized bronze depiction of Jesus washing the disciple Peter’s feet, was housed at the former NRB headquarters in Manassas, Va., for many years as a gift from Pat Robertson and CBN. His sculptures, paintings and architectural installations have been featured in churches, seminaries and galleries worldwide. His work has been recognized by notable individuals, including Billy Graham, Franklin Graham, Pope John Paul II and former President George W. Bush.
His path to the Sculpture Garden begins at a young age
Greiner’s artistic journey began in his youth. He pursued a degree in architecture, but his true passion was always art. Starting in 1978, Greiner made his living as an artist, and he and his wife went into business producing landscape and wildlife paintings, jewelry and sculptures. In 1989, God lit a new fire in his heart to use his talent for evangelism, and his artistic focus shifted from secular subjects to Christian themes.
An aerial view of the prayer path. Image: courtesy.
The Coming King Sculpture Prayer Garden is shaped like a 300-foot cross and features a collection of inspiring sculptures, including the iconic 77-foot-tall “Empty Cross” centerpiece. Visible from the interstate, the cross draws visitors to the garden, where they can enjoy a free tour.
The garden’s pathways, inscribed with biblical verses, guide visitors on a journey toward the cross. Along the way, the gospel message is presented in English, Spanish and German, exposing visitors to the core tenets of Christianity. Annually, between 150,000 and 200,000 people visit this inspiring attraction, and numerous individuals have found Christ and experienced physical and emotional healing within the sacred grounds.
“I just do what God tells me to do every day,” Greiner said. “I give him my life, and it’s up to him to tell me what to do. I have my dreams and hopes, but I let God set my priorities every day.”
–Alan Goforth | Metro Voice
