The Holy Cross Catholic Church

by Edlyne · Published March 5, 2020 · Updated March 5, 2020

Hello everyone! How are you doing?

Welcome for another episode of my adventures in Cyprus. Today, we will talk about the Holy Cross Catholic Church!

In Cyprus, the main religion is Orthodox. I have previously written an article about it which treats the main differences between the Catholic churches.

Holy Cross is a Roman Catholic parish serving the neighbourhoods of Northeast Minneapolis.

When the committee of Polish Catholics in Northeast Minneapolis learned that they would be able to have a Polish priest, they asked the Bishop of St. Paul, John Ireland, for permission to build a church. The Articles of Incorporation for the Church of the Holy Cross (Bazylika Świętego Krzyża) were signed by Ireland on 21 August 1886. The cornerstone for the present structure of the church was laid on 4 July 1927, and Archbishop Dowling celebrated the Dedication Mass on 16 September of the following year.

Holy Cross church possesses one of the most beautiful and classical church interiors in the Archdiocese, having undergone several renovations since its first construction. Outstanding features are the detailed stained-glass windows in the nave, with its icons of biblical figures, saints, and doctors of the Church; the rose window over the organ loft, the breathtaking sanctuary with its pillars and altars of Italian marble, and the stained-glass windows hovering over the altar, depicting the Seven Sacraments.

What I like the most about this church is their multicultural environment. Since my arrival in Cyprus in November, each Sunday I go to that church. This church also has a French community composed for most migrants of Africa. It is very different from what I used to. It gives me the opportunity to learn some words in African dialects such as mbala from Zambia.

I don’t know what your beliefs are, dear readers. Nevertheless, one of the main goals of Christianity is to live in peace and harmony. This church is very amazing! I was impressed by their technology. Indeed, you can follow the mass on two white screens thanks to a video projector. I found this initiative eco-friendly, no need to waste papers and print sheets for the attendant. Furthermore, it is very useful for some rhetorical things such as songs or prayers.

Another point is that priests are very kind and original. On Saturday evenings the mass is dedicated to families. In fact, all the service is done by children. It is very interesting and refreshing as you know children are so spontaneous and innocents. On Sunday you have a lot of masses at least 3 in English.

Find below some photos: