Author: Cyndi

Habemus Papam!

Posted on by Cyndi

Bishop Barbarito’s Statement On the Election of Pope Leo XIV

by Most Reverend Gerald M. Barbarito

On his passing, I reflected upon our beloved Pope Francis as a Pope of surprises in so many ways, and in continuing with that I can honestly say that Pope Leo XIV is a Pope of surprises as well.

With so many others, I was convinced that the choice of a Pope from the United States would be most unlikely, but it seems that Pope Francis, from heaven, has given us another surprise. I am delighted by the choice of this man, who possesses so many spiritual gifts, pastoral competency, and linguistic talents.

Pope Leo XIV is an Augustinian priest who spent much of his ministry as a missionary in Peru. He has worked in the Vatican for a number of years and is a true man of the Church in every way. A Pope is chosen by the Holy Spirit, and the office that he holds has nothing to do with his nationality or country of origin. He is a Pope for all Catholics all over the world.

There is no question that Pope Leo XIV will serve with the same zeal, effectiveness, and holiness that so many of our recent extraordinary Popes exhibited within our times. We join in fervent prayer for Pope Leo XIV as he undertakes his new ministry of unity for the Church.

Parish Renovations: Fact vs. Fiction

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This page will continue to expand as we receive more questions.

Fiction: “Our pews are made of solid wood, they should just be refinished and not replaced.”

Fact: Over the years, our pews have provided both functionality and aesthetic appeal, giving the impression of solid wood craftsmanship. However, the recent tornado exposed that the pews are constructed from pressboard with a veneer finish, rather than solid wood. Additionally, the pews have been relocated multiple times to accommodate various flooring projects, which, combined with general wear, tear, and water damage from the tornado, has significantly compromised their structural integrity.

While temporary repairs have been made to address immediate concerns, these measures do not provide a long-term solution to the underlying issues. Due to mounting safety concerns and the overall deterioration of the pews, it has become necessary to proceed with their full replacement at this time.

Fiction: “We are doing this renovation just to keep up with the Jones. Our Church is not a Cathedral and does not need any updating.”

Fact: Holy Cross Catholic Church has not undergone a significant renovation since its establishment in the 1980s. As a sacred space that houses the Eucharist, the Church deserves the same thoughtful care and renewal that we routinely provide to our own homes. It is fitting that we update and enhance this holy place to both accentuate its inherent beauty and ensure that it continues to reflect the full reverence that is appropriate for a house of God.

The spirit and character of Holy Cross Catholic Church will be faithfully preserved, while the planned updates will introduce a modern refinement that will serve the needs of our current community and generations to come.

Novena for Pope Francis April 26-May 4

Posted on by Cyndi

The entire Church mourns the death of the Holy Father, Pope Francis. In cathedrals, basilicas, parish churches, shrines, and chapels the Holy Eucharist will be offered for the repose of his soul. Communities and individuals will ask God to bestow his infinite mercy on the man who served the Church as Bishop of Rome.

This novena has been prepared to help pray for the Pope during the time of mourning. The daily novena – lasting for the novendiales period from April 26 to May 4, 2025 – consists of a short reading from Scripture or some other ecclesiastical text and some brief prayers, including orations drawn from the Roman Missal and the Order of Christian Funerals.

Click Here for the Pope Francis Novena Links