Located at 20 Company Street in Christiansted on the island of St. Croix (U.S. Virgin Islands), the Holy Cross Catholic Church stands as one of the oldest Catholic church buildings in the region and a landmark of enduring faith in the Caribbean.

Founding and Early History

• In the mid‑18th century, Catholics on St. Croix began to organize more formally. Although Catholics had been present since at least 1685 on the island, significant progress awaited formal permission.
• In 1754 the Danish colonial authorities granted permission for Catholics to practice religion and build churches.
• In 1755, under the leadership of Nicholas Tuite of Montserrat and his family (who had settled on St. Croix in 1752), the first Catholic church building for Holy Cross was constructed in Christiansted.

Architecture and Alterations

• The original building (1755) underwent major alterations in the 1850s.
• Architecturally it is described as built in the shape of a cross (a reference to the island’s name, “Holy Cross”).
• The design combines neoclassical elements (such as molded cornices, engaged entry columns) with 19th‑century neo‑Gothic features (such as pinnacles and pointed arches) — making it “one of the most elaborate ecclesiastical monuments on the island”.

Liturgical and Parish Life Through Time

• The parish came under the jurisdiction of the Diocese of San Juan (Puerto Rico) in the early days, but by the 20th century, the church was part of the Diocese of Saint Thomas in the Virgin Islands.
• The church has served many different groups through its history: merchants, planters, enslaved and free labourers, sailors — reflecting the social mosaic of St. Croix.

Significant Events & Challenges

• In 1848, under Thomas E. Butler (pastor of Christiansted parish), a renovation and addition were undertaken, including building over the cemetery on the north side of the church. Some of the original tombstones (including one for Fr. Desmond dated 1811) remain under the floor of the main body of the church.
• The building suffered damage through time (e.g., from hurricanes, general wear) and the interior has been altered post‑1970s (e.g., removal of stenciled lime plaster).

Cultural & Heritage Significance

• The church is noted as the oldest Catholic church in the Virgin Islands, having opened in 1755.
• It forms a key part of St. Croix’s built heritage and religious landscape — the island itself is known for “a melting pot of religions” and many historic churches.

Present‑day Parish

• Today the parish remains active within the Diocese of Saint Thomas, continuing regular liturgical life and community outreach.
• Its architecture and historical legacy make it a site of interest for visitors and locals alike.

Timeline Summary

Year	Event
1754	Danish authorities permit Catholic church construction on St. Croix.
1755	First building of Holy Cross Catholic Church erected in Christiansted.
1848	Major renovation/addition under Fr. Butler; expansion over cemetery.
1850s	Extensive architectural alterations incorporating Neo‑Gothic & Neoclassical styles.
20th century	Continues life as parish; part of Diocese of Saint Thomas.
Present	Active parish, heritage site and historic landmark.