About Holy Cross · South Bend, Indiana
Holy Cross Catholic Parish in South Bend, Indiana, is a vibrant community rooted in the Congregation of Holy Cross, founded in 1929. It serves the Near Northwest and LaSalle neighborhoods with a strong emphasis on hospitality, family spirit, and active parish life. The parish and its school are among the oldest Catholic institutions in the Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend, known for their deep community commitment and racial diversity. Parishioners are described as dedicated, enthusiastic, and proud of their faith home, which strives to make God known, loved, and served.
- Established
- 1929
- Patron
- Holy Cross
- Rector
- Father Jim Fenstermaker, C.S.C.
- Diocese
- Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend
Why belong here
Holy Cross Parish offers a welcoming, diverse, and energetic community with strong liturgical and sacramental life, supported by numerous ministries that spiritually nourish parishioners and encourage community service. Programs like adult and children’s faith formation, Bible study, and outreach groups foster deep commitment and spiritual growth.
Parish History
Founded in 1929 by the Congregation of Holy Cross, Holy Cross Parish has a long and rich history, with its school being one of the oldest Catholic schools in the Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend. The parish is deeply rooted in the traditions of the Holy Cross community, known for its hospitality and family spirit. Former parishioners and alumni speak highly of their experiences, and current parishioners exhibit strong dedication and pride in the parish.
Ministries
- Altar Servers
- Art & Environment Ministry
- Communion Ministers
- Evangelization
- Finance Council
- Greeters & Ushers
- Hope Ministries
- Lectors
- Music Ministry
- Missionary Discipleship Team
- Parish Pastoral Council
- Right to Life
- Sacristans
- School Advisory Board
- School Parish Team
- St. Vincent De Paul Society
- Walking with Moms
- Young Adults
Sacraments
- Anointing of the Sick
- Baptism
- Confirmation
- Eucharist
- Marriage
- Reconciliation
- Vocations to Priesthood & Religious Life
Faith Formation
Adult Formation and Children’s Catechesis are offered, including Children’s Liturgy of the Word. The parish also hosts 'Journeying with the Word,' a Bible study on Tuesdays at 7:15-8:15 p.m. at the Smith Parish Center.