Holy Cross Catholic Church

Whispers of Hungarian heritage echo within the walls of Holy Cross Hungarian Roman Catholic Church. Right here in Delray, this church stands as a testament to a vibrant community. Holy Cross Catholic Church emerged from the dreams of Hungarian immigrants in the early 1900s. Initially, finding a suitable location proved challenging. Yet, by 1905, their vision materialized into a modest frame structure. The burgeoning Hungarian population soon outgrew this space. A new Holy Cross Hungarian Catholic Church, the one we stand before, was completed in 1925. Its cornerstone was laid the previous year, a moment of immense pride for the community. The construction of Interstate 75 in the mid-1960s dramatically altered the landscape, splitting Delray and leading to a decline in the Hungarian population. The parish school closed, marking a poignant chapter in the church’s history. However, Holy Cross Hungarian Catholic Church persevered, its spirit unbroken. The twin towers, designed by Hungarian-born architect Henri Kohner, still reach for the sky. Inside, stunning Renaissance-style stained glass windows, crafted by Detroit Stained Glass Works, illuminate the sanctuary. These windows depict Jesus Christ, Saint Peter, Paul the Apostle, and several revered Hungarian saints. Additional stained glass, including a piece titled “The Assumption of the Virgin,” adds to the church’s artistic richness. Large hand-painted murals by Andras Daubner, created between 1948 and 1949, further adorn the interior. In 2000, Holy Cross Hungarian Catholic Church marked its 75th anniversary, a celebration of its enduring presence in Delray. The church continues to serve as a spiritual and cultural anchor, a beacon of faith and heritage. It stands as a powerful symbol of resilience, a reminder of the vibrant Hungarian community that shaped Delray’s identity.