“Under the sign of the Holy Cross” reads like a sacred motto for the Paróquia Santa Cruz e Nossa Senhora das Dores. This church stands as a testament to faith hope and charity in the northern region of São Paulo. Let’s delve into its history.
The story of Paróquia Santa Cruz begins not with a grand edifice but with a humble chapel. In 1903 a small capelinha dedicated to Santa Cruz was built. It was later reopened in 1965 through the efforts of local families. Magda Borges Francano invited Padre Narciso Piacentini to celebrate Mass there.
Padre Narciso embraced the capelinha. The growing community soon outgrew the small space. In 1967 he petitioned the state government for land to build a larger church. The request was granted in 1969.
In 1970 the Archdiocese of São Paulo entrusted the land to the Congregation of Servants of Charity. This congregation was founded by São Luís Guanella. Dom Paulo Evaristo Arns appointed Padre Armando Brédice to lead the construction.
To fund the church’s construction the community organized various events. They held festivals dinners and even a “quermesse” near the train tracks. Irene Neves Sivieri recalls Padre Armando’s dedication to structuring the community.
On April 30 1972 Dom Paulo Evaristo Arns inaugurated the new Paróquia Santa Cruz. He carried the cross from the old chapel to the new church. Two pau Brasil trees were planted to mark the occasion.
The Paróquia Santa Cruz expanded its pastoral work. Groups like the Catechesis Liturgy and the Apostolate of Prayer were formed. A parish hall a sports court and the Creche Tio Tino were also built. The Jardim da Infância Beija-Flor operated until 1986.
Between 2017 and 2018 the church underwent a significant renovation. The roof was replaced an artistic panel was installed and the Santíssimo chapel was built. Niches were added to hold images of São Luís Guanella and Nossa Senhora do Trabalho. These figures are important intercessors for the parish.
During the COVID-19 pandemic pastoral activities were disrupted. The number of Mass attendees decreased. Missionary activities also suffered. The Paróquia Santa Cruz is now actively seeking ways to revitalize these activities. They are focusing on reconnecting with families.
In 2020 the Pastoral da Solidariedade Guanelliana was created. It provided meals to those in need. Padre Flávio Demoliner was recognized for this initiative.
The community of Paróquia Santa Cruz actively participates in charitable work. They donate food clothing and shoes to those who need them most. São Luís Guanella emphasized the importance of attending to people’s spiritual needs. The Vicentinos and Guanellianos Cooperators embody this spirit.
Irene Neves Sivieri emphasizes the importance of charity. The Guanellian charism is integral to the Paróquia Santa Cruz. The church continues to grow in the shadow of the Holy Cross.