The parishioners of Holy Cross-Immaculata Parish are pleased to announce that the tradition of Praying the Steps will resume this year. Since Governor DeWine has lifted many of the Covid 19 restrictions for church services, Mayor John Cranley has given the parish permission to move forward with plans to provide a safe environment for the large crowds who are likely to be present.

People who would like to participate in this unique tradition, especially those whose immune systems may be compromised, are asked to consider praying the steps and visiting the church earlier during Holy Week week when fewer people are likely to be present.

The church will be open for private prayer Monday-Thursday from 9AM-6PM. Volunteers will be on hand to assist people if they would like to light a votive candle or spend time in adoration of the relic of the cross that will be on display.

After the Mass of the Lord’s Supper on Holy Thursday, the church will remain open all night and all day Friday until 11PM. All guidelines for social distancing and occupancy in the church will be observed. Masks will be required.

The only Good Friday worship service this year will be at 7PM. THERE WILL BE NO AFTERNOON SERVICE. The Sacrament of Reconciliation will be offered when priests are available

No hospitality will be offered this year. People who wish to eat lunch or dinner are encouraged to support the businesses in Mt. Adams.

The tradition of praying the steps began in the late 1850’s when Archbishop Purcell asked people to climb the hillside, praying that enough money would be raised to build Immaculata church. No one seems to know for certain why the tradition of praying the steps on Good Friday developed, but each year thousands of people from all 50 states and even international visitors of all faiths make a pilgrimage to the holy site.