Finding a local spiritual home is an important step for many residents and visitors in the Lake Stevens area. Holy Cross Catholic Church is the primary parish serving this growing community in Snohomish County. Whether you are looking for weekend Mass times, seeking to enroll your children in religious education, or inquiring about sacraments, this guide provides the essential details to help you connect with the parish.
Overview of Holy Cross Catholic Church
Holy Cross Catholic Church is a vibrant community located in the heart of Lake Stevens, Washington. The parish is part of the Archdiocese of Seattle and serves a diverse congregation of families, individuals, and seniors. The church is known for its welcoming atmosphere and its commitment to serving both the spiritual and practical needs of the local community.
The parish grounds provide a peaceful environment for prayer and reflection. As Lake Stevens continues to grow, the church has expanded its services to accommodate a larger number of parishioners. This includes offering bilingual services and a variety of ministries designed to engage people at different stages of their faith journey.
Mass Schedule and Liturgical Services
Attending Mass is the central part of Catholic life. Holy Cross offers several opportunities throughout the week for parishioners to participate in the Eucharist. Please note that schedules can occasionally change during holidays or special liturgical seasons, so it is always wise to verify the current times on the parish website.
Weekend Mass Times
- Saturday Vigil: 5:00 PM (English)
- Sunday Morning: 8:30 AM (English)
- Sunday Morning: 10:30 AM (English)
- Sunday Afternoon: 12:30 PM (Spanish/Español)
Daily Mass and Devotions
For those who wish to attend services during the week, Holy Cross typically holds Daily Mass. These smaller gatherings offer a more intimate setting for prayer. Daily Mass is generally held on Tuesday through Friday mornings, often at 9:00 AM. Following Friday morning Mass, the church frequently hosts Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, providing a quiet time for silent meditation.
Sacramental Life and Preparation
The Catholic Church offers seven sacraments that mark significant milestones in a person’s spiritual life. Holy Cross provides preparation and celebration for each of these. If you are seeking a sacrament for yourself or a family member, the parish office is the best starting point for information.
Reconciliation (Confession)
The Sacrament of Reconciliation is offered weekly to help parishioners seek forgiveness and spiritual healing. Confessions are typically heard on Saturdays from 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM, or by making a private appointment with the priest. During Advent and Lent, the parish may hold communal penance services with multiple priests available.
Baptism
Baptism is the foundational sacrament of the church. For infants and young children, parents are usually required to attend a baptismal preparation class. These classes explain the significance of the sacrament and the responsibilities of parents and godparents. It is recommended to contact the parish office at least two months before your desired baptism date.
Marriage
Couples planning to marry at Holy Cross should contact the parish at least six months in advance. The Catholic Church requires a period of marriage preparation, which includes meetings with a priest or deacon and participation in a Pre-Cana retreat or mentor program. This process helps couples build a strong foundation for their lifelong commitment.
Anointing of the Sick
This sacrament is available to anyone facing serious illness, surgery, or the effects of old age. It is not reserved solely for those at the point of death. If you or a loved one needs this sacrament, you can request it after any Mass or call the parish office for an emergency visit to a home or hospital.
Faith Formation and Religious Education
Education is a cornerstone of the Holy Cross community. The parish offers programs designed to help both children and adults grow in their understanding of the Catholic faith. These programs are essential for those preparing for First Holy Communion and Confirmation.
Children’s Ministry
The Religious Education (RE) program for children runs from September through May. Classes are available for students in preschool through middle school. These sessions focus on scripture, prayer, and Catholic traditions. Special classes are also designated for children in the second grade who are preparing for their First Reconciliation and First Eucharist.
Youth Ministry
High school students are encouraged to participate in the Youth Group. This ministry provides a safe space for teens to discuss their faith, participate in service projects, and build friendships. The youth program is also the primary vehicle for Confirmation preparation, which typically occurs during the high school years.
RCIA (Becoming Catholic)
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is a process for adults who are interested in joining the Catholic Church. This includes those who have never been baptized, as well as those baptized in other Christian denominations who wish to become Catholic. RCIA meetings involve study, prayer, and fellowship, culminating in entry into the church at the Easter Vigil.
Community Outreach and Parish Ministries
Holy Cross Catholic Church is active in the Lake Stevens community through various outreach programs and ministries. These groups allow parishioners to put their faith into action by serving others. Involvement in a ministry is also an excellent way for new members to meet others in the parish.
St. Vincent de Paul Society
The local chapter of the St. Vincent de Paul Society provides emergency assistance to neighbors in need. This includes help with food, rent, or utility bills. The parish regularly collects donations to support this vital mission, ensuring that the church remains a resource for the entire Lake Stevens area.
Knights of Columbus
The Knights of Columbus is a fraternal organization for Catholic men. They focus on charity, unity, and fraternity. In Lake Stevens, the Knights are often seen hosting pancake breakfasts, organizing blood drives, and supporting parish events. They provide a strong support network for the men of the parish and their families.
Hispanic Ministry
With a significant Spanish-speaking population in Lake Stevens, the Hispanic Ministry is a vital part of Holy Cross. Beyond the weekly Spanish Mass, this ministry organizes cultural celebrations such as the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe and provides support for Spanish-speaking families navigating the sacramental process.
Practical Information for Visitors
If you are planning to visit Holy Cross for the first time, here are a few practical tips to make your experience smooth and welcoming. The church is located at 6915 103rd Ave NE, Lake Stevens, WA 98258.
Parking and Accessibility
The church has a dedicated parking lot with ample space for weekend services. There are designated accessible parking spots near the main entrance. The building itself is wheelchair accessible, including the sanctuary and the parish hall where social events are held.
What to Wear
There is no strict dress code for attending Mass at Holy Cross. Most parishioners wear “business casual” attire, but you will see a wide range of styles. The most important thing is to dress respectfully for a place of worship.
Bringing Children
Families with children are always welcome. Many families attend the 10:30 AM Mass. If your child becomes restless, there is usually space in the narthex (the entrance area) where you can still hear the Mass while allowing your child to move around.
Conclusion
Holy Cross Catholic Church serves as a central hub for the Catholic faith in Lake Stevens. By offering regular Mass, sacramental preparation, and robust community outreach, the parish provides many ways for individuals to grow spiritually and serve their neighbors. Whether you are a lifelong Catholic or simply curious about the faith, the doors of the parish are open to you.
To learn more about local resources or other community organizations in your area, explore our other helpful articles on SearchAndHelp.com. If you have specific questions about registration or upcoming events, visiting the official Holy Cross website or calling the parish office is the best way to get the most current information.