What the Holy Cross sites are
The name Holy Cross refers here to three distinct religious sites: the Monastery of the Holy Cross in Bridgeport, Holy Cross Church in Chicago’s Back of the Yards neighborhood, and Holy Cross Church in Deerfield. Together, they reflect Chicago’s immigrant heritage, architectural traditions, and spiritual life.
History
Monastery of the Holy Cross (Bridgeport)
Located at 3101-3111 South Aberdeen Street, the Monastery of the Holy Cross began as Immaculate Conception Parish, established to serve Chicago’s German-speaking immigrants in the late 19th century. Architect Hermann J. Gaul designed the church in the German Gothic Revival style. Its pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and intricate stained glass remain largely intact, offering a view of the spiritual and cultural aspirations of early Bridgeport residents (Chicago Landmark Report).
After the parish closed in 1989, the Archdiocese entrusted the building to Benedictine monks, who established the Monastery of the Holy Cross in 1991 (US Catholic, 2019). The monks preserved the sanctuary and adapted the nave for monastic choir.
The Monastery is designated a significant historical site in the Chicago Historic Resources Survey and is noted for its nearly unaltered early 20th-century design (Chicago Landmark Report).
Holy Cross Church (Back of the Yards)
Completed in 1915 and designed by Joseph Molitor, Holy Cross Church in Back of the Yards is a Baroque-style church influenced by Lithuanian and Polish traditions (Wikipedia). Its twin towers, grand dome, and imported Lithuanian ceramic tiles make it a local landmark and a symbol of immigrant resilience.
Holy Cross Church (Deerfield)
In 2025, Holy Cross Church in Deerfield was designated an official pilgrimage site for the Archdiocese’s Jubilee Year of Hope.
What to see
Monastery of the Holy Cross
The church’s German Gothic Revival features include pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and intricate stained glass. The preserved sanctuary and nave adapted for monastic choir reflect the building’s continued spiritual use.
Holy Cross Church (Back of the Yards)
The twin towers dominate the neighborhood skyline, while the dome lets natural light into the sanctuary. Inside, the expansive nave and sanctuary feature a high altar, intricate woodwork, and gilded accents.
Vibrant stained-glass windows depict scenes from Lithuanian and Catholic history. Murals and paintings by Lithuanian artists include Adolfas Valeška’s historical paintings and Thaddeus von Zukotynski’s Stations of the Cross (Wikipedia). Imported tiles and hand-carved confessionals are among the church’s other examples of craftsmanship.
The church remains a spiritual and cultural center, with regular Masses, guided tours, community events, outreach programs, and cultural festivals that honor the heritage of Back of the Yards (Best in Hood).
Holy Cross Church (Deerfield)
Pilgrims can pass through the “Holy Door,” participate in special liturgies, and receive a plenary indulgence by fulfilling designated spiritual practices (Holy Cross Parish Website).
Practical visiting information
Monastery of the Holy Cross (Bridgeport)
- Hours Open daily for Mass, prayer, and tours. Hours vary by season and liturgical calendar; check the official monastery website for current details and special events.
- Admission Free.
- Tours and retreats Guided tours are available by appointment and cover the church’s history, architecture, and Benedictine life. Overnight retreat accommodations are also offered (US Catholic, 2019).
- Transit and parking Accessible by the CTA Orange Line and multiple bus routes (Chicago Transit Authority; Lonely Planet). Limited street parking is available.
- Accessibility Main areas are wheelchair accessible; some private spaces require stairs.
- Photography Permitted in public areas. Ask before photographing services or private spaces.
Holy Cross Church (Back of the Yards)
- Hours Typically open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Confirm current hours and Mass times through the parish website or local listings.
- Admission Free; donations are welcome.
- Tours Guided tours are available by appointment.
- Accessibility Fully wheelchair accessible. Contact the parish office if special assistance is needed.
Holy Cross Church (Deerfield)
- Location 724 Elder Lane, Deerfield, IL
- Hours Monday–Saturday, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM; Sunday, 7:00 AM–7:00 PM.
- Admission Free; no tickets required.
- Parking Ample free onsite parking.
- Accessibility Fully accessible, with wheelchair ramps and accessible restrooms.
- Mass and events Regular liturgical schedule and special Jubilee activities; check the official website for updates.
Tips
- Check official websites for current hours, Mass schedules, and special events.
- Modest attire is recommended. Be respectful during services, and ask before taking photographs in the Monastery.
- Use CTA for convenient access, especially to Bridgeport and Back of the Yards (Chicago Transit Authority).
- Use reputable transportation and remain aware of your surroundings, especially after dark (Timeless Travel Steps).
Nearby places
Bridgeport’s parks, historic canal, and nearby Chinatown can be included in a visit to the Monastery. Deerfield’s Holy Cross Church serves as a gateway to other Chicago Catholic pilgrimage sites, including Holy Name Cathedral and Our Lady of Sorrows Basilica. Visiting other nearby historical churches can provide a broader view of Chicago’s Catholic heritage.
Frequently asked questions
Monastery of the Holy Cross (Bridgeport)
- What are the visiting hours? Hours vary; check the monastery’s website.
- Is there an admission fee? No, admission is free.
- Are guided tours available? Yes, by appointment.
Holy Cross Church (Back of the Yards)
- What are the visiting hours? Generally 8:00 AM–5:00 PM; check for updates.
- Is the church accessible? Yes, it has full wheelchair access.
- Are guided tours offered? Yes, by appointment.
Holy Cross Church (Deerfield)
- What are the visiting hours? Monday–Saturday, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM; Sunday, 7:00 AM–7:00 PM.
- Is there a fee or ticket required? No, entry is free.
- How can I participate in the Jubilee pilgrimage? Pass through the Holy Door, receive the sacraments, and pray for the Pope’s intentions.
