Santa Cruz Roman Catholic Church is a historic landmark in Tucson, now in urgent need of repairs and upgrades.
The 105-year-old church, located on the edge of South Tucson, has served as a cornerstone for the community for over a century. Now, KGUN 9’s Giving Project is helping raise funds to keep this “heart of the Southside” beating.
Pat Parris/KGUN9 Known for its towering 90-foot bell tower, the church is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and holds the distinction of being the largest adobe structure ever built in Arizona.
Last week, KGUN 9’s Reyna Preciado reported on the church’s efforts to raise funds for critical renovations, including repairing the roof and updating the building’s original wiring—essential for the safety of the parish and its visitors.
“This church has been the heart of the Southside for years,” says Fr. Marcos Velasquez, who sees the church as a beacon of hope. “No matter what’s going on, the Lord is here in the middle of us all.”
Pat Parris/KGUN9