A religious force since 1865, when the Rev. J. M. Curtis and 24 Harrisburg communicants met in a mission called Nativity, changed to Holy Cross about 1875. Numbering from 12 to 50 as the local economy shifted, members-- especially the women-- spent years raising building funds. At last, in 1895, a red brick church with a steeple was erected, facing Erath Street. Although repaired after 1900 hurricane damage, that structure eventually fell into ruin. The present church and parish house were dedicated on April 4, 1920, by Bishop Clinton S. Quin.