Our story

About Holy Family Cathedral

Since 1987, the Holy Family Cathedral has been the spiritual heart of our community, a beacon of faith, hope, and love in Antigua and Barbuda.

OUR MISSION

To Know, Love, and Serve Christ

Holy Family Cathedral is a Roman Catholic community dedicated to worship, education, and service. We strive to be faithful disciples of Jesus Christ, welcoming all who seek to grow in faith.

As the on of the two seats of the Bishop of the Diocese of St. John’s-Basseterre, we hold a special responsibility to preserve and transmit the rich traditions of our Catholic faith while embracing the joys and challenges of contemporary life.

Our Mission

A Rich History of Faith

Mid 1800s

Establishment of a Catholic community

Small numbers of Irish Catholics are present on Antigua and worship privately or when a visiting priest is available; a significant influx of Portuguese (mostly from Madeira) begins in the 1850s, prompting calls for a resident priest. Countess Masterson repeatedly petitioned the bishops of Roseau for pastoral help for the new arrivals.

1859

The Beginning of a formal Catholic ministry on Antigua

The bishop of Roseau secures a priest, Fr. Ryan to serve the community in Antigua

1860–1862

First Roman Catholic chapel established

The first Roman Catholic chapel is established in a two‑storey house on lower Redcliffe Street (chapel on the first floor, priest’s lodging above). In 1862 Fr. Van Os relocated the chapel to lower North Street near “the Point.” During this period the first Catholic confirmation visit by a bishop took place (72 candidates) and land-purchase discussions for a church began.

1869

First Catholic Church Built

The first purpose‑built Roman Catholic church in St. John’s is erected at the corner of Church Street and East Street.

January 16, 1971

Establishment of the Diocese of St. John's

The Vatican erects the new Diocese of Saint John’s (separating Antigua and related islands from the Diocese of Roseau); Joseph Oliver Bowers, S.V.D., is appointed the first bishop. (The diocese later becomes Saint John’s–Basseterre.)

January 20, 1987

Holy Family Cathedral Constructed Blessed and Opened

The Holy Family Cathedral (Michael’s Mount / St. John’s) is blessed and opened for worship — the formal establishment of the cathedral church that serves as the Diocese’s principal seat on Antigua.

Spiritual Leadership

Meet Our Clergy

Our dedicated clergy work tirelessly to shepherd our parish community and bring the sacraments to all who seek them.

MEET THE TEAM

Our Parish Staff

Patsy Quinland-Richards

Parish Secretary

Cecilia Gomes

Administrative Assistant

Morvette Thomas

Catechetical Co-ordinator

Tahj McDonald

Office Assistant & Catholic Radio Producer

Join Our Parish Family

Whether you’re new to the area or seeking a spiritual home, we welcome you to become part of our vibrant community.