A historic landmark in the heart of Antigua’s capital is set to undergo a transformative restoration as part of an ambitious project to create the St. John Paul II Sanctuary, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s religious and cultural heritage.
The Church of St. Joseph and St. Patrick, built in 1909 and located in the center of St. John’s, has been selected as the site for this extraordinary undertaking. The historic Catholic church, which has stood in ruins since being devastated by the earthquake that struck Antigua in 1974, will be restored and reconsecrated as a sanctuary dedicated to St. John Paul II.
The refurbishment project aims to preserve the historic character of the building while ensuring its structural integrity for future generations. Construction work, expected to commence in the first quarter of 2026, will focus on strengthening foundations, reinforcing load-bearing walls, renovating the roof structure, and completing comprehensive interior finishing. The architectural approach respects the building’s heritage, with no far-reaching changes to its original design.
The initiative emerged from a meeting between Bishop Robert Llanos, Ordinary of the Diocese of St. John’s-Basseterre, and Ambassador Przemysław Häuser-Schöneich of the Order of Malta to Antigua and Barbuda. The Embassy of the Order of Malta has maintained a longstanding partnership with the Diocese on various charitable projects throughout the region.
The decision to dedicate the sanctuary to St. John Paul II reflects the profound impact of the Polish pope’s teachings on interfaith dialogue, solidarity, and peace. Antigua and Barbuda’s multicultural character and openness to religious diversity made it an ideal location for this meaningful tribute.
The refurbished church will serve functions far beyond those of a traditional place of worship. Plans include establishing the facility as a center for interfaith dialogue, an educational platform promoting values of solidarity and mercy, and a support center for those in need.
Adjacent to the church, the disused former curia building will be converted into a rectory and the John Paul II Charity and Cultural Center, expanding the sanctuary’s capacity to serve the community through workshops, conferences, lectures, concerts, and charitable initiatives.
The project incorporates environmentally conscious solutions, including photovoltaic installations, rainwater collection systems, and energy-efficient technologies, contributing to sustainable regional development.
Caritas of the Archdiocese of Poznań will coordinate international fundraising efforts, while local artists, craftsmen, and residents will be actively involved throughout the design and implementation stages, ensuring the project remains deeply rooted in the community it serves.
The strategic location of the sanctuary in the capital’s center, with easy access from the airport and major transport routes, positions it to become a significant destination on the world pilgrimage map. This transformation promises not only spiritual renewal but also potential economic benefits through religious tourism.
As construction begins, the Church of St. Joseph and St. Patrick stands poised to rise from decades of neglect, ready to serve once again as a beacon of faith, hope, and unity for Antigua and Barbuda and the wider Caribbean region.
The project represents more than the restoration of a building—it embodies the preservation of history, the celebration of faith, and the promise of a vibrant future for generations to come.