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Click Here To View "The Big Heart Video"
Founded in October 1897 by Rev.Frederic J. Haarth, the parish has had but four Pastors: Msgr. Reynold Hillenbrand (1944-1974), Father Tom Raftery (1974-1990), and Father Bob Ferrigan (1990- present). When Father Haarth, accompanied by Archbishop Feehan, arrived by train at what was then known as the Lakeside Station, they were greeted by a brass band and let to the intersection of Tower Road and Burr Avenue where, in anticipation of his appointment, four lots had been purchased for the total price of $1000. The first church was under roof shortly and the first Mass was offered in the new building on Christmas Eve.
Having outgrown that facility, the parish built the present church in 1925. It was renovated in 1957 and again in 1994, when it became fully accessible for people with disabilities. The original school opened in 1902 and the present school building was constructed in 1952 and we have just completed a significant addition of 6 classrooms and reconfigured administrative space. The school is now also fully accessible for the handicapped. A Parish Center for social activities, meetings, adult education and formation, choir rehearsal and youth ministry space is under construction. The convent built in 1957 now houses the parish offices.
Quotes from the founding and the present pastors:
"Realizing that the present age is drawn more by love and kindness, the pastor in looking for a name for the parish selected that of the Sacred Heart, and the Archbishop decided to so call the parish." -Reverend Frederic J. Haarth
"We cannot rest on our laurels. Are we, as a parish, living the principles and spirit of the gospel? Are our varied interests working for the good of the whole? Have we done enough for those living on the margins in our parish and beyond? Do the staggering needs of the oppressed move us even more deeply than before? We are fortunate to be here in this parish at this time. We are a frail people gifted with unlimited potential. Why did Father Haarth name our parish Sacred Heart? Because people of every age are drawn by love and kindness. This was true in 1897. It is true in 1997. and when our descendants read this in 2097, we pray that it will be true for them?" -Reverend Robert E. Ferrigan (on the occasion of the parish centennial)
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Sacred Heart Church is a Catholic gospel-based community, a parish family, a caring people.
We are a Eucharistic people who are brought together by welcoming liturgies with relevant homilies and beautiful music. Sacraments are vital to our spiritual life.
Education is essential for our children through our school and religious education program. Adult education is open to divergent views.
Outreach must center on social justice, compassion and need.
Sacred Heart Church is one family where each member is equal.
Our Pastor is our leader who is one with us.
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