Update from our Bishop

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Update from our Bishop

Update for March 5, 2021 – The Catholic Bishops of Michigan have released a new statement regarding the morality of COVID-19 vaccines.

You may read the statement here: Michigan Bishops Covid Vaccines Statement: March-2021

For more information, please visit grdiocese.org. 

PREVIOUS UPDATES:

Update for Feb. 12, 2021 – Bishop Walkowiak Invites Catholics Who Are Healthy And Able To Return To Mass This Lent; Extends Dispensation Until Further Notice For Those Who Are Unable To Attend In Person Because Of Health Reasons Or Other Factors.

The Bishop has extended the dispensation for all Catholics within the territory of the Diocese of Grand Rapids from their obligation of attending Sunday Mass through February 17, 2021. – Bishop Walkowiak

Given the current situation and our restricted capacities for Mass, Bishop Walkowiak is extending the dispensation for all Catholics within the territory of the Diocese of Grand Rapids from their obligation of attending Sunday Mass through February 17.

  • Public Masses and the celebration of the sacraments will continue with the appropriate COVID-19 mitigation strategies in place. Those who are able to attend Mass should return, remembering that our physical presence at the Eucharistic table is irreplaceable. These mitigation strategies need to be followed to ensure public Masses remain available.
  • This dispensation is granted broadly to ensure that anyone who needs to stay home can do so in good conscience. If you are homebound, please contact your parish to inquire about the ability to have Communion brought to you.
  • While this dispensation is in effect, all baptized Catholics are reminded of their obligation to keep the Lord’s Day holy. Mass from the Cathedral of St. Andrew will continue to be televised Sundays at 10am on Fox17 and live-streamed on the diocesan website and on Facebook.

Please visit the Diocese COVID-19 Page for the latest Letter from the Bishop

Read the latest communication from our Bishop here:

While there is an exemption for parishioners who “remove a mask while engaging in religious worship at a house of religious worship,” diocesan guidelines require parishioners wear a mask when participating in the celebration of Mass or a sacrament.  Please come to church with your mask and wear it unless you are medically unable to do so!
Bishop Walkowiak has extended the dispensation for all Catholics within the territory of the Diocese of Grand Rapids from their obligation of attending Sunday Mass through October 18. 

Bishop-Walkowiak-Letter-Parishioners-COVID-19-June-23-2020

Bishop Walkowiak has announced that beginning Friday, May 29, 2020 parishes in the Diocese of Grand Rapids may resume public Masses and liturgies if they are prepared. Reopening will take place carefully and in phases. Please see the Bishop’s letter below, along with the directives, from which Sacred Heart has based their own reopening SH Parishioner Guidelines for Returning Masses:

Bishop-Walkowiak-Letter-Parishioners-COVID-19-May-19-2020

Covid-19-Guidelines-for-Returning-to-Public-Mass-flyer-5-19-20

The Diocese of Grand Rapids has extended its suspension of ALL public Masses and other liturgical and devotional services through May 28, 2020. The dispensation from the obligation to attend Sunday Mass remains through June 30.

Bishop-Walkowiak-Letter-Parishioners-COVID-19-May-8-2020

Bishop-Walkowiak-Letter-Parishioners-COVID-19-May-8-2020-Spanish

Previous letters from the Bishop:

The Diocese of Grand Rapids has extended its cancellation of all public Masses and all other liturgical and devotional services, effective immediately, through May 17, 2020.

Bishop-Walkowiak-Letter-Parishioners-COVID-19-April-24-2020

In Spanish:

La Diócesis de Grand Rapids ha extendido su cancelación de todas las Misas públicas y de todos los demás servicios litúrgicos y devocionales, con efecto inmediato, hasta el 17 de mayo de 2020.

Bishop-Walkowiak-Letter-Parishioners-COVID-19-April-24-2020-Spanish

Bishop-Walkowiak-Holy-Week-Easter-Letter-2020

Bishop-Walkowiak-Holy-Week-Easter-Letter-2020-Spanish

 

 

 

 

Sacred Heart of Jesus was celebrating success.

2 days ago

Sacred Heart of Jesus
Dear Sacred Heart Families, On the 18th of this month we will have our annual State of the Academy presentation. In year's past this was a time to connect families and administration to discuss important institutional updates or changes. Since COVID has caused a constant stream of important institutional changes we have had regular Headmaster Conversations to serve as this communications bridge. These regular check-ins will continue and they have actually enabled us to have a deeper conversation about the school's status and future for this year's State of the Academy. I will be joined this year by several other presenters. We will use this time to reaffirm our understanding of the school's vision and to recharge our zeal for the school's mission. Look for more details on the event next week, but for now please mark your calendars for the evening of the 18th. In Jesus through Mary and Joseph, Sean Maltbie Headmaster ... See MoreSee Less
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Weekly Novena to Celebrate Saint Joseph

Did you know that each First Wednesday is dedicated to the Most Chaste Heart of St Joseph, just like First Fridays are dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and First Saturday’s dedicated to the Immaculate Heart of Mary?

Join us at Sacred Heart of Jesus parish for a weekly parish-wide novena celebrating the Year of Saint Joseph every Wednesday beginning on April 7th until December 1st from 6:30pm – 8:00pm

  • Praying the Joyful Mysteries of the Rosary And Litany To St. Joseph
  • Listening to spiritual talks on the Life and Calling of St. Joseph
  • Adoring Christ in the Eucharist

Questions? Contact the parish office at 616-459-8362.

Sacred Heart Parish
151 Garfield Ave SW
Grand Rapids, Michigan

 

Sacred Heart of Jesus was celebrating success.

2 days ago

Sacred Heart of Jesus
Dear Sacred Heart Families, On the 18th of this month we will have our annual State of the Academy presentation. In year's past this was a time to connect families and administration to discuss important institutional updates or changes. Since COVID has caused a constant stream of important institutional changes we have had regular Headmaster Conversations to serve as this communications bridge. These regular check-ins will continue and they have actually enabled us to have a deeper conversation about the school's status and future for this year's State of the Academy. I will be joined this year by several other presenters. We will use this time to reaffirm our understanding of the school's vision and to recharge our zeal for the school's mission. Look for more details on the event next week, but for now please mark your calendars for the evening of the 18th. In Jesus through Mary and Joseph, Sean Maltbie Headmaster ... See MoreSee Less
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Spring 2021 40 Days for Life Vigil

Just think about how important ONE life is. The Spring 2021 40 Days for Life Vigil begins on Ash Wednesday, February 17. This is Sacred Heart’s first of two scheduled days. Our second day is Friday, March 26. Both days go from 7am to 7pm. Be the ONE on the sidewalk who makes a difference in the life of another ONE.

Please sign up online (see below). IF THIS IS NOT POSSIBLE, call Jane Wilmer at 616- 914-0305 and let her know when you can be there. And then, don’t forget to fulfill your promise! SomeONE depends on you. Your presence on the sidewalk is crucial; do not discount its value. Abby Johnson, a former abortion clinic manager, has stated that about 75% of the women coming for an abortion change their minds when they see people outside praying.

HOW TO REGISTER ONLINE TO PRAY AT THE PEACEFUL VIGIL

1. Visit www.40daysforlife.com/grandrapids Log in to your account or create a login
3. Click the green “Add Vigil Hours” box
4. Click on the day you want to pray
5. Click on the hour you want to pray
6. Enter your email address

All done! An email reminder will be sent to you . To receive updates from the local Grand Rapids campaign, email a request to 40daysgrandrapids@gmail.com

Sacred Heart of Jesus was celebrating success.

2 days ago

Sacred Heart of Jesus
Dear Sacred Heart Families, On the 18th of this month we will have our annual State of the Academy presentation. In year's past this was a time to connect families and administration to discuss important institutional updates or changes. Since COVID has caused a constant stream of important institutional changes we have had regular Headmaster Conversations to serve as this communications bridge. These regular check-ins will continue and they have actually enabled us to have a deeper conversation about the school's status and future for this year's State of the Academy. I will be joined this year by several other presenters. We will use this time to reaffirm our understanding of the school's vision and to recharge our zeal for the school's mission. Look for more details on the event next week, but for now please mark your calendars for the evening of the 18th. In Jesus through Mary and Joseph, Sean Maltbie Headmaster ... See MoreSee Less
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We are in the season of Lent

Stations of the Cross—will be held every Friday during Lent at 7:00pm with confession heard concurrently. Because of this there will be no confessions during the 3:00pm Friday Holy Hour during Lent.

Confessions:

Saturdays 3:00-4:30pm
Friday at 7pm during Stations of the Cross
When a priest is available during Sunday Masses
Thursday, March 18th, 5:00-8:00pm

Lenten Offering boxes are available in the back of church.

Please review the many ways you can prepare for Easter this Lenten season:

Lent is Coming

As we prepare to enter the season of Lent, please mark your calendars. Mass times have been posted in the calendar on this website.

Sacred Heart of Jesus was celebrating success.

2 days ago

Sacred Heart of Jesus
Dear Sacred Heart Families, On the 18th of this month we will have our annual State of the Academy presentation. In year's past this was a time to connect families and administration to discuss important institutional updates or changes. Since COVID has caused a constant stream of important institutional changes we have had regular Headmaster Conversations to serve as this communications bridge. These regular check-ins will continue and they have actually enabled us to have a deeper conversation about the school's status and future for this year's State of the Academy. I will be joined this year by several other presenters. We will use this time to reaffirm our understanding of the school's vision and to recharge our zeal for the school's mission. Look for more details on the event next week, but for now please mark your calendars for the evening of the 18th. In Jesus through Mary and Joseph, Sean Maltbie Headmaster ... See MoreSee Less
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Apostles of Mercy

This group is dedicated to praying the Divine Mercy Chaplet or Rosary specifically for those who are near death or who may have just passed away (Catholic or non-Catholic, parishioner or non-parishioner). When the leaders of the Apostles of Mercy receives information of a dying or deceased person, all of the Apostles of Mercy will be sent a text stating that “prayers are needed” and “When you are able, please pray the Chaplet of Divine Mercy or Rosary.” Anyone can notify this Apostolate by contacting its directors about a person who is near death. No sensitive information will be relayed about the person/soul, just that prayer is being requested. No confirming text reply from you will be required. Be informed that this request could come at any time of the day or night and during any day of the week.

Any person, young or old, can become a part of the Apostlate-families too! This is a wonderful opportunity to enter into the work of saving souls for our Lord.

If you wish to join this Apostolate and become an Apostle of Mercy please contact the Apostolate leaders Jim and Debbie Dirkes at 616 450-8653. Or email them at jvdirkes2@gmail.com

Sacred Heart of Jesus was celebrating success.

2 days ago

Sacred Heart of Jesus
Dear Sacred Heart Families, On the 18th of this month we will have our annual State of the Academy presentation. In year's past this was a time to connect families and administration to discuss important institutional updates or changes. Since COVID has caused a constant stream of important institutional changes we have had regular Headmaster Conversations to serve as this communications bridge. These regular check-ins will continue and they have actually enabled us to have a deeper conversation about the school's status and future for this year's State of the Academy. I will be joined this year by several other presenters. We will use this time to reaffirm our understanding of the school's vision and to recharge our zeal for the school's mission. Look for more details on the event next week, but for now please mark your calendars for the evening of the 18th. In Jesus through Mary and Joseph, Sean Maltbie Headmaster ... See MoreSee Less
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Holy Water font is being repaired.

Our holy water font is currently out for repair. If you are in need of holy water, please see a priest after Mass or call the parish office at 616-459-8362. We apologize for the inconvenience.

Sacred Heart of Jesus was celebrating success.

2 days ago

Sacred Heart of Jesus
Dear Sacred Heart Families, On the 18th of this month we will have our annual State of the Academy presentation. In year's past this was a time to connect families and administration to discuss important institutional updates or changes. Since COVID has caused a constant stream of important institutional changes we have had regular Headmaster Conversations to serve as this communications bridge. These regular check-ins will continue and they have actually enabled us to have a deeper conversation about the school's status and future for this year's State of the Academy. I will be joined this year by several other presenters. We will use this time to reaffirm our understanding of the school's vision and to recharge our zeal for the school's mission. Look for more details on the event next week, but for now please mark your calendars for the evening of the 18th. In Jesus through Mary and Joseph, Sean Maltbie Headmaster ... See MoreSee Less
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Fruits abound at Sacred Heart!

UPDATE:

In 2020, we celebrated

  • Baptisms -41
  • First Holy Communions-35
  • Confirmations—46
  • Weddings—14
  • Funerals—6

In our current “cancel culture” and in a time where it’s hard to find things to do, be a part of, or be positive about, we’d like to highlight the many things we ARE able to do here at Sacred Heart and the fruits of all the prayers and sacrifices that are happening in our homes:

  • 18 Adults entering the Church through RCIA
  • 30 young people being Confirmed
  • 26 young people making their First Holy Communion
  • 40 people participating in the Catholic Biblical School of Michigan
  • Apostles of Mercy—praying for souls who have died or are dying
  • Cajetani—job mentoring ministry
  • Friday Holy Hour of Reparation—every Friday at 3pm
  • First Friday Devotion to the Sacred Heart—24 Hour Adoration
  • Family First Saturdays—Mass and Rosary in reparation for sins committed against the Immaculate Heart of Mary
  • First Holy Communion and Confirmation classes participating in vespers and Adoration on Wednesdays 4pm-5pm
  • Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament—Monday-Friday 6am-7am with Lauds at 7am, chanted in Latin on Tues., 6:45am
  • Men’s Pillar Holy Hour—2nd and 4th Saturday of each month 6am-7am
  • Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament on Tuesdays 9:30am-3pm when school is in session

 

 

Sacred Heart of Jesus was celebrating success.

2 days ago

Sacred Heart of Jesus
Dear Sacred Heart Families, On the 18th of this month we will have our annual State of the Academy presentation. In year's past this was a time to connect families and administration to discuss important institutional updates or changes. Since COVID has caused a constant stream of important institutional changes we have had regular Headmaster Conversations to serve as this communications bridge. These regular check-ins will continue and they have actually enabled us to have a deeper conversation about the school's status and future for this year's State of the Academy. I will be joined this year by several other presenters. We will use this time to reaffirm our understanding of the school's vision and to recharge our zeal for the school's mission. Look for more details on the event next week, but for now please mark your calendars for the evening of the 18th. In Jesus through Mary and Joseph, Sean Maltbie Headmaster ... See MoreSee Less
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Listen to available homilies!

When possible, homilies are recorded and made available by volunteers of the parish. Please enjoy them here and on myParishapp.

Sacred Heart of Jesus was celebrating success.

2 days ago

Sacred Heart of Jesus
Dear Sacred Heart Families, On the 18th of this month we will have our annual State of the Academy presentation. In year's past this was a time to connect families and administration to discuss important institutional updates or changes. Since COVID has caused a constant stream of important institutional changes we have had regular Headmaster Conversations to serve as this communications bridge. These regular check-ins will continue and they have actually enabled us to have a deeper conversation about the school's status and future for this year's State of the Academy. I will be joined this year by several other presenters. We will use this time to reaffirm our understanding of the school's vision and to recharge our zeal for the school's mission. Look for more details on the event next week, but for now please mark your calendars for the evening of the 18th. In Jesus through Mary and Joseph, Sean Maltbie Headmaster ... See MoreSee Less
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A Year of St. Joseph

On Dec. 8, Pope Francis issued an apostolic letter, Patris corde (“With a Father’s Heart”) for the 150th anniversary of the declaration of St. Joseph as patron of the universal
Church. To mark the occasion, the pope proclaimed a “Year of St. Joseph” from Dec. 8, 2020 through Dec. 8, 2021, explaining that the aim of this special year is “to increase our love for this great saint, to encourage us to implore his intercession and to imitate his virtues and his zeal.” In addition, a plenary indulgence is available to Catholics throughout the year under specific conditions. Visit the Diocese of Grand Rapids to learn more.

Sacred Heart of Jesus was celebrating success.

2 days ago

Sacred Heart of Jesus
Dear Sacred Heart Families, On the 18th of this month we will have our annual State of the Academy presentation. In year's past this was a time to connect families and administration to discuss important institutional updates or changes. Since COVID has caused a constant stream of important institutional changes we have had regular Headmaster Conversations to serve as this communications bridge. These regular check-ins will continue and they have actually enabled us to have a deeper conversation about the school's status and future for this year's State of the Academy. I will be joined this year by several other presenters. We will use this time to reaffirm our understanding of the school's vision and to recharge our zeal for the school's mission. Look for more details on the event next week, but for now please mark your calendars for the evening of the 18th. In Jesus through Mary and Joseph, Sean Maltbie Headmaster ... See MoreSee Less
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JOB OPPORTUNITY!

School Bus Drivers needed for Catholic Central and West Catholic high schools. 20+ hours/wk., pays $17.00/hr., benefits available including tuition discount at Catholic Central/ West Catholic. Please see the bulletin for more information.

Sacred Heart of Jesus was celebrating success.

2 days ago

Sacred Heart of Jesus
Dear Sacred Heart Families, On the 18th of this month we will have our annual State of the Academy presentation. In year's past this was a time to connect families and administration to discuss important institutional updates or changes. Since COVID has caused a constant stream of important institutional changes we have had regular Headmaster Conversations to serve as this communications bridge. These regular check-ins will continue and they have actually enabled us to have a deeper conversation about the school's status and future for this year's State of the Academy. I will be joined this year by several other presenters. We will use this time to reaffirm our understanding of the school's vision and to recharge our zeal for the school's mission. Look for more details on the event next week, but for now please mark your calendars for the evening of the 18th. In Jesus through Mary and Joseph, Sean Maltbie Headmaster ... See MoreSee Less
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