sacredheartdenver

We're moving!

2011-03-29T21:00:00.000-06:00

This blog will be moving to a new address

http://sacredheartofdenver.com

The site is hosted on Wordpress and gives the parish the ability to say more.

We hope you will bookmark the new address and will like the change in format.

Youth Group - Grupo Juvenil

2011-03-13T21:32:00.000-06:00

Tuesday, March 15, 2011 at 7:00 pm we will have a meeting to begin a youth group. We are inviting all youth and their parents to this meeting. The youth must have made their Confirmation or be in the confirmation class.

El Martes, 15 de Marzo de 2011 a las 7:00 pm tendremos una reunión para comenzar un grupo juvenil. Estamos invitando a todos los jóvenes y sus padres a esta reunión. Los jóvenes deben de tener su Confirmación o estar en clase para recibir la Confirmación.

Lent at Sacred Heart

2011-03-05T12:41:00.000-07:00

Lent is a time of preparation for Easter, with soul-searching, repentance and reflection. There are many opportunities to nourish our faith at Sacred Heart during the Lenten season, beginning :

March 9th, Ash Wednesday, Masses at 8 am and 7 pm

Stations of the Cross, Fridays of Lent, 7 pm (bilingual)

Anointing of the Sick, Sunday, April 3 during the and 8 am and 5 pm Masses

Penance Service, Wednesday, April 6 at 7 pm

Anointing of the Sick, Sunday, April 10 during the 9:45 and 11:45 am Masses

Brother Augustine Rohde, O.F.M.

2011-02-10T15:59:00.001-07:00

Perhaps it was growing up in Pine Bluffs, Wyoming or coming from a family with five brothers and four sisters that contributed to Brother Augustine Rohde's easy-going manner. Or maybe it's the confidence that comes from answering God's call.

Brother Augustine describes how events kept falling into place as he was trying to decide what to do with his life, the notion that "God was trying to tell me something." When Augustine announced at age 26 that he would be joining the Capuchins as a brother, no one who knew him seemed very surprised. Continued prayer and reflection led to a ministry of nursing for the Province of Mid-America.

"Health care runs in my family, as I like to say. My maternal grandmother was a country doctor for half a century, and my mother was a medical records librarian. One sister is a nurse and another an inspector of medical laboratories." Still, entering nursing school at Fort Hayes State in Kansas the age of 33 made him "a little nervous. As I studied for a nursing degree, I was reminded that the spiritual side of a person is so important in their overall well being...by helping others, the poor and the sick, I am helping Jesus, and/or being Jesus to them." After 12 years of service to the people of Hays and Victoria, Kansas, Brother Augustine arrived in Denver in 2007 to care for the medical needs of friars, and to assist Catholic Charities and the needy of Sacred Heart as a nurse. His joyful demeanor, as well as his nursing skills, are a great gift to the needy people of Denver.

Tres Reyes Magos

2011-01-09T15:13:00.000-07:00

The evening of January 6 found families and their children hurrying to Sacred Heart Church for the arrival of the three kings. The celebration of the three kings, or wise men, is popular in Europe and Mexico and varies a bit from place to place. The evening begins with the reading of the beautiful scriptures and is followed by the arrival of the wise men. The kings first pay homage to the Christ Child in the manger and then are seated as the children ask questions: "Who are you seeking?" and "How did you know this is the child you are looking for?" The wise men answer solemnly and then the children are rewarded with small gifts.

December Happenings

2010-12-17T09:34:00.000-07:00

19 December during the 9:45 and 11:45 AM Masses there will be the anointing of the sick.

Las Posadas 20, 21, 22 and 23 December at 7:00 PM in the church

Christmas Masses 24 December at 10:00 PM (bilingual)

25 December at 10:00 AM (English)

1 January Mass will be at 12 noon (bilingual).

6 January at 7 PM we will have the celebration of los tres reyes

(the three kings) for the children with goodies afterwards.

Bake sale

2010-11-21T17:14:00.000-07:00

The aroma from the Sacred Heart bake sale invited parishioners and passers by in from the cold November wind on Sunday, November 21. Cookies, cakes, bread, green chili and tamales - who could resist!

top photo, Atreya and Michael survey the selection.
middle photo, Joanna and Cindy handle ticket sales. Anthony seems interested in the money.
bottom photo, Rose and Virginia greet the customers.

Dia de los Muertos

2010-11-01T16:21:00.025-06:00

More than 500 years ago, when the Spanish landed in what is now Mexico, they encountered Aztecs practicing a ritual that seemed to mock death. Unlike the Spaniards, who viewed death as the end of life, natives saw it as the continuation of life. Instead of fearing death, they embraced it, believing the dead come back to visit and share in the celebration. In their attempts to convert native people to Catholicism, the Spaniards tried to kill the ritual. But like the old Aztec spirits, the ritual refused to die. To make the practices more Christian, the Spaniards moved it to coincide with All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day (November 1 and 2), which is when it is celebrated today.

As it is known today, Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, was celebrated at 10:30 am on Saturday, October 30th, at Sacred Heart Church with Mass as well as a traditional Dia de los Muertos altar. Everything on the altar has significance.

Photos of saints that hold a particular importance to the congregation sit on the altar.
Candles are present and families light them to honor the dead.
Pan de Muertos, Bread of the Dead, will be eaten by the dead when they visit loved ones.
Flowers, particularly marigolds, symbolize the shortness of life.

The Mass was celebrated by the children and parents in religious education classes. Afterward, everyone enjoyed a delicious meal of homemade chili, burritos and dessert.

Top photo, traditional altar for Día de los Muertos

Middle photo, Ramon Quezada explains the Aztec origins and symbolism behind each item

Bottom photo, David Solano and Sonya Simental cook up green chili for the feast. All photos Mary Lou Egan

Works by David Morones

2010-10-17T08:43:00.016-06:00

As you enter Sacred Heart Church, you will notice the work of David Morones. According to a December 19, 2002 article in Westword, David walked into Sacred Heart asking then pastor, Father Marcus Medrano, if he would baptize his children. Father Medrano said. "David walked in one day, wanted to know if I could baptize his kids," Medrano remembers. "Apparently he went somewhere else and they gave him a hard time, so I said sure. In my office, he saw a drawing, and he said he could do that. It was lucky." Medrano had been looking for someone to paint the Ascension of Mary on a wall high above the altar, but couldn't afford an established religious artist. Morones, who lost a leg in an industrial accident and had an ill-fitting prosthesis, hadn't been able to find work and was willing to paint for very little money. Morones spent the next six months on a scaffold near the church ceiling, creating his portrait of Mary. Morones also painted scenes from Christ childhood that grace the entryway - the Virgin baking bread, Jesus learning carpentry skills from Joseph.

Father Medrano has retired from Sacred Heart but the paintings recall his special relationship with a gifted artist.

Devotion to the Sacred Heart

2010-09-20T13:22:00.011-06:00

There are 15 churches in Colorado named for the Sacred Heart of Jesus, reflecting a devotion that is centuries old. General prayers to the Sacred Heart were popular in Benedictine and Cistercian monasteries, but specific devotions became even more popular when St. Margaret Mary Alacoque (1647-1690), a Visitation nun, had a personal revelation involving a series of visions of Christ as she prayed before the Blessed Sacrament. She wrote, "He disclosed to me the marvels of his Love and the inexplicable secrets of his Sacred Heart." Promises were made to those who would consecrate themselves to His Sacred Heart, chiefly, "to all those who receive Holy Communion on the First Fridays in nine consecutive months, the grace of final perseverance; they shall not die in His disgrace, not without receiving their sacraments."

The devotions attached to these promises include:

Receiving Communion frequently
First Fridays: going to Confession and receiving the Eucharist on the first Friday of each month for nine consecutive months. Many parishes offer public First Friday devotions
Holy Hour: Eucharistic Adoration for one hour on Thursdays ("Could you not watch one hour with me?"). Holy Hour can be made alone or as part of a group with formal prayers.

Save the Date

2010-08-31T15:42:00.012-06:00

Downtown Denver bustles with life: advertising agencies, small businesses, urban dwellers and night life. For weeks, a different kind of excitement has been building at 28th and Larimer as parents have been bringing their children to Sacred Heart to register them for the religious education program for 2010-2011. The number of children has classrooms filled to capacity, and has the parish is asking parents to volunteer one Saturday to help. Those still wanting to enroll their children should bring an original copy of the Baptismal Certificate. Fees for parishioners are $35 for First Communion and $45 for Confirmation. Persons outside the parish pay $50 and $60, respectively, for First Communion and Confirmation.

The year will begin with Mass and a meeting with all parents and students at 9:30 am, Saturday, September 11th.

Call 303-294-9830 for more information.

Start Here

2010-08-03T15:36:00.015-06:00

Many of us begin the day by reviewing our lists of things to do - projects at work, errands, chores and plans for the days ahead, with each task arranged in order of importance and convenience. We devote a lot of mental energy to organizing our time. If all goes well, we may reward ourselves with a moment of quiet at the end of the day. What if we reverse the order of events and start the day with quiet and contemplation?

The chapel on the ground floor at Sacred Heart Church is a good place to start with Mass at 8 am each weekday, as well as Saturday. The small congregation and intimate space increase the sense of fellowship, and Father Gene Emrisek's short homily gives focus to the busyness of the day.

Treat yourself to daily Mass.

Sacred Heart Parish Picnic

2010-06-29T15:33:00.024-06:00

Any successful family picnic would include great food, entertainment, something for the kids and time for the grown-ups to relax and visit. When the family is the congregation of Sacred Heart Church in Denver, the gathering begins with the celebration of Mass by Father Gene Emrisek. Afterward, the tables and grills were set up and the food miraculously appeared. The dancers entertained while the grill masters labored over hamburgers and hot dogs; folks had an opportunity to catch up while the children let off steam. The weeks of hard work and preparation made for a memorable parish event.

Top photo, Matachines (Nuestra Senora de Guadaleupe)

Third photo, grill master Jerry Sena endures the heat to cook

Fourth photo, Father Gene Emrisek, Brother Augustine Rhode and Russ Markowski

Sacred Heart Parish Picnic

2010-06-20T21:42:00.005-06:00

The lot behind Sacred Heart Church on Lawrence Street will be the site of the parish picnic on Sunday, June 27, from 11 am to 5 pm. The celebration will begin with a bilingual Mass at 12 pm and will be followed with food, fellowship, entertainment and games for the children.

Come worship and socialize with your fellow parishioners this Sunday. Bring a plate to share, such as a salad, beans, pasta or fruit.

Contact the parish at 303-294-9830 for directions or more information.

Celebration of Corpus Christi

2010-06-07T16:01:00.022-06:00

The afternoon of June 6 saw a dedicated group of parishioners gather to celebrate the feast of Corpus Christi, commemorating the institution of the Holy Eucharist, the Body of Christ, made present in the Mass. The celebration began with a procession led by Father Gene Emrisek who carried the Holy Eucharist in a Monstrance. The group walked while reciting the Rosary in both English and Spanish, pausing at each of four altars to pray and sing in adoration of the Holy Eucharist. The procession returned to the church, concluding the celebration with Benediction and the singing of hymns. It is hoped that this beautiful ceremony will become an annual event.

Milestones at Sacred Heart

2010-05-17T20:40:00.013-06:00

On a sunny morning in September, some 200 children, parents and teachers gathered at Sacred Heart Church in Denver to register for religious education classes. Throughout the year, students and teachers have met to learn about and to grow in their faith, their love of God and relationship with each other. The result of all this work is evident as 83 children received their First Communion on Sunday, May 16th, and another 59 will receive the Sacrament on Sunday, May 23rd.

79 people will be confirmed on Saturday, May 22nd at 5 pm. Imagine the difference in the lives of 221 Catholics who spent time and effort to grow in their faith.

Prayer Garden in Place

2010-05-04T08:45:00.004-06:00

Living and working downtown can be both invigorating and overwhelming. Yet there is an oasis of peace on the 2700 block of Larimer - the Prayer Garden at Sacred Heart is open. Drop in for a moment of spiritual refreshment.

Blessing of the Prayer Garden

2010-04-29T11:55:00.002-06:00

Just in time for the month of May, the month dedicated the Blessed Virgin Mary, the prayer garden at Sacred Heart will be blessed after each Mass on Sunday, May 2nd. Masses in English are at 8 am and 11:30 am; in Spanish at 9:45 am.

Work Progresses on Prayer Garden

2010-04-10T20:07:00.026-06:00

It was a beautiful, Friday afternoon in lower downtown Denver on April

9th for the Colorado Rockies home opener. Many people walked past

Sacred Heart Church on their way to a tailgate party or to meet friends

at an outdoor patio. Perhaps some of those fans noticed the flagstone path,

the heart-shaped planter and the restored statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary

in the prayer garden gradually being built south of the church. Soon

many people who enjoy the excitement of living and working downtown

can find a moment of solitude and peace from the busyness of life.

The work continues with the hope that the garden will be finished

in time for May crowning the first weekend in May.

Prayer Garden Progress

2010-04-01T15:28:00.002-06:00

View of the Prayer Garden at Sacred Heart Church on March 29, 2010.

A Prayer Garden for Sacred Heart

2010-03-13T13:24:00.011-07:00

Years ago, Sacred Heart had a grotto dedicated to the Virgin Mary, a place of solitude, peace and prayer. The parish wants to continue that tradition with the construction of a prayer garden in the area south of the church, with the restored statue of the Blessed Virgin from the original grotto. (You can see a portion of it in the fenced-in area to the back left of the rendering). The prayer garden will be open during the day for people to stop and pray and the parish hopes to have it in place for the May crowning, the first Sunday of May.

For information about contributions or helping with labor, call 303-294-9830.

Lent at Sacred Heart

2010-02-09T15:07:00.027-07:00

Lent is a time to learn new ways to enrich ourselves with God and others with fasting, self-denial, penitence, and spiritual growth. There are many opportunities for spiritual growth at Sacred Heart, beginning with:

Ash Wednesday, February 17, 2010, 8:00 a.m. (English). and 7:00 p.m. (Bilingual) Both masses in the Church.
Anointing of the Sick, Sunday, February 21, 2:00 p.m. (Bilingual) Christ heals by his touch and by his word. The Church continues that healing through anointing with oil.
Recollection (Retreat) Day, Saturday, March 20, from 9:30 to 1:00 p.m. (English), March 27, from 9:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. (Spanish).
Penance Service, Wednesday, March 24, 6:30 pm, four (4) confessors. Bilingual.
Stations of the Cross, Fridays, February 19 and 26, March 5, 12, 19, and 26 at 7:00 pm. Bilingual.
Holy Thursday, April 1, Mass 7:00 pm, Bilingual, no 8:00 am Mass.
Good Friday, April 2, 7:00 pm, Bilingual, no 8:00 am Mass.
Easter Vigil, April 3, 8:00 pm, Bilingual, no 8:00 am Mass.
Other Confession times, Every Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Call 303-294-9830 for more information

Las Posadas

2010-01-26T08:56:00.014-07:00

The holiday known as Las Posadas re-enacts Joseph and Mary's journey to Bethlehem and their search for a place to stay before the birth of Christ. The celebration includes a procession led by children, followed by adults and musicians who travel to a different house in the neighborhood each night looking for lodging. The people are invited into the home to read scriptures and sing Christmas carols. Soon after, the celebration begins, with music, food, candy, and treats for all. This tradition was celebrated at Sacred Heart on Sunday December 20, and continued each night until Christmas Eve on Thursday. Las Posadas is one of the many rich traditions celebrated at Sacred Heart Parish.

This story and photos courtesy of Ana L. Galván de Tiscareño.

Tres Reyes Magos

2010-01-13T13:33:00.040-07:00

The celebration of the Epiphany, January 6, at Sacred Heart began with singing for the Christ Child and the entrance of the godparents, Teresa and Francisco Garay. (It is a custom in Mexico to find "padrinos," godparents or sponsors, for Baby Jesus, "Niño Dios," who are responsible for making new clothing for the infant and for dressing Him in front of all the people attending. This custom varies a bit from state to state in Mexico.) Then the gospel according to Mathew chapter 2:1-12 was read and the Wise Men made their entrance bringing gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh and prostrating themselves to honor the new-born king.
Jorge Reyes acted as a translator for questions from the children to the wise men. One little girl asked, "How did you know that this was the child you were looking for?" The man from the far east explained that they believed what had been written in the Sacred Scriptures, that a king would be born to be the Messiah. The Wise Men then followed the star that lead them to Bethelem.
After the Wise Men answered questions, they gave presents to the children, sang to Baby Jesus and then everybody enjoyed a Mexican hot chocolate and traditional "Rosca de Reyes," Three Kings Cake or Kings Day Mexican Sweet Bread.
Top photo, godparents Teresa and Francisco Garay dress Baby Jesus in the hand-knitted garment.
Middle photo, the Three Kings, Francisco Fabian in purple, Ruperto Mariscal in red, and Agustin Paez in silver, pay homage to the Christ Child.
Bottom photo, the children receive presents from the Wise Men.
This story and photos courtesy of Ana L. Galván de Tiscareño.

Celebration of Our Lady of Guadalupe

2009-12-22T20:16:00.051-07:00

It was dark and cold at 6:30 am on Saturday December 12 when members of Sacred Heart Parish gathered to honor Our Lady of Guadalupe. The day began with singing and Mariachi music, followed by a procession to Centro San Juan Diego on Lawrence Street, a hearty breakfast and return to Sacred Heart Church for Mass at 10 am. Monsignor Jorge de Los Santos celebrated Mass and parishioners presented the story of Mary's appearance to Juan Diego, a poor humble Aztec Indian.

On December 9, 1531, in Mexico, Our Lady appeared to Juan Diego, who had recently converted to the Catholic faith. She asked him to go to the bishop and tell him to build a church where she said "I will show and offer all of my love, my compassion, my help and my protection to my people." Juan Diego did as she asked, but the bishop asked for a sign that this message was really from Our Lady.

Mary granted his request. On December 12, she showed Juan where the most beautiful Castilian roses were and told him to gather them. It was a miracle that the roses were there and in bloom because the ground was an infertile place where only cactus and thistles grew and the weather was cold. After Juan Diego gathered them, she helped arrange them in his tilma, or cloak, and told him to show them to the bishop.

When Juan Diego brought the roses to the bishop, he was amazed at the flowers, but was even more amazed at what began to happen to Juan Diego's tilma. Right before their very eyes, the image of Our Lady began to form on the cloth, and the bishop fell to his knees. He had the church built.

After 470 years, the colors have not faded and the cloth has not deteriorated. The tilma has been on display in the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe for all this time.

Christmas 2009

2009-12-19T11:39:00.012-07:00

Christmas at Sacred Heart begins with Posadas, which means "inn" or "shelter" in Spanish, and recreates Mary and Joseph's search for a place to stay in Bethlehem. The celebration begins Sunday night, December 20, and continues Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday evenings.

There will be a bilingual Mass Thursday evening, Christmas Eve, at 6 pm and a Mass in English Christmas Day at 10 am.

Masses New Year's Day will be at 8 am in English and a bilingual Mass at noon.

For more information, call 303-294-9830.

Religious Education

2009-11-28T10:09:00.020-07:00

The Sacred Heart Church Journal and School Calendar of September 1899 lists the names of 78 new pupils, who would be welcomed by Sisters Catherine Sienna, Mary Seton and Avila of the Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati, Ohio. Both the church and school were growing until the 1920s, when the neighborhood lost residents to the new suburbs of City Park and Park Hill,and eventually, the school would close its doors in 1979.

Growth has returned to the neighborhood around the parish and religious education continues at Sacred Heart parish with over 200 children receiving instruction in 10 newly-painted and upgraded classrooms. Religious studies are also available to those wishing to learn about the Catholic faith, couples wanting to be married in the Church and those who wish to have their children baptized.

Call 303-294-9830 for more information.

Sacred Heart High School Class of 1899, Robert Egerer, George Brown, Katie Carroll, Cecelia Bautsch, Willie Reidy, Agnes O'Keefe, and Angela Gilmore.

Parents, teachers and students are ready for Saturday's classes. Photo Mary Lou Egan

Saturday mornings at Sacred Heart

2009-10-06T16:09:00.021-06:00

Saturday, September 19 was a busy morning at Sacred Heart parish. Deacon Ruben Estrada spoke to a church filled with the families of nine children awaiting Baptism, their parents and sponsors. In both English and Spanish, Deacon Estrada said that the parties that would be held later were a wonderful time for families to get together but were not the most important part of the celebration. He reminded everyone that Baptism is the beginning of the Christian life and a day by day responsibility of parents and families.

Outside the recently restored rectory, 200 children and their parents were receiving information on their teachers the and location of their religious education classes. 10 newly painted and upgraded rooms welcomed the students for the year.

Religious studies are also available to those wishing to learn about the Catholic faith, couples wanting to be married in the Church and those who wish to have their children baptized.

Call 303-294-9830 for more information.

Parish Celebrates 130 Years

2009-09-23T15:14:00.026-06:00

The sun shown on the gathering crowd as the bell in the steeple announced the celebration - Sacred Heart Parish was 130 years old on September 19. Visitors admired the many renovations to the historic structure including the restoration of the original red brick surface, the cleaning of the stained-glass windows and the rebuilt stairway to the front of the church. Less visible were the extensive heating and air conditioning upgrades and an additional fire escape that brought the buildings up to current fire codes. Many elderly parishioners were particularly grateful for the elevator that brings worshippers from the ground floor to the main body of the church.

The open house was followed by a celebration of the Mass by Archbishop Charles Chaput, O.F.M. Cap. Two choirs of the parish sang as several councils of Knights of Columbus and the Ancient Order of Hibernians processed ahead of numerous clergy, parishioners and visitors. In his homily, Archbishop Chaput reminded the congregation of the work of those had come before - the founders, the Jesuits and Capuchins - and gave special recognition to Father Marcus Medrano for "keeping the faith" for so many years. The archbishop focused on the gospel of Mark, which teaches us that "If any man wants to be first, he shall be last of all, and servant of all." The archbishop added that churches should be “schools where we learn how to love, making ourselves like children, simple and dependent on God.”

The celebration continued at Centro San Juan Diego, the former Sacred Heart School, at 2860 Lawrence Street.

The parish invites visitors to the church with daily Mass at 8 am in the chapel on the ground floor, and Sunday Masses at 8 am, 9:45 am (Spanish) and 11:30 am.

Long-time parishioner, Erma Zamora, describes plans for the prayer garden.

Archbishop Chaput selected Spencer to demonstrate how Christians should become like children before God.

130 year Celebration at Sacred Heart

2009-09-03T11:30:00.016-06:00

Sacred Heart Church, Denver's oldest continuing operating Catholic church at 2760 Larimer Street, will celebrate its 130 year anniversary on Saturday September 19th. The festivities include:

4:00 – 5:00 p.m: Open house - Walk through the Church and the Parish Office to see the new construction and renovation. Enjoy the details of a 130 year old structure.

5:00 – 6:30 pm: Mass will be celebrated by Archbishop Chaput, in appreciation of the many years of Catholic service to the City and County of Denver. 6:30 – 9:00 pm: Reception at San Juan Diego Center, the former Sacred Heart School at 2740 Lawrence.

Last Journey on Earth

2009-08-24T20:54:00.029-06:00

The April 14, 1899 headline in the Denver Post read "Remains of Horace A. W. Tabor Laid Away in Calvary Cemetery." Many pages were devoted to the story of Tabor's fortune, amassed from the silver mines of Leadville, and his rise to power as US senator from Colorado. The newspaper recalled his many civic contributions and donations to charity, as well as his graciousness after losing his money. The Post made no mention of Tabor's scandalous divorce and remarriage to Elizabeth"Baby" Doe. The body was drawn by hearse from the state capitol at Colfax and Grant to Sacred Heart Church at 28th and Larimer as thousands watched the procession. Denver Mayor Johnson and Colorado Governor Thomas were in attendance, as well as William Byers, founder of the Rocky Mountain News, and M. J. McNamara, president of the the Denver Dry Goods Company. The Reverend Edward Barry delivered the funeral oration. "To many it was a surprise that he became a Catholic in his old age, but to us it was not. That he entered into the full joy of religion is shown by his dying words, 'This is the happiest moment of my life.'"

Sacred Heart 1899

2009-08-09T21:36:00.023-06:00

The Denver Public Library has many treasures in its Western History Department, including several bound volumes of the church calendar and school journal from 1899. Much like the parish bulletin of today, the publication lists the "order of services" with Mases on Sunday at 6, 7, 8:30 am. A children's Mass at 9:30, High Mass and sermon at 11, Sunday school at 2 pm. Vespers, rosary, sermon and Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament were held at 7:30 pm. Numerous parish organizations were listed including the League of the Sacred Heart, individual sodalities for married and single men and ladies, several choirs and the "Bona Mors," the Happy Death Association. The parish was also home to many benevolent societies such as the Ladies Aid Society, the Knights of St. John and the St. Cecelia Auxiliary.

The news portion of the bulletin is informative and neighborly with such entries as "Mrs. Frank Walter, lately of 2926 Gilpin Street, has removed to Cripple Creek."

"Mr. James Nixon of 3036 Stout Street, had a very severe attack of appendicitis last month."

"Rev. Father Casey's memorial sermon at Mt. Olivet on Decoration Day was a masterly piece of eloquence-patriotic, philosophic and pious."

The parish was a vibrant community and the "Journal" reflects that. As the church prepares for its 130th anniversary, we hope to instill that same excitement and devotion.

Sally and David Solano

2009-07-28T16:08:00.047-06:00

If you spend any time at all at Sacred Heart Parish you are likely to meet Sally and David Solano, long-time Denver residents with roots in Sacred Heart and Sts Peter and Paul parishes. Now retired from Quest, Sally and David devote their time and energy to Sacred Heart, volunteering for the food bank at the church, working with the parish council, the stewardship committee and numerous volunteers. Their most important undertaking for the parish, however, has been the religious education program.

Religious education will resume on Saturday, September 5th and continue to the end of May. Recent renovations and improvements have resulted in 10 brand new classrooms able to accommodate as many as 200 students. Studies include preparation for First Communion or Confirmation with the cost for instructional materials-$35 for First Communion, $45 for Confirmation-being the lowest in the diocese. A week of faith-based summer camp will be offered in June. Religious education for adults, including Baptism and Confirmation, is also available.

Sally and David Solano hope their enthusiasm will encourage parishioners to take advantage of the opportunities to broaden their faith. For further information, call 303-294-9830.

Sacred Heart Parish Picnic

2009-06-28T21:31:00.015-06:00

As people gathered at Cuernavaca Park on Sunday, June 28, Father Gene Emrisek began with celebration of Mass in both English and Spanish, praising mothers for accepting children from God, and young people for their enthusiasm and courage. Father Gene encouraged parishioners to be thankful this week for the blessings in our lives.

Mass was followed by an enormous variety of food, entertainment and parishioners and families visiting with one another.

Pastor Gene Emrisek

Left to right, Rosa Mendoza, Teresa Mendoza, Gloria Aguilar, Yesica Masias, Mere Hexcugtla and (back) Jorge Reyes lent their musical talents to the celebration.

Rubel and Jose served up the hamburgers and hot dogs.

Sacred Heart Parish Picnic

2009-06-18T16:10:00.004-06:00

It's finally summer and we're going to hold a picnic on Sunday, June 28 at Cuernavaca Park at 20th and Platte Street, from 11 am to 5 pm. We will begin with the celebration of a bilingual Mass at 12 pm and follow with food, fellowship and games for the children.

Bring a plate to share, such as salads, beans, pasta, fruit or other dishes. Contact the parish at 303-294-9830 for directions or more information.

Block Party

2009-06-07T19:41:00.021-06:00

What better way to start the summer and meet the neighbors than to hold a block party? That was the idea behind the activities at Sacred Heart Church on Saturday, May 30th. Visitors could meet members of the parish, pastor Father Gene Emrisek, and the new director of religious education, David Solano and his wife Sally. Parish volunteers dispensed information about the church, the programs available and the ongoing restoration. There were free hot dogs from the grill, popcorn and snow cones. Entertainment was provided by two different bands and the Grupo Tlaloc Aztec dancers. It is hoped that there will be a new awareness of Sacred Heart in the neighborhood and that visitors will return again.

Grupo Tlaloc dancers provided historic Aztec dances.

Pat Archuletta grills a mean hotdog!

Block Party May 30

2009-05-22T14:47:00.007-06:00

Sacred Heart Parish at 2760 Larimer Street in Denver will be having a block party, Saturday, May 30th from 10 am until 3 pm. There will be music, hot dogs, popcorn snow cones, entertainment and a chance to meet your neighbors.

The beautiful, 130-year-old church will be open for viewing and information will be available about some of the church's better know parishioners, Blessed Julia Greeley and Molly Brown. The festivities will be held in the area just south of the church and all are welcome. Call 303-294-8032 for more information.

Father Gene Emrisek

2009-05-20T13:46:00.012-06:00

Gene Emrisek was born in the Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania area but has spent most of his years as a Capuchin and priest in Kansas and Denver. Before becoming pastor of Sacred Heart, he served in other Colorado ministries: pastor of St. Elizabeth's and of Annunciation in Denver and as part of the Capuchin mall ministry in Colorado Springs. Father has been pastor of Sacred Heart since July 2006 and is looking forward to celebrating the 130-year anniversary of the parish on September 19.

In his few spare moments, Father enjoys reading, playing racquetball, watching sporting events and an occasional good brew.

May Crowning

2009-05-04T22:03:00.048-06:00

A sun-filled day greeted the children who assembled in the entryway of Sacred Heart Church on Sunday May 3rd. Dressed in their finest and carrying fresh flowers, they were preparing for May Crowning to honor the Blessed Virgin Mary, recognizing her as the Queen of Heaven and the Mother of God. While the choir sang the traditional hymn, "Bring Flowers of the Fairest," brother and sister Juan Antonio and Flor Margarita Gonzales carried a small crown on a cushion while approaching the statue of Mary. Flor Margarita placed the crown on the statue of the Blessed Virgin and then all the children individually placed their flowers in vases at Mary's feet. This devotion was then followed by Mass. Each week, these young people are learning the fundamentals and traditions of their Catholic faith in religious education classes. Religious education is offered each Saturday from 9:30 am to 11:30 am. For information call 303-294-9830

bottom photo, left to right, Karol Martinez, Hada Marys Martinez, and Angel Oaxaca Rivas place flowers at the feet of the Virgin Mary

Holy Week and Easter Schedule

2009-03-31T20:08:00.012-06:00

Palm Sunday 8:00 and 11:45 am (English)

9:45 am and 5:00 pm (Spanish)

Holy Thursday service will be at 7:00 pm (Bilingual)

Good Friday services will be at 7:00 pm (Bilingual)

Holy Saturday 8:00 pm (Bilingual)

Easter 8:00 and 11:45 am (English)

9:45 am and 5:00 pm (Spanish)

Sacred Heart School

2009-03-23T21:08:00.040-06:00

Sacred Heart School opened in 1880 with 150 applicants, two rooms in the church basement and two lay teachers. In 1882, six teachers from the Sisters of Charity arrived to provide help and lived in a frame cottage on 28th and Larimer Street. Enrollment continued to increase and in 1889, pastor Reverend John B. Guida,

S. J., began raising money from European benefactors for a school and convent. Eventually, $52,000 was obtained and on February 3, 1890, Bishop Nicholas C. Matz, blessed the new school at 2840 Lawrence Street.

Sacred Heart School initially contained only the elementary grades, but by 1896 had added grades nine through twelve. In 1912, tuition was $1 a month for first, second and third graders; $2 a year for pupils of intermediate grades and high school. Non-members of the parish paid $1 a month in advance.

The Depression was instrumental in declining enrollment as young people left to find work and Sacred Heart High School was forced to close in 1939. The elementary school remained open until economics forced the Sisters of Cincinnati and the Jesuits to close its doors in 1976.

The school and its graduates were held in high regard by educators, employers and the community. Notable graduates of the school included Bishop Hubert Newell, Bishop of Cheyenne, Father William Ryan, S. J., one time Dean of Regis College, Joseph Walsh, District Judge, Thomas Morrissey, U. S. District Attorney, and radio entertainer Ted Mack.

In 2003, the school was dedicated as Centro San Juan Diego, the Hispanic institute for pastoral and family care, empowering Hispanics through education, to become leaders in the Catholic Church and in society.

Photo of class of 1934 courtesy of Jan Gisewski Garland.

Restoration at Sacred Heart

2009-03-14T21:50:00.020-06:00

With the removal of the old cream-colored paint from the rectory, Phase III of the restoration of Sacred Heart Parish has begun. The rectory will look as fresh as it did in 1883, the year it was built as a residence for the Jesuits and offices for the parish. The surface will then be given a coating to protect the natural red brick.

The parish finance council has arranged for the installation of

4-foot crosses around the lot to the east of the church, representing the 14 stations of the cross. 15 trees will be planted along both 28th and Lawrence Streets.

The parish continues to revitalize the church and its surroundings, and invites its neighbors to get acquainted. Daily Mass is in the chapel (on the ground level) at 8 am.

Beloved Julia Greeley

2009-03-05T21:39:00.017-07:00

Julia Greeley, a former slave, moved to Denver in 1874 as a free servant in the household of Colorado Territorial Governor William Gilpin, his wife and their four children. Perhaps influenced by Mrs. Gilpin's Catholic faith, Julia was baptized at Sacred Heart Church in 1880 and became a daily communicant.

When Julia's position with the Gilpin family ended, she moved near Sacred Heart Church and began a life of service and charity. She received an inheritance from Mrs. Gilpin that would have allowed her to live a very comfortable life, but Julia used her money to help the needy, often delivering food and clothing at night so as not to embarrass anyone.

Julia had a special devotion to the Sacred Heart and a particular concern for Denver's firemen, walking to each of the firehouses in the city to deliver leaflets and badges. Her forthright and cheerful manner compelled the men to listen and many firemen had Sacred Heart badges sewn into their helmets.

Julia died on her way to Mass at Sacred Heart Church on June 7, 1918, the feast of the Sacred Heart. She lay in state at the church where both rich and poor came to pay their respects. She left us a great legacy of quiet charity, faith and devotion.

Ramon Quezada & Ruben Mora

2009-02-24T13:20:00.018-07:00

Ramon Quezada and Ruben Mora have been involved with Sacred Heart Parish for a long time, working to ensure that the historic structure can serve its active congregation. Ramon has installed new flooring and remodeled the kitchen and together, they helped with the restoration and installation of pews in the choir loft. The pews were acquired from Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish in Boulder to help ease the crowding at the 9:45 Mass on Sunday.

The pews first needed to be stripped and refinished. The more challenging part of the task was getting them up to the choir loft, which is only accessible by a narrow stairway. The railing was removed from the loft, the pews lifted up by hand and each was then placed on its individual platform. The result has been an increase in seating for 120 people.

Sacred Heart is home to many dedicated volunteers like Ramon Quezada and Ruben Mora. You can meet some of them after Mass at 8, 9:45 and 11:30 am on Sundays.

Religious Education at Sacred Heart

2009-02-10T18:58:00.010-07:00

On a clear, sunny Saturday morning in February, 120 children and their families are gathered at Sacred Heart Church for religious education. The lessons begin with a bi-lingual Mass with the children singing, doing the readings and bringing up the gifts. Father Gene Emrisek proclaims the gospel and the sermon in both Spanish and English, stressing that each person should try to concentrate on a single idea from each gospel. After the Mass is concluded, the children assemble for their individual classes.

Religious education is offered each Saturday from 9:30 to 11:30.

For information, call Rosalie Martinez

at 303-294-9830.

Celebrating 130 Years

2009-01-19T21:41:00.001-07:00

Sacred Heart Catholic Church at 2760 Larimer Street will celebrate 130 years of continuous operation in the same building with a Mass at 5 pm on Saturday, September 19, 2009.

When the parish was authorized by Bishop Machebeuf in 1879, the neighborhood was one of the fastest growing parts of the young city and Larimer Street was Denver’s main thoroughfare.

As Denver continued to grow, people moved away from older areas of town. Factories, warehouses and industry began encroaching on the residential neighborhood and, by the time of the Great Depression in 1929, Sacred Heart was serving low-income families and Larimer Street had become Denver’s skid row.

Over the years, the parish has struggled to survive financially while ministering to a large number of Hispanic Catholics and to the inner city community.

More recently, the parish has witnessed a revitalization of the neighborhood with new settlers wanting to be close to work and to experience the excitement of urban living. Sacred Heart welcomes all to the parish and to the 130th celebration.