Parish History

Our current church was built in 1968 to house our ever-growing catholic family. The architect, George Diehl, designed a ten-sided structure that was tastefully laid out in a modern style with a center altar. The stained glass windows were designed by Margaret Bouchez Cavnaugh. The original unique design was created to symbolize the waters around Grosse Ile. The church was dedicated by John Cardinal Dearden on June 14, 1969. The gathering space was added on to the church in 1990 and serves as a place for fellowship and preparations before special celebrations.

There are many reference materials available regarding the history of Sacred Heart from the 1800s covering the “Mission Pastors”, our resident pastors, pastoral staff and the supportive community of the parish.

Today Sacred Heart serves 890 families from the island and local communities. There are over 300 parishioners who actively participate in the multiple service and support opportunities offered at the parish.

Sacred Heart Church stands as a beacon of light for our faith, love, dedication, commitment, and hope for generations to come.

The Reverend:

• Francis Van Antwerp                1920 - 1930
• John J. Hunt                              1930 - 1933
• Edward J. Hickey                      1933 - 1937
• Albert George                           1937 - 1937
• George Pare                              1938 - 1949
• Archibald M. Stitt                      1949 - 1955
• Alfred H. Sadler                         1955 - 1959
• Edward J. Hurley                       1959 - 1971
• Edmond A. Fournier                  1971 - 1980
• John Van Antwerp                     1980 - 1987
• John Schweder                          1987 - 1988
• Thomas P. Flynn                        1988 - 2000
• James Scheick                           2000 - 2008
• Michael Molnar                           2008 - 2020    
• Marc Gawronski                         2020 -