The first church was built in the same location where our present church stands. It was built under the direction of Rev. George Keller at the cost of $2,600. It was dedicated on Christmas Day, 1868. The church was destroyed by fire in 1901 and rebuilt in 1902 under the direction of Rev. John Pivo at a cost of approximately $20,000. In 1922, the church was again destroyed by fire. Rebuilt utilizing the foundation from 1902, Sacred Heart was reconstructed, appearing as it does today.

Fr. George Keller

Fr. Clement Scheve

Fr. Laurence Wieseler

Fr. Francis Pribyl

Fr. Walter Raleigh

Fr. Maurice Joy

Fr. John Solnce

Fr. Sigismund Singer

Fr. Patrick Kiernan

Msg. John Pivo

Fr. Francis Paukert

Msg. Edward Kasal

Fr. Leonard Clasen

Fr. John Cody 

Fr. Edward Mountain

Fr. Harry Jewison

Fr. Thomas Jennings

Fr. Peter Klein

Fr. John Sauer

Our Pastors

In 1968, under the direction of Rev. Leonard Clasen, the Narthex was added to the west side of the church. This new gathering space held the confessionals, baptistery, and entrance to the Blessed Sacrament Chapel. It was at this same time that seating was angled on the sides of church, as well as the additional entrances added. Air conditioning was installed in 1983. In 1985 the two-floor clubhouse was replaced by the current Parish Center and expanded Narthex.

 

In recent years, an image of Our Lady of Guadalupe was enshrined in the Narthex in recognition of our growing Hispanic population, the Reconciliation Room was renovated, and the church interior was repainted and new lighting fixtures were added. Most recently, new carpet has been installed in the Narthex and soon the Parish Center, too.

Parish History

Sacred Heart Catholic Church

810 South Cedar Avenue * Owatonna, Minnesota 55060 * Tel: 507-451-1588 * Fax: 507-446-9979

1866-1870

1870-1873

1873-1875

1875-1880

1880-1885

1885

1885-1889

1889-1891

1890-1891

1891-1936

1937

1938-1965

1965-1969

1969-1977

1977-1985

1985-1994

1994-1998

1998–2008

present