Comments

I was a Lector, Eucharistic Minister and active participant in activities at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus until two years ago when I joined a Catholic Church closer to my home in Marietta. It was a difficult decision for me to make since I'd begun attending Sacred Heart when I moved to Atlanta, now 41-years ago. I still have the little red ticket I gave my late mother to attend Mass when Mother Teresa visited in 1995. My Mama's funeral mass was held there.
The first changes that ushered me away were to the Mass schedule. I liked the 12-noon Sunday Mass. That allowed me to sleep in a bit then drive from Marietta to our downtown church. The new 10a Mass didn't work for me.
I'm surprised the Archdiocese would allow this re-do of the 2nd oldest church in the diocese and the only minor Basilica. Members of Margaret Mitchell's family worshipped there! What is the purpose of removing history? That's why there are 36 Peachtree streets in Atlanta and the first settler's name, Ivy, was removed to make way for #36! Destroying the altar where Mother Teresa knelt and prayed is almost sacrilegious.

The Archdiocese did nothing. Until Father John is removed as Pastor, nothing will happen and he will continue to dictate insensitively. It is time for Father John and his associate Bryan Small, in residence, to be removed. Transfer the Basilica to the Jesuits.

Little progress has been made. The Archdiocese through the holy wall surrounding itself and Father John, isolating parishioners, has approved Phase I. Father John still wants to put in a marble floor that will be a safety hazard, especially to the elderly and handicapped. It is so sad that because of the ego, ambitions and narcissism of a Pastor, a House of God is being ruined, The Pope's Church. You are approaching this the wrong way. You need to lobby to remove Father John as Pastor. Until he is gone, these kinds of problems, so indicative of his pastorate, will remain. It is so very, very sad.

It is easy to see that the composition of the building and the content of the sacristy of the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus needs some work. The Technology and effectiveness of lighting, the sound system and some painted surfaces are “wearing out.”The pews and kneelers are beginning to fail in their function and need restoration or replacement. These weaknesses should be addressed but without destroying the timeless beauty and meaning of this sacred space. Its beaurty and meaning are timeless and tireless. It is significant that in the artists portrayalof the modified interior presented to us we see NO CRUCIFIX! While some substitutions will obviously be proposed, it is significant and a warning that the presented “new church” shows no sign of a crucifix replacing the beautiful and engaging one we see now! Has the sacrifice of our Lord and Savior become out of date? This is a tell tale sign that should give us all concern! Has this church “Improvement” and “modernization” changed the presentation of this central act of love of Christ?
In summary, while we need to address some components of our aging church building, changes should be made in remediation of its failings while preserving the proven merits of its history that we should enjoy today and preserve for tomorrow!

if you oppose the proposed changes you are welcome sign the petition through the secondary link below, instructions below, and leave a comment that will be sent to the Archdiocese.

I hope and pray that cooperation, accountability, sensitivity, common sense, fiscal responsibility, mission considerations and safety can prevail in all discussions of this issue. Voting on the below petition is an opportunity open to you, should you wish to avail yourself of it.

Log onto: https://www.change.org/p/stop-the-proposed-renovation-of-atlanta-s-historic-basilica-of-the-sacred-heart-of-jesus

Be sure to login in and sign the petition, instructions below, and leave a comment that will be sent to the Archdiocese. Construction work begins in just a few weeks so the time is now, and please pass this onto to everyone you know just as soon as possible. Request for a stop order has been made and the Chancery met with parishioners. Your support is needed. If you have trouble logging onto this website just google Stop Sacred Heart Atlanta and then look for and click onto the change.org petition. 65 people have already signed up today. Thank so much and have a blessed day. Click onto: https://www.change.org/p/stop-the-proposed-renovation-of-atlanta-s-historic-basilica-of-the-sacred-heart-of-jesus

Sacred Heart Catholic Church is like a mirror reflection of our personal temples where our Lord lives within our hearts. We gather at Sacred Heart CC as living members of Christ joined together as one. The Family Body. The Family Unit, uniting as one in loving harmony and in Life service with kindness, patience, forgiveness and mercy. Offering help to those in need. Please read Encyclical that infuriated Hitler. On Palm Sunday 1937. "Mit Brennender Sorge"
all of it. especially I believe paragraph 39. I attended Saint Joseph's Catholic school 1968-1971 and attended Mass at Sacred Heart for many years.

I have written to SH dialog before. i also have written Fr.Howren.
I first walked into Sacred Heart the 2nd Sunday of Lent 1985.
When you look forward from the center of the Narthex you see the Sacrifice Altar, the old high Altar, the Tabernacle, the Crucifix, and then theRisen Christ with his arms stretched out - he is saying “come to me”. I always look from the Sacrifice Altar and at each of these when i receive Communion and when i enter Sacred Heart.
Now for a “reason” i don’t understand, the large Crucifix (which was i believe was donated by the Altar & Rosary Society) will be removed, Jesus will have his hands up palms out like he’s saying “stop!”, the rest will be removed ..
We’ll have an ugly suburban Church in Midtown Atlanta, with no past and lots of things.
As it is now we have a unique simple and elegant Church. It does not need any “stuff” to clutter it up. It feels quiet. You can feel Jesus, the Father, and the Spirit listening to you when you pray and you can feel them answering you.
We need to make repairs. We do not need the destruction planned by those in charge.
PLEASE, PLEASE, you in power, listen to the parishioners. PLEASE don’t take this Holy Place away from us . We love it and what it represents. We need it and we need our once-close and active parishioners, so many of whom are unhappy and who are crying about the changes to this Holy Place about which they were never consulted or even told until the plans were considered “final”. We pray daily that you “people of power” and “strong leaders” will become people of LOVE. People who will give the millions of dollars you now plan to spend on the destruction of OUR Parish to the care of those many poor we see daily on the street in front of Sacred Heart.

Progress may be being made! There is definite need for repairs. One need only look at plaster coming off the walls, splintering pews and a less than ideal sound system to know that. When you mediate and negotiate you start out with what you agree on, then move onto those areas you do not agree on. The pews cannot be restored because they are falling apart and the finish is ruined and if it is safer and more constructive to replace the pews they should be replaced. The re-plastering is a no brainer. Any concept of an updated sound system needs to include accommodations for the hard of hearing. There are sound systems out there which off a program that a hearing aid user can hear though their hearing aids. Few parishes offer delivering the Mass by sign language. I am glad there is talk of leaving the chapel altar rails because I know many pray in those chapels, both, but especially Our Lady's side and visitors know there is a relic on that side. Somewhere between parishioners who want no changes at all and those that want to change everything there is a middle ground, but you will not get there without open and honest communication. I am glad something is being done about the lighting. I pray that this may be resolved amicably and most of all that people both speak out and listen to one another in these important matters for such an outstanding parish. We need to remember that the parish is the people in the pews, good folks who have performed works of the Holy Spirit for centuries. Special thanks to all whom have led this effort and may it continue.

I have no issues about making repairs necessary for the safety of the congregation. After cleaning the church on Fridays for 20 years, I am aware of flaking plaster, rough and split pews, and other age-related issues that have to be remedied.

However: according to John 21: 15-17 after the risen Christ finished a meal with his disciples, He instructed Peter three times to: "Feed my lambs", "Tend my sheep", and "Feed, my sheep."

Every time we enter or leave Basilica of the Sacred Heart, we are likely to see Christ's sheep. Often, they are hungry and homeless, and are sleeping on the concrete, trying to stay warm and dry. It is a shame that we do not obey Christ by following his instructions.

"The construction or renovation of a church building is a complex task that demands prayer and reflection, technical expertise and study. A building or renovation project is not the work of the pastor alone, nor is it that of a building committee. Rather, it is an act of faith that belongs to and engages the entire community."
"Built of Living Stones: Art, Architecture, and Worship"
National Conference of Catholic Bishops

As a long-time active parishioner, I was shocked to discover the plan displayed in the back of the church last June. I had returned from vacation and wondered how I had missed the surveys, feasibility study, call for committee members, town hall, etc. Having served on parish council during the organ replacement process, I was unfamiliar of a project of this magnitude moving forward without significant parishioner feedback. After visiting the design studio and reviewing the materials, it became evident that much time, effort, and investment went into creating a plan to present to the parish. I am confused and saddened that no investment was made in engaging our parish family in the process.

There are 21 parishioners listed as members of one or more of the Leadership committees - Legacy, Finance, Cornerstone, Leadership Team, and For Such at Time as This Ambassadors. We no longer have a parish/ pastoral council made of up of parishioners who are nominated and voted upon by the parish.

The Sacred Heart family is diverse and brought together by devotion to our shared faith. Sacred Heart parishioners are loyal and committed. We drive from near and far to worship each Sunday. We put our flesh into prayers - serving in liturgy, parish life, religious education, and outreach. Sacred Heart parishioners are responsible for the oldest chapter of St. Vincent de Paul, and the creation of Midtown Assistance Center (1986) and ServeHaiti (2000). This parish family educates, heals, feeds, houses, and supports our most vulnerable community members both locally and globally.

I think most parishioners agree with the necessary expenses related to updating systems to protect our church home so she continues to welcome family members and visitors for another 125 years to come. I pray that those years include a continued legacy of serving as Christ's hands and feet to our brothers and sisters in need - not wastefully spending resources that could life changing when used to support someone in crisis.

I pray that unity comes from the division that this process has created. It's not too late. I pray that our congregation can move forward feeling valued and respected. I pray that the parish home which embraced me as a young 20 something, saw my husband and I through the Sacrament of marriage, death of beloved parents, birth and Baptisms of children, RCIA, First Communions, Confirmations, childhood cancer journey... will continue to be home.

I attended Mass at Sacred Heart Church as far back as 1950 when it was attached to Marist College. Some changes have been made since 1950, but none have, in my opinion, changed the spirit of the church. The proposed changes would make it almost an entirely different church. I am particularly concerned about a proposal to replace the carpet in the aisles with marble. On a rainy day I simply wouldn't be able to attend because of the fall hazard. (I'm almost 86.) The marble and other changes would also adversely affect the acoustics of the church which at present are excellent. In fact, some of the funds intended for unnecessary changes could be used to stage sacred music events. The church used to stage choirs and concerts and they were beautiful. What really sold me on Sacred Heart as my church were the numerous ministries that the church sponsored. Over the years, I've worked with the prison ministry, Meals on Wheels, hospital ministry, Habitat for Humanity, and other causes. I was also a Eucharistic Minister, but I'm unable to do that any longer because of the marble steps on the altars. To my knowledge the only one of those ministries currently operating is the hospital ministry. Some of the money and energy proposed to be allocated for these unnecessary changes to the church should be redirected to various ministries. Also, I question whether we can still call ourselves a Basilica if so many historical features of Sacred Heart are removed.

I was a member of Sacred Heart Parish from 1979-2016. I am currently living in St. Petersburg , FL. I was so sad to hear about the possible “renovation” of such a beautiful church. The plans for the apse make it look like a glorified bathroom. Why make Sacred Heart look like a suburban church? The church is so beautiful as it is. I can certainly understand spending money to maintain the structural integrity of the building, but just to take out the “old” and bring in the “new” is a total waste of parish funds. As a teacher at Marist while living in Atlanta, I always took pride in seeing the Society of Marist crest over the sanctuary—now you want to put it in the floor where few will see it. Unfortunately, we have lost many beautiful churches to contemporary “renovation”. Please do not make the Basilica of the Sacred Heart another such depressing church.

I left behind some wonderful parishioners at Sacred Heart who have contacted me regarding this issue. I am so sorry that you continue to have these difficulties that appear to stem from the dysfunctional pastoral style of Father John Howren who unfortunately is dictatorial, not inclusive. He reminds me of President Trump. Over the 25 years that I was a member of Sacred Heart I experienced different Pastors - the good, the not so good, and the indifferent. None were quite so bad as Father John. I understand Father John was on a search committee for a new Pastor at Sacred Heart and he ended up nominating himself. He has in my opinion a me versus we mentality, so horrible to keeping a parish, and the Church, together. You don't treat dedicated adults like 1960's parochial school children. Father John should be transferred and sent to a hall of academia where he can teach seminary, forcing his opinions on students and making a name for himself. And, if not, he belongs in a different parish than Sacred Heart. The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus has become the Basilica of Father John Howren. If history repeats itself, nothing will happen. He will not open his listening ears, the Chancery will not listen to you, then you will lose members as you already have and the parish will remain split, as it is now. This is so unfortunate. I suggest you start a website and petition to remove Father John from Sacred Heart. It is the only way you will deal with these issues. How ridiculous it is when a Pastor is working on special permission to add to a mural a saint that has not yet been canonized. When objections were put forward in the matter the side altar rails being removed a condescending response came telling us that the side rails had not been used at Mass in years. This is a man full of pride who wants to be a Monsignor and the cutting edge of liturgy in the Archdiocese. He fits Sacred Heart like a square peg in a round hole. Do this. Scrap this project and start a. petition to remove and replace Father John Howren as Pastor. The sad part is that there are upgrades to the Sanctuary that need to be undertaken and these are serious. Minimally they involve the ability to hear Mass and participate. Majorly they involve technical shortfalls and problems of an aged structure that could result in violation of health and safety due to bad wiring in the Church. What happened to plans to put in a new roof? is that even being talked about? Friends your problem is Father John. Remove Father John and install a Pastor who know how to speak to speak to people or transfer the Basilica back to the Society of Mary which will hopefully have a better handle on historic preservation. You have a seven bedroom pastoral apartment that could house some of the teachers at Cristo Ray High School to place them closer to campus. Again, Father John needs to be transferred out of Sacred Heart. The four people who voted yes to this project are in denial of the real problem here: Father John Howren. Again, I hope it all works out. Get rid of running the parish in the hands for four people and return the parish to parishioners. And, remember, in Catholicism about you can depend on is donations and if you need to halt donations and place them elsewhere temporarily, do that. Thank you. I love Sacred Heart, I wish it well, I will pray for Sacred Heart and Sacred Heart has prayed for me. You are like family. And right now you are in crisis. Nobody is listening to you. Get creative. Do what you must but don't take this lying down.

I am not a Parrishner but visit constantly since I attended St Joseph High School from 1962-1966. Every morning I would go inside to say prayers for everyone. It holds a lot of history for myself and the city. I’ve noticed several Churches especially in downtown Atlanta spending unnecessary money for improvements to a historic Church. There is much more that could be done with millions that we spend that is not needed.
Save Sacred Heart Basilica as it is now!!

Thank you for the opportunity to comment.
I am a member of the Sacred Heart Parish because of the people in this community, not because of the church building.

I have found this community to be caring, intelligent and actively living their faith through outreach locally and internationally. This is the Sacred Heart that I have come to love and have called home since 1983.

I find the existing nave and sanctuary to be beautiful and appropriate for worship by this community and the visitors that are attracted to Sacred Heart by our location, architecture and hospitality.
I am concerned that the Sacred Heart Community has not reached a reasonable consensus on the prospect of renovating the nave and sanctuary of our place of worship.

My initial reaction to a renovation is to think if it is not broken don’t fix it, but upon reflection I realize that things do not stay the same forever and do need to be refreshed and strengthened occasionally in order to endure. The current renovation initiative is an opportunity in that sense.

The strengthening of the sanctuary and nave designs should reflect the history of our parish’s worship here for over 125 years. To invoke another cliche, don’t throw the baby out with the bath; keep what items represent the parish history and character, and still reflect the current values of the community and good design. I believe this is especially important for the selection and design of items in the sanctuary. Not easy. Requires patience, flexibility and discernment.

Few parishioners will be completely satisfied with any design effort, but for a renovation that is properly pursued, the great majority should feel that the renovation is worth the effort and will result in a good, durable and more beautiful environment for worship by us and our visitors for many years to come.

I believe that, in the end, the current renovation effort will result in an even more beautiful sanctuary and nave, if parishioners' input is incorporated and if consensus is sought with patience and design flexibility.

Bob Balke
03.08.2024

Bill, my late husband, and I were active members of Sacred Heart parish for over 25 years. We were both Eucharistic Ministers while Bill served as a Lector an elected member of the Parish Council plus being its chair. I spent two terms on the Finance Committee and almost 20 years with the Wedding Guild. We were major contributors to the new organ as well as the downstairs renovation. The last major redo of the interior was completed after we joined in 1989. It created a beautiful, spirit-filled sanctuary that was just perfect for our historic church. I’m baffled as to why a decision seems to have been made, with little or no feedback from the parish based on what I read, to destroy the sanctity of the Basilica by “modernizing” it. I’ve reviewed the proposed changes online and I’m appalled by many of them. Please let me explain.

My first impression of the remodeled altar area looked to me like a ladies’ restroom with a giant toilet placed in the center! Second, the removal of the altar rails demeans the historical significance of the building; it’s easy to find modern churches with no altar rail throughout the Atlanta Archdiocese (I currently attend one of them). However, our building’s place on the National Register of Historic Places should be respected. I realize that this designation doesn’t protect the interior of a building but sincerely hope that our parish leaders will step up to do the right thing. Third, in my opinion the plan to replace the wood floors and carpet with marble will create a cacophony of deafening noises such that all reverence and hopes for prayerful worship or adequate hearing are lost. Fourth, why on earth should faux stone painting cover the original plastic/alabaster walls?

I spend time each year in Florida and attend Mass at a 95 years old historic church, also on the Registry. Its plaster walls were covered up with a faux surface many years ago during a renovation and it looked awful. Thankfully, they’ve gone back to the earlier look which is beautiful and bright. Because Sacred Heart tends to be somewhat dark, adding darker paint to the interior makes no sense to me, especially considering the cost to do so and the maintenance nightmare it creates. Fifth, the Baldachin, full-size Crucifix, brass Ambo and peach tree light fixtures currently in the altar area are truly pieces that make the church very unique and special. Were any of these items included in Sacred Heat’s application to be designated as a Basilica? Again, why “modernize” its historic interior and lose some of its spirituality?

I’m quite aware of the costs involved in maintaining the physical plant/building; I fully support making all necessary repairs and any required replacements. However, I cannot endorse the majority of the proposed changes. May I remind Fr. John, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it!” Destroying Sacred Heart Basilica’s beautiful current interior and spending millions of dollars to do so will be a colossal blunder closely akin to Archbishop Gregory’s Buckhead mansion mistake.

I am an Atlanta native, born and raised Catholic, never knowing a time when there wasn't an Atlanta Archdiocease. I started attending Mass at Sacred Heart with my best friend in the early 90's once I began attending high school at St. Pius X. I later met my husband who was baptized and grew up at Sacred Heart and was an Atler Server his entire youth. It was our spiritual connection when we were dating and became the center heart of our family when we got married in 2000 at Sacred Heart 24 years ago! Our family relationship to Sacred Heart goes back to the early days of the parish. My husband and his family members, including grandparents and parents, have received sacraments here. My dad grew up here attending Marist College through high school. My grandfather was the Vice President of Haverty's Furniture and attended Mass at Sacred Heart, with his friend Clarence Haverty. Our children have received their sacraments here and are the 4th generation in our family to be parish members. Both of my daugthers were / are in the Chidlren's Choir for their entire childhood. I echo another comment here by saying that my history doesn't make my opinion more important, but I feel deeply connected to Sacred Heart. Quite simply it has always been a part of my life or my family's life in some capacity to grow, enrich, and humbly guide us in our Catholic faith.
We drive on Sundays from Duluth to Atlanta. 26.6 miles. It takes on average 30-40 minutes if traffic is nice to us. We debated when we settled into Duluth about the long drive and tried other parishes around town. But none of them felt right. None of the parishes, felt like home. So we committed to making Sacred Heart our parish always and will continue to do so.
Many comments here have stated the sanctuary contains beloved artifacts donated by our ancestors through the years that contribute to the uniqueness that is our beautiful and historic church. I wholeheartedly agree! While it is obvious that the electrical repairs and paint are needed, I do support those and we will contribute whatever we can to help in those areas. However, there are so many plans to change the Sanctuary that I cannot get behind. For example, removing the crucifix, which I simply do not understand. It breaks my heart and makes me deeply sad. I am also worried about the financial burden that this will mount on to the church. What if the rennovation (not repairs) cannot be paid for? What happens? I pray that a common sense solution can be found here that preserves the history of our beautiful church home.
Sincerely,
Jane Barrett

Though I left the parish in 2009 for personal reasons, I was an active parishioner for over 10 years, serving on the Parish Council and in numerous ministries. I have remained close to many parishioners and still feel very connected to Sacred Heart. I fully support any necessary maintenance improvements to the church, but oppose the larger renovation project. Like many others have said, so many of the items proposed to be removed are historical in nature and should remain for that reason alone. I also agree that "redecoration" is a misuse of funds that would be better used to serve those in need. Finally, I am very concerned to learn that the Parish Council has been eliminated. The parish belongs to the parishioners and their voices should be heard in all matters through their elected Parish Council. I pray that the parishioners and church leaders can agree on a way to maintain and preserve our beloved Basilica in a way that respects her history and all who have found peace, comfort, and a relationship with Christ in her beautiful sanctuary.

I'm upset that we wound up with such a radical priest. We are much better than this. I regret that I have tithed as much as I have, however, I no longer will be doing this as this church will not have my support. It hurts my heart and soul so bad that this could possibly happen.

This is neither change nor a "renovation" of needed repairs. This is a sacrilegious destruction of a holy and sacred place. This will no longer be a Basilica, but only a church. This will be the demise of this parish and understandably so. This priest and Archbishop are cowards for not facing the parishioners or hearing our cries. Is this what Jesus would do? NO. This priest will be gone from this parish one day and we will be left with an empty shell of a church. And some wonder why the Catholic church and their leaders are looked at negatively by some. This is a perfect example.

I found myself as a young women at Sacred Heart in February of 1992 when my father was diagnosed with a malignent brain tumor. I was working downtown and I always admired the historical beauty of this church. I knew this was a special place that I wanted to be a part of. I walked up to the door one Sunday morning and there stood our beloved Sister Valentina. She instantly knew something was wrong with me. I told her about my father and she took me in with open arms. From that moment, I became a parishioner and became very active. My husband and I were married her 3 months later and our 2 children were baptized here. My entire family over the years became very active in various roles, as well as also being married here and many childeren being bapized here. When I heard about what is planned for our Beloved Basilica, I actually had a negative physical reaction. How could anyone in their right mind think that erasing the history of this church is a just and right thing.
Just last week I traveled to Rome for the first time, including the Vatican, and while there visited Basilica after Basilica. They do not and have not erased their history, they cherish it and honor it. Only in the US do we do this, tear down history with no regards of the long term consequences. While I was there I wrote the POPE a letter and attached all the supporting documentation. I also sent a copy of my letter to Cardinal Dolan in NY and WSB TV all of which I know who would want to know this, especially the POPE.
Our Basilica was blessed as a Basilica for a reason. A place where Mother Teresa once stood and visited. God rest her soul she is probably turning over in her grave.
This can not happen it is sacrilegious. Do not change history. There is nothing wrong with the way it is. This is a sacred place.

I worked at the Basilica years ago for a short while as what was then titled Parish Manager.
I want to add that many of the people who have commented on this website have volunteered at the church for years. They do it because they love God and love and respect this beautiful and sacred church. They do not necessarily need to be invited to volunteer by another parishioner.
The church has always had many devoted volunteers. If it is lacking that now perhaps there is a reason. It would be helpful to the whole congregation if the current administration would address that reason.
One good way of doing that is to include the parishioners in the major decision of the total renovation of the Basilica.
Meet with the people and let them have a voice. The church should not be a dictatorship.
Also it would be consistent with good church good management to elect a Parish council.
Please, please pray and ask yourself if this exclusion of the people of the parish is really what Jesus wants?
🙏

Some things are dead on arrival because of the way in which they are executed and this is one of many during this Pastorate. Decisions are made based upon the whims and opinions of the Pastor and three of his advisors. Committees are gone. This is taking away from donations, volunteers and support and detracting from the mission of the parish. People are leaving. That is the problem. You cannot do anything about a problem you don't admit is there. At least four people are in denial of that. I pray that things work out. Sacred Heart is lovely parish. You deserve much better than what you are getting. Best wishes to the good people in the pews at Sacred Heart.

I love seeing how much so many people love our parish. I’d like to invite everyone who hasn’t yet to please join us in our many ministries that support so many of the wonderful things folks here have mentioned that they would like our parish to do. Please reach out to Kelly Schreckenberger to volunteer your time and resources to our parish ministries. Thanks so much!

Sacred Heart undoubtedly needs some repairs and upgrades, and we support those items such as electrical system work, sound system improvements, plaster repair and so on. However, that accounts for only a third or so of the budget. The remainder we feel is a poor use of valuable resources. The church across the street is spending their funds on building low income housing and schools. That is truly serving the community.

Beyond the necessary repairs, the remodeling of the Basilica does not have my support. Just as inspired Scripture, the current art and architecture of the Basilica was inspired by its creators to teach us truths and uplift us in worship with varied focal points for meditation.

I found Sacred Heart in 2014 when I moved intown from Sandy Springs and immediately fell in love with the historical features inside the church, especially the baldachin and crucifix. I am reminded of the beautiful churches and basilicas across Europe every time I attend mass. I would like to save our sanctuary in its current form with only necessary maintenance repairs. We are a landmark building in this city, and removing all of the significant interior items to make way for a stark, modern interior at a cost of more than 3 million dollars seems wasteful and unnecessary at this time.

Since Covid, our parish is often behind with the weekly offertory and with finances in general. Therefore, I cannot support this renovation as I fear it could bankrupt our parish. Additionally, I favor keeping the historic interior elements as these all tell the story of the Basilica from its beginning back in the 19th century.

I am not a Parrishner but visit constantly since I attended St Joseph High School from 1962-1966. Every morning I would go inside to say prayers for everyone. It holds a lot of history for myself and the city. I’ve noticed several Churches especially in downtown Atlanta spending unnecessary money for improvements to a historic Church. There is much more that could be done with millions that we spend that is not needed.
Save Sacred Heart Basilica as it is now!!

Americans travel to foreign lands to experience beautiful, historic, preserved places of worship, but in America we continue to erase history and beauty. Whether you attended Sacred Heart or no longer believe, it is a place of peace and beauty where for decades thousands of Atlantans have wed, been baptized, graduated, worshiped, sought solitude. Sacred Heart speaks to not only those who worship there, but to curators, historians, artists, craftspeople - new churches do not offer the artistic, rich interiors that enriched the older churches. How many people were led to the enjoyment of art, or careers in painting, sculpture, architecture,carpentry, history from exposure to the interior of such a church. Though, not a parishioner my first memory of Sacred Heart is attending Mass there at age 3,later as a student at St Joseph's HS Sacred Heart was an important part of our Catholic life.

I absolutely love The Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Atlanta. I've never been a parishioner, but I was drawn to the Church shortly after my wholly unmerited (and completely unexpected) reversion in early 2021. I soon became a "regular" at daily masses, often confessing with Fr. John Howren on Fridays and, during Lent, participating in the Stations of the Cross -- usually with my sons in tow.

Sacred Heart is home to the city of Atlanta's single greatest treasure: A Relic of the Holy Cross. It unquestionably houses Atlanta's most beautiful sanctuary and altar. I am grateful that it has retained features linking it to the saints of our forefathers, while also containing a direct link to a holy saint of our time: St. Theresa of Calcutta, whose beatification made one of Sacred Heart's beautiful historic pews an actual relic.

It is no wonder that when the Traditional Latin Mass first returned to Atlanta after Ecclesia Dei, its first home was at Sacred Heart.

Our Basilica is closely connected with two other amazingly beautiful churches along the I-75 corridor: The Basilica of Sts. Peter & Paul in Chattanooga, and St. Joseph's Church in Macon.

All three were planted in the late 19th / early 20th century protestant deep South -- each built lovingly with meticulous detail to offer what we now call the Extraordinary Form of the Mass, orienting souls heavenward.

From the time they were built through to the present day, all three are objectively the crown jewels of their respective cities. All three were threatened by plummeting attendance during the post-conciliar years--the neighborhoods surrounding them having become dangerous and crime-ridden. And all three survived the dark years and have more recently become catalysts for those same neighborhoods' recoveries renewals.

Beyond their beauty, the three churches share distinct features and characteristics. The two Basilicas -- Sacred Heart and Sts. Peter & Paul -- feature Baldachins, High Altars, Tabernacles and life-sized Crucifixes of Our Lord that are very similar and immediately recognizable in relation to each other.

St. Joseph's in Macon, while not yet a Basilica, is actually larger than Sacred Heart and Sts. Peter & Paul. Its glorious Munich-made stained glass windows are immediately recognizable to those who've visited Sacred Heart. Some windows are nearly identical.

Like Sacred Heart, both Sts. Peter & Paul and St. Joseph have undergone recent capital campaigns and renovations. Sts. Peter & Paul's campaign, like "Save the Spires," was mostly focused on structural integrity (they had to put on a new roof), but a latter portion of their successful campaign added a beautiful new reliquary to the sanctuary. Their renovation also included pious details--like the re-installation of the altar rail--that made it a more appropriate venue to host Masses in the Extraordinary Form once again.

St. Joseph's recent renovation included two glorious new frescos behind the Mary and Joseph side altars that perfectly complement its historic glass and existing frescoes. Like Sts. Peter & Paul, details were included to enable the Extraordinary Form of the Mass.

In recent years, the Extraordinary Form has flourished in both of these parishes.

The recent renovations at Sts. Peter & Paul and St. Joseph stand in stark contrast to the current proposals for Sacred Heart's unexpectedly divisive final chapter of the "Save the Spires" campaign.

Unlike the truly restorative, tradition-minded campaigns at her glorious sister churches in Chattanooga and Macon, the "For a Time Such As This" plans honor our generation at the expense of our forebears. The plans are not restorative, but distinctly modernizing. Rather than make the sanctuary more appropriate and accommodating for the Extraordinary Form of the Mass for which the church was built by our forebears -- as was done at St. Joseph and Sts. Peter & Paul -- the proposals at Sacred Heart make it impossible to celebrate the Extraordinary Form without further or temporary modifications.

Why?

How can this please Our Lady?

Is this what Her Divine Son would want us to do?

And if not for their benefit and praise, then whom is this for?

Why break the chain that unites these three great churches and links our children to their glorious heritage here in the often Catholic-hostile South?

I urge everyone who has any role to play in the "For Such a Time as This" campaign to set aside some time to commute to Chattanooga and Macon. Both can easily be visited in a driving day trip (although I would advise that you dedicate a day to each -- instead of trying to do both in the same day).

Soak in the majesty and beauty of Sts. Peter & Paul and St. Joseph. Notice all the details that connect them to Sacred Heart. See, especially at St. Joseph's, what a campaign like "For Such a Time as This" could be.

And please pray.

I will continue to pray for my brothers and sisters at Sacred Heart and for Fr. John Howren.

Thank you for allowing me to comment and for reading my thoughts.

Peace & joy,

Edgar

It is a shame that the church no longer has a Parish Council to provide advice on matters related to finances. If the church still had such a council, the current proposal to totally change the look of the basilica would not be on the table. As anyone with any financial knowledge whatsoever can see, the parish does not have the money to support such extravagance nor the ability to raise such an enormous amount of money. There are basic repairs that need to be done, such as repainting, fixing the elevator to permit more parishioners and visitors to partake in the Masses and other related issues. These types of repairs would be supported by the parishioners as they amount to basic upkeep. Running up significant debt for changes that are neither needed nor desired by the parishioners could easily result in the church going bankrupt. I do not support "For Such a Time as This". The title is at best humorous as this is clearly NOT the time or the place for this.

I can appreciate the need for renovations related to safety but I am opposed to this drastic and sterile look that is proposed. Each of the symbols in the Basilica of the Sacred Heart have history and meaning. No ... this is a change that is neither needed nor wanted. Then there's the matter of money: $3 M. Seriously? No.

Father John should be sent to Rome where he begin modernizing those old Basilicas. They haven't been updated in over 400 years. That one called Saint Peter's, they should start with that Alter monstrosity with it's twisted pillars, it is so old fashioned. That Sistine Chapel could use a fresh paint job, like a nice eggshell. That's just a short list but a good place to start.

Maybe a monastery would be better. Then he wouldn't be able to destroy another church.

“Oh Jerusalem, Jerusalem …” began Jesus’s heartbreaking lament over the people’s and (given the context) especially religious leaders’, unwillingness to embrace his message of compassion for each other and particularly the marginalized and poor. Starting in 1973 my wife and I were parishioners at SH for many years. Even though I was employed in the suburbs, we had moved into city drawn by historic houses and buildings. We hoped to help stem white-flight and racial divides. I also hoped an established downtown parish like Sacred Heart would be able to avoid expensive building projects and would focus it’s resources on creating a community unafraid of outreaching to a wounded city and world. While I admired the craftsmanship in Sacred Heart’s architecture and windows, they weren’t a big draw for me. Both the name and building seemed to harken back to a time when the Catholic Church was at war with Protestantism and the secular world at large.

Over the years some of our hopes actually materialized. We joined Sacred Heart’s fledging folk group where mass was followed by good-sized gathering at Gino’s pizza. Fr. Cavallo spearheaded this as well as an ecumenical coffee house at the Common Cup that we helped run for over five years. We became involved with Marriage Encounter and Fr. Larry Hines at Ignatius House. For a couple years I tried to organize the adult ed classes at Sacred Heart. By bringing in gifted speakers, including Nobel Peace prize winners from Ireland, we packed the room and were often challenged to see church more as “mission to” rather than as “refuge from”. The parish even hired a dynamic outreach minister, Tom Reichert, who lead us down to Haiti. From this ServeHaiti, an independent non-profit, was formed. Gail Ronan organized Habitat for Humanity builds and a night-shelter ministry was started that continues to this day.
But these efforts usually occurred at the margins of the parish. Most pastors seemed to tolerate lay-lead efforts, rather than welcome them. Many pastors, and parishioners too, seek a sanctuary from the world and its many troubles. Spirituality is seen as “escaping from” rather than “engagement with”. Too often I’ve seen committed parishioners leave because of lackluster support. In frustration and disappointment, I gave up and joined them several years ago.

So from afar, the current $3 million project looks to me like another chapter in the church’s playbook of dumping millions into buildings with little discernment of what is really needed. The fact that SH has no parish council is particularly concerning. If you’ve visited Europe lately, you’ll see where this can lead– scores of empty historic church buildings while the real needs of the people and world are ignored or dismissed.

When I stepped into Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus as a visitor in January 2024, the beauty of the sanctuary captivated me. When I learned about the revision, I knew I needed to speak up. There is a book on Catholic church architecture that explains why Catholic churches are built the way they are, which the Basilica as it stands, adheres to. The book is called "Catholic Church Architecture and the Spirit of the Liturgy". The book was endorsed by many. To mention a few: Bishop Robert Barron, Scott Hahn--Professor of Theology and Scripture Franciscan University of Stubenville, and David Fagerberg--Associate Professor of Theology at University of Notre Dame. It can be purchased on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Catholic-Church-Architecture-Spirit-Liturgy/dp/1595250271

This book details the importance of following the Bible as it pertains to Catholic church architecture and how many Catholic churches built in the 1960’s onward do not follow these sacred guidelines. Studying this book would be a way for the parish as a whole to avoid making emotional decisions.

I am a long term parishioner of Sacred Heart who has seen the parish battle crises, setbacks, triumphs and change. Through it all, we have survived by coming together to work out solutions and plans. I pray that through prayer and reflection we will find a way to take a breath and start a new conversation.
Perhaps, this plan is not "for a time such as this". From what I can see, it looks like we are having trouble meeting our budgeted expenses. Is it right to ask for new contributions or to take on debt now for anything other than necessary improvements?
I know a lot of work has gone into this project. It needs to be revisited, however. Perhaps now is not the time. There is so much polarization in the world today. I hope as a parish we can use our energy to make the community a better place.
Thanks.

Most of my childhood memories have Sacred Heart in them as my grandmother lived down the street at 710 Peachtree Street. I went to St. Joseph's High School and Sacred Heart served us as an anchor.
Life led me to a career in construction and I served on Arch Dioc Building Commitee for ten years, helping parishes thru their building projects. In 2009 I was asked to coordinate the 3-million-dollar, renovation of our parish hall, atrium and rectory buildings.
"Living Stones" guidelines of the Nation Conference of Catholic Bishops, #175 states that " beginning the process demands prayer and reflection. It is not the work of the pastor alone or building committee. It is the act of faith that belongs to and engages the entire community." #176 "calls for a deepening sense of ownership taking the time to educate, listen to people's concerns and discuss the vision and values at stake. This will ensure relationships amount parish members are strengthened rather than stained by the project."
The proposed renovation process has fallen short of the outlined process. It has been very exclusive and requests to have parish hall meetings on the project have been ignored. During our last large renovation project, we had many inclusive, transparent meetings so that all concerns could be voiced.
It concerns me deeply that the parish can entertain a Parish Hall/Zoom meeting on the City of Atlanta "Stich Project", that will propose park like areas over the expressway behind Sacred Heart and we cannot have that process for our own parish renovation.
The extreme proposed change to our Historic Basilica deserves transparent meetings so the concerns of all can be heard and a consensus reached. We need this in order to save what we hold so dear to all our hearts.

I am vehemently opposed to such radical and drastic changes to our Basilica. Removing and covering up so much of the beauty and historical details of Sacred Heart would be a tragedy. I can't imagine walking in and not seeing the baldachin and crucifix. Why would removing this even be considered? And to paint over the mural of Christ revealing his sacred heart...unfathomable. Surely the money can be spent on something better than gutting the Basilica and removing its history, in what can only be assumed is an attempt to meet modern tastes, which will be out of style in a year or 2.

Hi. I wanted you to know that I am opposed to this because I love the historic nature of our church. Our pews are just fine. I love the cross just where it is. Anything that Hass to be redone for safety is fine with me, but otherwise we just replace the carpets and Much of this is unnecessary and way too expensive when so many people are homeless and hungry.

I am all for a restoration of what we already have. It is not clear to me who was on the committee that decided to renovate and not restore this beautiful sanctuary and Church. I do not understand why the altar rails have to go. Many people kneel at the rails in front of the statue of our Blessed Mother to pray. It almost feels like you are close to her. The committee will take that intimacy from us. Having the American saints painted in the Triumphal Arch instead of commemorating the 4 Evangelists seems to take away from the deep connection and history of our Church's beginnings to our present day. I favor placing the American saints portraits somewhere else as they are examples of how to continue the work our Lord wants us to do. I do not support them taking the place of our connection to our Church's beginnings. I also believe we should keep the life-sized Crucifix. Most people are visual learners and will need this visual, life-like reminder of what our Lord went through to purchase our salvation. Anything modern will simply be a piece of art. Please understand Fr. John and committee. This is way too modern for an historic church and seems to water down our faith.

Sadly, this online dialogue would have no reason to exist if the planning for this major renovation would have included the input of all of its parishioners (stakeholders). I, in no way shape or form, wish to disrepect our pastor, or the planning committee, but like a co-worker of mine said with regard to a current situation at work, "when the leadership does not come from the top down, but rather from the bottom up, it is called a revolution". I pray that this can be resolved in a respectful and reasonable manner.

To whom it may concern……Please don’t waste good money to change something that’s not broken….I am only a visitor, but I see worth and value here, just as it is….You have such a lovely church….. Please don’t think you are moving forward making these changes….It will become like all the rest…Stark and cold!!!! Perhaps a novena of some sort will help……What would God really want you to do with the three million????? My vote is a no….

My great-grandmother was a charter parishioner at Sacred Heart Church. Since that time, my family has celebrated most of our family services, Masses, and celebrations in this beautiful and sacred space. My grandparents (1941), my parents (1964), and my husband and I (1995) were married at Sacred Heart. My grandfather was an usher at the 5:30 p.m. Saturday Mass for decades. I'm sharing all this because Sacred Heart is a part of my family - who we are, how we celebrate, and where we feel at home. I feel heartbroken that there's an effort to make such drastic changes to this time-honored, historic, and blessed space. I can look back at images from my grandparents wedding and see the beautiful altar with the crucifix. The lamps with the round bulbs are even as old! I can close my eyes and feel the spirit of God when I think of this holy sanctuary. The rush to make drastic changes is such a part of our modern world where new seems better and tradition is easily tossed to the side. I think of all the churches I've had the privilege to visit in other parts of the world - churches with interiors that may have been updated, but the design and style are what make these beautiful churches special. They have a history. They tell a story. They are a part of our faith and family. Let's keep Sacred Heart, a Basilica and listed with the The National Register of Historic Places, as it is. The official list of the Nation's historic places worthy of preservation. Preservation meaning to preserve - to maintain in its original or existing state.

Sacred Heart reminds me of the church I attended as a boy. It is warm , comfortable, calm, and stately. It became my home church in Atlanta. There are a number of other churches that I could attend, but they all seem cold and impersonable compared to SH. The proposed changes would destroy the entire atmosphere and dramatically alter what should be an uplifting and sacred experience into one that is much less than it should be I served on the finance committee for several years, so I do have an idea of funding etc. The money needed for these alterations will be hard to come by and could be better spent in other areas. I am 100gainst the destruction of our beautiful sanctuary, but I can support doing the needed maintainence and improvements to the electrical and sound systems.

On my first visit to Sacred Heart I was impressed by the beauty, the warmth, the comfort, and the sacredness one experienced when entering the sanctuary. As a result I became Catholic and a parishioner of SH.as did my son. Although I do not have the many years of history that many have, I participated and helped where I could as an usher-greeter-server-various ministries-parish councel{2 yrs as chair}-finance committee-1 of 3 that started and ran the gift shop-money counter-KoC-etc. I am all for maintaining and making improvements , especially to electrical and sound systems, I am very much against erasing our history and destroying the very things that attract people to SH. The proposed changes would change the character and feel of our very special place. Most churches would love to have the very things that would be removed. I truly hope that more thought and consideration is given to this proposal so that we do not become an imitation of a modern cold suburbanlike church that nobody attends

My family has been a part of Sacred Heart since my great grandparents joined in 1898. Countless family members, including grandparents and both parents, have been baptized, received sacraments and have had their funerals here. My grandchildren are now the 5th generation being raised in Sacred Heart.
I have served on the Parish Council as well as the Liturgy Committee in years past. I have been a member of the Basilica Choir for 40 years and involved with the Children’s Choir from 1984-1993, and 2004 to the present day.
This history does not make me any more “important” than someone who has just come to SH, however I feel that it does give me some perspective. As others have stated the sanctuary contains beloved artifacts donated by our ancestors through the years and contribute to the uniqueness that is our beautiful and historic church. I cannot support the radical changes proposed for the sanctuary. It would be too heartbreaking for many of us.
I do plan to contribute toward the necessary electrical work and repairs to the paint.
I pray for God’s wisdom that we can all come together.
Sincerely In Christ,
Mallen Millard Zabinski

It’s one thing to express an opinion in a forum about your ideas concerning the renovation, but it’s a completely different thing to criticize our priest in a public forum. It’s wrong! A private rift should be settled privately and it’s my hope that this will occur.

I am in favor of most of the renovation and have expressed my opinions and ideas directly to Father John. I love our parish.

I am against the proposed remodeling of Sacred Heart. The church is beautiful and functional as is and I see no reason to spend so much money unnecessarily.

I am very upset of the thought that our lovely church would be changed so dramatically especially not having the beautiful altar. I don't see the necessity of spending so much money on renovations that could otherwise be used for much more beneficial purposes therefore I cannot support this plan.

I was baptized at Sacred Heart 66 years ago and it has been my spiritual home for my entire life providing me with a source of warmth and comfort throughout all of life’s joys and sorrows due greatly in part to its unique esthetic beauty that not only pleases the eye but most importantly inspires the soul. Needless to say, and I can’t stress this enough, it is most disconcerting to imagine Sacred Heart without it’s beautiful and majestic altar and crucifix and the absence of the glorious painting of Jesus surrounded by angels rising high above the altar. These are the profoundly significant features that make our church not only unique but indeed sacred to the hearts and minds of most of its parishioners. Given my deep emotional connection with Sacred Heart’s sanctuary I cannot possibly support it being drastically remodeled. I believe that any money raised would be best served by using it to further maintain our current historical structure and to support our many ministries. Change is inevitable in life but certain things should be cherished and preserved not only for ourselves but for future generations. May God grant us all the wisdom needed to come together in order to keep Sacred Heart the truly special spiritual place it has always been.

I am opposed to the proposed changes to the sanctuary. The proposal says that the changes would restore the sanctuary to how it looked when the church was built in 1898. What this proposed “restoration “ ignores is fact that all the changes that have occurred in the sanctuary since then are a part of what Sacred Heart has been in the past and what it is today. To remove treasures such as the baldachin, crucifix, ambo, “peach trees” obliterate this past and destroy the contributions of the generations of parishioners who responsible for them. I have been fortunate enough over the years to show Sacred Heart to visitors and to listen to their comments about the beauty and holiness of the church. I have observed people over the years come up after Mass to take pictures of the sanctuary. They understand as do our parishioners that we have something that can no longer be found in most churches, a rare connection to past that is no longer available in most churches. Please do not destroy our beautiful heritage. Leave it as it is for future generations to also appreciate the sublimity that we have been able to experience in our time at Sacred Heart.

Dear Rev. Pastor,

During a routine visit home this last Christmas, I have become aware that you are planning some renovations to Sacred Heart Church’s interior. A sister gave me the email address to send comments.

By way of introduction, I was baptized in Sacred Heart (1942), as was my father (1918) and three of my four sisters (1943, 1944 and 1946). My maternal grand-parents (Egarts) and my paternal great-grandmother (Adkins) were at the cornerstone laying for Sacred Heart’s Church. I believe my maternal Great-Grandmother Murphy was also at that cornerstone laying. I went to kindergarten, first and second grades at Sacred Heart School, and seventh grade at Marist (1954-55). My Mother, an uncle and many aunts and cousins went to, and graduated from SHS, SHHS and Marist. Many close relatives were buried from Sacred Heart Church, including Cousin Joe Keiley, who died in the landing at Guadalcanal.

Most of our family attended Christmas Mass at Sacred Heart this last Christmas, as we have done countless past Christmases and Easters, many of us traveling from afar to do so. I was given some information about tentative plans for the contemplated renovations. May I make a few comments:

Please be VERY, VERY cautious about substituting the statuary, especially that over the Blessed Virgin’s side altar and the main altar’s crucifix. Be cautious, as well, with regard to the stain glass windows. Many have historical relationships with Atlanta's founding families (e.g. the Haverty's, Cox's, etc.).

Also, I would be interested in knowing if there is some way to replace the candelabra framing the baldachin over what remains of the old main altar. The present candelabra are obviously the originals, and are much too frail to provide the brilliant light that they originally did. I know that previous research discovered that these original candelabra are not replicable as such. I wonder if more modern technology has some ideas?

Otherwise, may I wish you good luck and success in your renovations.

Yours sincerely in Christ,

I was just heart broken to hear of this renovation of our beloved Sacred Heart. My family has been at SH since it first became a parish - - over a 100 years ago - - Baptisms, weddings, funerals, the sacraments. My Grandparents were registered as pew paying members and they are listed in the history of SH (Egart). Needless to say I love SH just the way it is - - beautiful, warm, inviting you in to pray in a quiet and traditional setting. I do not wish it to be BARE of our beautiful artifacts. If I wanted to pray in a "modern" church then I could easily go find another parish to call home. I feel like this money to redecorate is unnecessary. Fixing the electrical, sound system and other regular maintenance is always necessary and usually expensive so I think collecting money for that is a good goal. Other priorities in my opinion would be to use money to help out all of SH ministries.

I’ve been attending mass at Sacred Heart since 1993, and became a formal parishioner in 2004, when my now husband and I were preparing to be married. Both of our children have been baptized at Sacred Heart, we attend mass at Sacred Heart every week we are in town. Everyone in our family is active in the parish with both time and treasure, including the recent Save the Spires campaign.

I chose this church in 1993 because of its beauty, we stay because of its beauty, Fr. John’s inspiring homilies and familiar faces at 10 am mass. There are two parishes much closer to where we live that have equally dynamic pastors.

When Fr. John first announced this campaign was occurring, I was shocked and thought, what did I miss? I still can not believe the current intention is to move forward with these drastic changes without opportunity for parishioner input, other than small setting invitation to meet. Church is about community, without its people it is just a building.

I have ZERO interest in supporting these renovations as they are depicted. That is not to mean that we are opposed to change and improvements. We would be happy to get behind improvements that would enhance the current design, not ones that erase our history and our uniqueness.

Fr. John, please bring your community of parishioners together and allow an opportunity for group involvement. The current approach and plan is dividing us.

First off I would like to say I have visited Sacred Heart many times in my 74 years and have been in absolute awe of the beauty and reverence of the sanctuary. However I noticed last Sunday during the 10:00 mass that the reverence was interrupted many times by the cries of children! I think that the money that it will take to reconstruct the sanctuary would be better spent on providing a nursery for the young children and perhaps even a teen worship center! After all, the youth are the future of Sacred Heart! Look around Atlanta, many of the Churches ⛪️ have closed their doors and in my opinion, many of the younger parishioners have lost interest in the Church and the elderly are dying off so I say put the money where it matters most . . . The Children!
Also I would like to add that I’m a native Atlantan and it saddens me to see the disappearance of our history! Sacred Heart is one of the few remaining historical sites left! Please don’t modernize, we have enough modern buildings, I say use that money for maintenance of the essentials and spend the rest on the young❣️The dark wood floors and pews give it warmth where all the proposed marble would make it cold and uninviting! Thanks for the opportunity to express my concerns.
Sincerely,
Mary Louise Davenport

The Basilica of Sacred Heart is a beautiful, historical church, and it's shocking to learn of proposed radical changes. The very elements they want to remove add to the beauty and history of the church. When one enters Sacred Heart they have a sense of awe & peace, & that would be compromised with the redecorating plans. Spending excessively is not being good stewards of the monies, as there are other needs far greater.

The interior as it is now is welcoming and calming and encourages prayer and mediation.
We need upgrades and repairs to electrical and sound and paint and some pews. We don't need redecoration.
We do not need to put on a show.
Sacred Heart is first of all our Parish Church, a Holy Place, a place that brings us together.
It should stay as it is now. All Parishioners should have been consulted about what they want from the beginning. We love Sacred Heart.
It is our Parish.

I have not been a member of the Basilica of the Sacred Heart long. I first visited the church in 2020, I was not fallen in love right away but as I continue to attend mass, I notice the exquisite beauty of the church such as the design on the wall in the sanctuary, warm lightening, high ceiling, and the arch. I am in favor of change to certain extend. I still would like to have the Life Size Crucifix, the Ambo, and the marble altar to be the same.

For years I have contributed to the renovation of Sacred Heart since I assumed I was contributing to the renovation, support, and upkeep of the historical building. I have recently learned that "renovation" translates as "modernizing" and have stopped contributing altogether until this is sorted out. The historic beauty and sanctity of Sacred Heart was a reason I was drawn to it in the first place. It is not sleek and modern like most other current churches but beautifully unique in its original warmness allowing a spiritual connection to all those who have worshipped and sought God there over many years. There is no other church like it and I feel that changing the part of it that makes it unique in order to make it more like modern churches would be a terrible mistake.

My name is Karen Geheber and I have been a member of our Basilica for over 40 years and a memeber of the Liturgical Choir for @ 37 years. I was drawn to this Church because of its exquisite beauty, particularly in the Sanctuary. In addition to its historical value, it offers a warmth and welcome like none other. I loved it then and continue to embrace it today.
I was married at Sacred Heart along with each of my 3 children. My boys served on the altar as well. It is a privilege to participate in the liturgies in such a sacred church.
I am NOT in favor of changing anything in the Sanctuary. I believe you are changing things that are the fabric of our faith. We must honor that as well as preserve it for future Catholics that want to make the Basilica their Church home.
While I am not in favor of changing the Sanctuary, I think the money can be better spent making needed repairs to the painting, electrical, sound, lighting, and other necessary improvements to an historical Church. Or possibly set monies aside for our ministries, the poor, or for those in need.
I have made my sentiments known to Father John and hope we can all come together and do what is best for our beloved Basilica.

Without getting into all the details, my general reaction to this major renovation plan is that it is an effort to turn our beautiful basilica into...a different beautiful basilica. I really love Sacred Heart as it is and don't want it to be drastically different!

Some of the specific elements I agree are upgrades, but some I personally consider to be downgrades, and many of the changes are neutral (not better or worse).

I also have vivid memories of the last time our church was painted. We had scaffolding up in the sanctuary for many months, which detracted from the worship experience. I believe this renovation will put the sanctuary completely out of service for many months, with some level of construction in progress for 2 years or more. Putting the price tag aside for now, this is a lot of "pain" to go through for minimal gain.

For these reasons, I have a hard time getting behind this plan.

Is it necessary to be an “all or nothing” project? I will contribute to the electrical and sound system updates but do not wish to contribute to the decor changes. I do not wish to see the crucifix removed. I have written to Fr John and made my feelings known on this subject.

My Family has been worshipping at Sacred Heart for almost 100 years. My Maternal grandfather became a parishioner in the later 1920’s. He was a usher for over 40 plus years. My mother was baptized at Sacred Heart in 1929 as a newborn. She went to Sacred Heart School for Girls from 1st-12th grade. She received all her Sacraments at Sacred Heart. Mom, married my Father there in January 1962. She was buried from Sacred Heart in April is 2007.

As a young child I attended Sunday 10:00am Mass with my Grandfather. We celebrated Christmas and Easter Mass at Sacred Heart. My favorite Christmas Mass was midnight Mass, with the consecrated side aisle candles lite. The reason I have written about my family’s history with Sacred Heart, is because it’s history is part of my personal Catholic worshiping history!

I was appalled when I saw the renovation rendering!!! Fr. John wants to rid the basilica of many of its historical features! He says he wants to bring it into modern times. I don’t have an issue with updating the Church’s electrical wiring or updating the sound system. However, I have strong feelings about the historical Cross (that was donated by the Altar and Rosary Society many years ago) being removed. I like the historical back altar. I like that the current altars are elevated so all the parishioners can see the priest during the mass. I think installing an altar that is only one to two steps above floor level will cause a visual problem for many parishioners.

I love that the craved marble kneeling rail in front of both the Mary and Joseph altars. They’re likeness is depicted in Sacred Heart’s magnificent Stain-glass windows.

I can see where some of the plaster work needs repairing and painting. However, the costly faux finishing to make the walls look like the Cathedral’s sandstone block walls, seems like an excessive expenditure. Our church wasn’t built with the same materials as the Cathedral was. If you want to worship in walls that look like the Cathedral, then go to Mass at the Cathedral of Christ the King. Don’t spend hundreds of thousands of dollars on want- a- be faux stone walls. I think picking a creamy beige paint color that matches the already installed fabric wall covering on the sanctuary walls would be a much better use of our financial resources.

The antique painting of the risen Jesus with the Angels needs repairing not erasing for a newer version.

Marble floors to replace the wooden Parquet floors are going to be expensive! The church’s foundation will need to be reenforced to handle all the added weight. Not to mention all the noise that comes with Terrazzo or shiny marble floors. There is also the problem of slip risk when those floors get wet. The wood floors are in keeping with the building materials of the period it which Sacred Heart was built. Replace the Parquet floors with regular hardwood floors. The carpet makes the Church space feel cozier. The carpet isn’t that old and it was expensive when it was purchased.

There has been some discussion about the replacement of all the pews as part of this “For Such a Time as This” project. It has been discussed that it would be cheaper to replace the pews than it would be restore them. I have heard the reasoning is because the pews are veneered and not worth repairing. If that is the case shouldn’t there be more than one wood type considered for the replacements? What will be done the the pews that exist in the Church now? Will they be offered to the parishioners as they have been in the past, or will they be trashed?

Last but not lease, is the issue of the Peach-tree chandeliers. Most people either love them or really dislike them. They like many of the antiquated aspects of our Historical Basilica, were donated to Sacred Heart Church. Will they be given back to the the heirs of the family that gifted them to Sacred Heart originally? Or will they be sold at auction and the money used to fund part of this restoration?

This is Atlanta’s Historical Basilica! It should be restored not gutted!!!

If someone wanted to gut and modernize St. Peter’s in Rome don’t you think that people all over the world would have something to say about it’s destruction? They sure would. Why shouldn’t the people of Sacred Heart, that will have to raise the Three plus Million dollars to fund this destruction of their Historical church, not have a vote on how they want their money spent and what their funds will be used to create?

It is important that this restoration be paused until more detailed discussion about the “For Such a Time as This”project occurs! There hasn’t been enough consideration given to this Basilica’s history! Has the Historical Society of Antique Churches and Buildings, the Archbishop of Atlanta, and the United States Cardinal’s been made aware of all these drastic changes to the Basilica of Sacred Heart?

These are all very significant questions that need to be asked and answered. I am glad this website was created so I can express my true concerns about the “For Such a Time as This” restoration project.

I am opposed to the modernization and changes of the altar and Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus for a number of reasons.
1. There was no discussion with the church community prior to the done deal that was presented. I believe an open discussion would have precluded this from ever happening.
2.The taking down of the cross and Jesus in the center of the altar p this is why we go to Church. A painting of Jesus high above the altar and out of sight does not do Him justice as the CENTER of our faith. I think there should be a larger Jesus o the Cross in the center of the altar.
3. Adding modern saints in place of Jesus as the center makes no sense. Jesus and God are the CENTER of our faith and not any of the saints
4. I don't know anyone that is in favor of the proposed changes. When I talk to any Catholics that are parishioners, current or previous, they are shocked that anyone would consider the changes as many consider the Basilica right now to be the most beautiful, historical Church in the whole Atlanta Diocese. Why modernize an old beautiful Church instead of just making the needed repairs to maintain it? What are they thinking??
5. Save the money for the poor and needy.

I like Fr John and am glad he is the Pastor however I do not agree with the proposed renovations of this sacred church.
I was the Parish Manager for awhile when Fr Churchwell was Pastor. There was an active elected Parish council and Finance committee. Fr Churchwell worked with them..especially no major decisions were implemented without seeking approval.
I learned also that this church is not just a building it is a very Sacred Space. The reasons for my feeling this way are many but one needs to have been there and experiencing funeral Masses, showing it to people who expressed their feelings when entering, and being able to just enter and experience the peace of the church when we were going through some trying experiences.
There is a sacredness there that makes it more than just a building that can be changed without much prayer and discernment by the Parish community.
I just ask that Fr John would "put things on hold" and let the voice of the body of Parishioners..many who have experienced that sacredness for years have a voice before imposing such major changes to not just a building but a very "Sacred" place.

Has the Atlanta Historical Society been consulted about this proposed change??

When you ask if I am for "As such a time as this" are you asking if we're for the wreckovation, or if we're for the organization "such a time as this?"

WE NEED TO PAUSE THIS PROJECT AND ALLOW FOR INPUT OF ALL PARISHIONERS BEFORE PROCEEDING.
The focus should be to maintain the Church as it is, not a redecoration project that dramatically alters the worship experience of parishioners and visitors alike. We are a historical Church, not a structure that needs to be updated with every trend. Please speak up to Save Our Sanctuary before it is too late. Plans call for getting underway in 2024. . .we are now in 2024!

We need to reach consensus on the future of our Basilica which means we need to engage in dialogue. Let your voice be heard. You can leave your comments on this website and you can take part in the poll to show the level of support and or opposition to "For Such A Time as This". You can send emails to our Pastor and the Archbishop. Do speak up! This is our history and the history of Atlanta too.

With a forty year history with the Basilica of Sacred Heart, our family cares deeply that her history be revered and protected. We have 3 generations linked to Sacred Heart currently and would like for it to still be Sacred Heart for generations to come.

Sacred Heart will no longer be Sacred Heart without its familiar carpet, white walls, triumphal arch paintings, life-size crucifix and towering gold baldachin. Sacred Heart's historical integrity and beauty are under attack by the proposed "For Such a Time as This" project that will remove all of these distinct features. The elimination of our elected Parish Council and a rejection of a parish-wide town hall has allowed the fast-tracking of a scheme to erase 125 years of history. It would be a complete travesty for this project to continue. Everyone opposed must come together to let our Basilica and the Archdiocese know that these changes are unnecessary and unwanted. Stop any donations to this project, immediately.

This is not a renovation or redecoration.
DO NOT BE MISLED!
This is a DESTRUCTION of our beloved Sanctuary.
We must not allow this to happen!
Please do not fund this destruction.
"For Such a Time as This" must be defeated. There is no middle ground.
Yes, we should complete "Save the Spires," and fund needed maintenance and improvements, but our historical Sanctuary must be preserved for future generations!