Congressman Recognizes 125th Anniversary of Sacred Heart Church

Congressman John Shimkus entered a statement into the permanent Congressional Record recognizing Sacred Heart Catholic Church of Effingham on their 125th anniversary.

"Whether by providing an education to its children, giving back through its community-based services, or extending Sacred Heart's ministry to South America, Sacred Heart Church has been a focal point for the religious and spiritual needs of Effingham," Shimkus said. "I wish the church and its pastor, the Reverend Michal Rosa, the very best as they celebrate the church's 125th anniversary."

Here is the Congressman's statement as read into the Congressional Record:

 HONORING THE 125TH ANNIVERSARY OF SACRED HEART CHURCH

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. JOHN SHIMKUS

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, July 16, 2018

  Mr. SHIMKUS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Sacred Heart Church of 
Effingham, Illinois, on the occasion of its 125th anniversary.
  Sacred Heart Church was first started when a few German immigrant 
families first came together for worship. The Masses were given 
originally in German but on January 1, 1892, Sacred Heart Church and 
School were officially established, and since they have given Masses in 
English.
  What started with nine families has since grown to a congregation of 
over 900 families, giving Sacred Heart Church a strong presence in 
Effingham. Over the years, generations of worshipers have called Sacred 
Heart home. The church's theme, ``Grounded in Faith, Focused on the 
Future'' reflects the proud heritage of the parish and the many local 
and international activities congregants are involved in. Whether by 
providing an education to its children, giving back through its 
community-based services, or extending Sacred Heart's ministry to South 
America, Sacred Heart Church has been a focal point for the religious 
and spiritual needs of Effingham.
  The celebratory year is themed ``Faith and Family,'' and Sacred Heart 
Parish began its 125th anniversary last year with a Mass celebrated by 
Bishop Thomas J. Paprocki, followed by a Halloween parade and themed 
activities.
  Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge an important milestone for 
Sacred Heart Church, and I wish it, and its pastor, the Reverend Michal 
Rosa, the very best as they celebrate the church's 125th anniversary.