Our Mission:

To strengthen the community through worship, to live the Gospel with compassion and joy, and, guided by the Holy Spirit, to meet the needs of the people.

A Brief History of Sacred Heart Church of Ocean Beach

Sacred Heart Catholic Church was established on May 10, 1911, by Rt. Rev. Bishop Thomas Cantwell, the Ordinary of Los Angeles and San Diego. The original church, a small redwood structure measuring 40 by 24 feet, was erected on the corner of Santa Monica and Sunset Cliffs (then called Defoe Street). In 1924, the church was moved to its current location at 4776 Saratoga Avenue, after the purchase of lots at the corner of Saratoga and Sunset Cliffs Boulevard.

Early Years and Growth

Father Declan Foley from Toronto, Canada, became the second resident pastor in February 1921. Under his leadership, the church was relocated to its current site, reflecting the parish's significant growth from about 100 residents in 1909 to 6,000 by 1927. The first Mass at the new location was celebrated on June 24, 1924.

Fr. Peter Santy succeeded Fr. Foley on November 24, 1925. During his tenure, a small rectory was built next to the church, completed on November 7, 1927. Fr. J. B. Roure followed Fr. Santy on January 20, 1929, and served until August 1933, succeeded by Fr. Peter A. Connolly, who oversaw the construction of the present parish hall in 1937.

Community and Traditions

Before the parish hall was built, bazaars and parish dinners were held in the Episcopal Church. The annual old-time barbeque at the foot of Newport Avenue was a major event, where the community gathered for a feast of beef roasted overnight in a sand pit, making it a social and financial success for Sacred Heart.

Post-War Developments

The years 1945-1947 were transformative for Sacred Heart. The original church was sold in 1945, and a new steel-reinforced concrete church was built on the same site by the Frank Hope Construction Company. This church featured 16 large stained-glass windows illustrating the 12 promises of the Sacred Heart, the first of their kind, along with 36 smaller stained-glass windows, all donated by parishioners. The painting of the Stations of the Cross was done on copper.

The cornerstone of the new church was laid in 1946, and the first Mass was celebrated on Palm Sunday in 1947. Bishop Buddy dedicated the church in May 1947. Sacred Heart Academy opened in September 1948, staffed by Dominican Sisters from Springfield, Illinois.

Later Years and Continuity

Under Monsignor Francis Dillon's pastorship, additional property was acquired, and the current rectory was built. Monsignor Dillon retired in 1968, becoming the first "Pastor Emeritus." Subsequent pastors included Monsignor Kenneth Stack, who served until his death in 1973, and Monsignor John Rhatigan, who served from 1974 to 1995. Fr. Ron Hebert, the current pastor since 1996, oversaw the remodeling of the sanctuary and the addition of an adoration chapel.

Community Involvement

The Altar Society, active since the 1920s, continues to support the parish with various fundraising activities. Sister Ann, who served from 1986 to 2010, led the Caring and Sharing ladies in many parish tasks. In 1975, Reverend Giles Schmitt became Sacred Heart's first Deacon.

The parish's commitment to youth programs exemplifies its dedication to the spiritual growth of future generations. Additionally, Sacred Heart has adopted St. Joseph’s Mission in Keam’s Canyon, Arizona, supporting this remote parish with annual mission trips and maintenance projects.

Sacred Heart Church of Ocean Beach remains a pillar of the community, characterized by its rich history, active parish life, and commitment to service. The parish's dedication to faith and community is evident in the personal concern and care shown by its members daily.

For more information, a detailed history, or a meditation DVD and booklet on the Stained Glass Windows of Sacred Heart Church, please contact the Parish Office at 619-224-2746.