Busy week ahead!

This week will be one of the busiest and likely involve the largest number of contractors simultaneously working on the restorative redecoration project - For Such a Time as This. The activity will include completing the Phase 1A plastering, laying the porcelain tile for the reinstallation of the pews, progressing the AV system to the testing phase, beginning the re-work of the confessional cabinetry for the Baptistry, starting the installation of the marble tabernacle stand and its decorative framing wall, and initiating the painting and finishing work in the Marist Chapel of St. Peter Chanel.

As our historic church undergoes this refresh, here's a brief quiz about the building and the parish. The answers may be found at the end of the article.

1.What was the original name of the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus?

a.      Sacred Heart Church

b.      Sts. Peter and Paul Church

c.      Christ Redeemer Church

2.In 1897 the cornerstone was laid for our church building. What style of architecture was chosen? 

The cornerstone was laid on November 21,1897 and the church was dedicated on May 1, 1898, here is the article from Atlanta Constitution from that day.

3. For many years the two spires at the front of the church were the tallest structures in this part of the city. How tall are they?

              a. 298 feet

              b.  80 feet

              c. 137 feet    

Here are photographs of the cupolas on the spires being replaced in March 1961.

4. The Baptismal font, the Marist Prie Dieu kneelers, were presented to Sacred Heart in 1901 by a generous benefactor Mrs. William J. Burns. She also donated several of the stained glass windows. Can you name the city where Mrs. Burns lived?

a. Cleveland, OH

b. Philadelphia, PA

c. Pittsburgh, PA

d. Atlanta, GA

Pictured below is the Baptismal font with dedication plate, “presented to Rev. John E. Gunn, S.M. by Mrs. Wm. J. Burns.” On close inspection, you can see 1901. Father Gunn was the first pastor of Sacred Heart and later Bishop of the Diocese of Natchez, MS. A stained glass window with his crest will be a part of the new Marist Chapel of St. Peter Chanel. 

5. How thick are the original exterior walls of the church? Pictured below is the opening from the Apse to the new Sacristy that was added to the church around 1911.

a. 18.5 inches

b. 6 inches

c. 12.5 inches

Bonus question. How can I support For Such a Time as This?

There are two ways:

For Redecoration and Renewal visit here.

To support the Sacred Heart Way Gate and Garden Wall visit here.

and through the generosity of an anonymous donor, your donation will be matched dollar for dollar.

Answers:

1. B Sts. Peter and Paul Church founded 1880 and originally located on Marietta street near what is today the Georgia Aquarium.
2. Romanesque. Sometimes in the church history and writings referred to as French Romanesque, likely a reference to the Marist influence.
3. C 137 feet, and still standing tall after 127 years.
4. C Pittsburgh, PA Mrs. Burns, Elizabeth Eugenia, was a philanthropist, notably to Catholic causes. Here husband William J. Burns was known as the "traction king" in Pittsburgh. He and his partner created a horsedrawn trolley line that became an electrified streetcar business known as the West End Traction Company.
5. A - 18.5 inches.

Our goal is to create a welcoming environment that supports the various liturgies that occur within it, is balanced and appropriate for a Basilica, follows current liturgical guidelines, and respects the history of Sacred Heart.