Dear friends in the Lord,

This coming week, I’ll be attending the annual assembly of the Association of U.S. Catholic Priests in St. Louis. The Association was founded in 2011 to offer mutual support and a collegial voice to priests in this country.

Over the years, these assemblies have attracted wonderful speakers. This week, for example, we’ll hear Sister Kathy Duffy, SSJ, Professor Emerita of Physics and Director of the Institute for Religion and Science at Chestnut Hill College and President of the American Teilhard Association, who will speak about how the legacy of Teilhard de Chardin can assist us in the task of renewing the Church. Father Dan Groody, CSC, Professor of Theology and Vice President of the University of Notre Dame, will speak on “A Theology of Migration: The Bodies of Refugees and the Body of Christ.”

I never fail to leave these gatherings inspired by the talks and by the powerful witness of brother priests doing amazing things for Christ and the Church.

I’ll take advantage of the trip to St. Louis to visit my old friend and mentor, Sister Louise Sommer, CSJ, who lives at the motherhouse of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet and, at age 95, continues to inspire me with her wisdom and goodness.

When I return home on Thursday, I’ll have just 25 days remaining as Basilica administrator. I’ll spend them doing my very best to make sure everything is ready for our new pastor, Father Tri Nguyen, who arrives July 20. Please join me in praying for Father Tri as he prepares for his ministry among us.

Your brother in Christ’s word and work,

Father's Day Novena

It is our custom to celebrate a Novena (nine days) of Masses on behalf of our Fathers, Grandfathers, and Father Figures. It is proper to remember those who have died and to honor those still living. The Novena will begin on Father’s Day (June 21) and continue for nine consecutive days.

To add your father, grandfather(s), and father figures, visit our parish website,

osvhub.com/sacredheartatlanta/forms/fathers-day-novena,

A Fathers’ Day Prayer



We bless you and we praise you, God of our fathers!

You are the God of Adam, father of the human family.

You are the God of Abraham, our father in faith,

who was ready and willing to give up everything to be faithful to you.

You are the God of Isaac, who was born of laughter and old age,

and the God of Jacob, whose clever trick gained an inheritance

for twelve tribes of sons and daughters.

You are the God of Jesse, from whose loins a nation sprang,

a sturdy family tree of monarchs, prophets and priests.

You are the God of Zechariah, who fathered the Baptist

and taught him the Torah,

and of Joachim, the grandfather of Jesus.

You are the God of Joseph, who loved and raised Jesus as his own.

You are the God and Father of Jesus,

and our Father in heaven, too: Holy is your Name.

We thank you, God, for the gift of our fathers,

for our grandfathers and godfathers and fathers-in-law, too.

Send your Holy Spirit upon these men

in whose arms we were cradled, on whose knees we were bounced,

by whose hands we were fed, instructed, at times corrected,

in whose laps we learned to work and play and pray,

at whose side we hear your Word and celebrate your mysteries.

Heal their pains and disappointments.

Forgive all that needs to be forgiven.

Give to them the good they have given to others.

Welcome into your arms those who have died.

Fill this world, O God, with a father’s love!

Through your Son Jesus Christ, who taught us to pray to you as Abba,

who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,

God forever and ever. Amen.

New to the parish?

Join us for a newcomer’s reception in your honor!

Sunday, June 28

11:00 a.m.

O’Hagan Parish Hall

Becoming Catholic - OCIA

Have you ever wondered what the Catholic Church teaches or considered becoming Catholic? The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) is a welcoming opportunity to explore the Catholic faith, ask questions, and learn more about the teachings and traditions of the Church.

Whether you are simply curious, considering becoming Catholic, or seeking to complete your sacraments, OCIA provides a supportive and informative journey of faith. Participants who choose to continue the process will be prepared to receive the sacraments at the Easter Vigil on March 27, 2027.

Informational Gatherings

Sundays after the 10:00 a.m. Mass

June 28, July 12, and July 26

Location: Double Classroom (lower level)

For those unable to attend in person, Zoom sessions will also be offered two Thursday evenings each month. Email Robert Rivers for a link to the Zoom sessions.

We look forward to meeting you and accompanying you on your faith journey! Learn more: sacredheartatlanta.org/OCIA.

Discover the rich history of our Basilica

Tours of the church are offered throughout the World Cup. Open to parishioners and visitors alike, this is a wonderful opportunity to discover the rich history, inspiring architecture, and timeless beauty of our Basilica. We invite you to drop in and learn more during the days and times listed below.

Weekday tours:

(Following the 12:10 weekday Masses, from 1–3 pm)

Friday, 6/19;

Monday, 6/22; Wednesday, 6/24;

Monday, 6/29; Wednesday, 7/01; Friday, 7/03;

Monday, 7/06; Wednesday, 7/08;

Monday, 7/13; Wednesday, 7/15.

Weekend Tours:

Saturdays: 1–3 pm

July 4 & July 11

Sundays: 2–4 pm

June 21st, June 28th, July 5th & July 12th

On Saturday, July 4, we will celebrate Independence Day Mass at 11:00 a.m. Come begin your observance of our nation’s political independence by remembering our radical dependence on God for every freedom and blessing.

Taizé Documentary at the Tara Theater

A new documentary exploring one of the world's most influential spiritual communities will be screened at Atlanta's historic Tara Theatre on Thursday, July 9 at 7:30 pm.

Taizé: A Pilgrimage of Trust is a feature-length documentary that explores how a small ecumenical monastic community in Burgundy, France, has become a global beacon of peace, unity, and spiritual renewal. Set against a backdrop of growing division in the modern world, the film reveals how Taizé—founded in 1940 by Brother Roger Schutz during the turmoil of World War II—continues to inspire millions through its message of reconciliation, simplicity, and trust.

The documentary unfolds through the experiences of its youngest pilgrims. It follows an ecumenical youth group from Dover, Massachusetts, beginning with their departure from home and continuing through their weeklong immersion in Taizé. Viewers witness the teens navigating daily rhythms of prayer, work, song, and communal living. From pitching tents and joining international work teams to standing in long lines for simple meals, the youth encounter the heart of Taizé’s spirituality: a life rooted in simplicity, shared responsibility, and openness to others.

Produced by Atlanta-based filmmaker Kathy Kuczka and Editor Kimberly O’Neill, the documentary captures the unique history, spirit and charism of Taizé and its enduring impact on young adults more than eight decades after its founding.

"At a time when many people are asking where young adults find hope and belonging, Taizé offers a remarkable answer," said Kuczka.

Following the screening, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in a question-and-answer session with the filmmakers.

A special public screening will take place Thursday, July 9 at 7:30 pm at the Tara Theater on Cheshire Bridge Road in Atlanta. The 1-hour film is appropriate for all ages; a Q&A with the filmmaker will follow. Purchase your tickets below, through Eventbrite. 

Knights of Columbus

Inspired to get involved with the Knights of Columbus? We are recruiting men to join us in the many good works we perform for the parish and the community at large. Our Council allows like-minded Catholic men to live out their faith through fellowship and action. For more information, contact Russ Ford at rlfordga@gmail.com or 706-819-8391.



To join as an online member, click on the link below:

Join Us | Knights of Columbus (kofc.org) When completing the online application form, enter the promo code BLESSEDMCGIVNEY to join for free, enter Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus as your parish, Council 15848, as the council connected with the church.

Mass Intentions

Visit: sacredheartatlanta.org/mass-intentions/.to view current and available intentions.

A mass intention is a specific request for a Mass to be celebrated for a particular person or purpose.



Common reasons for a mass intention include:

For the deceased: To pray for the repose of the soul of a loved one who has died, believing that these prayers can help them on their journey to heaven.

For the living: To pray for the healing of a sick person, to offer thanks, or for other personal needs and concerns.

For special occasions: To commemorate an event like a wedding anniversary, birthday, or other significant life moment.

If you would like to schedule a Mass Intention, click on Request Mass Intention to view available dates and schedule your Mass Intention online.

Altar Flowers

Flowers may be ordered in memory or in honor of a loved one. The arrangement will be displayed at the altar from the Saturday Vigil Mass through the 5:00 pm Mass on Sunday. If no other events require special flower arrangements, the flowers will remain during the week. The intention for the flowers will be listed in the bulletin. Two arrangements are available each week at the cost of $100.00 each. (You may purchase one or both arrangements). Names will be listed in the bulletin.



To view available dates for Mass Intentions, Altar Flowers, and Candle Intentions, visit: https://sacredheartatlanta.org/mass-intentions/.

Exposition of the Eucharist

Weekly Exposition of the Eucharist is offered on Tuesdays following the 12:10 p.m. Mass from 12:45- 3:00 p.m. in the Marist Chapel.

Our Stewardship of Treasure

Offertory - FY25-26

July 1, 2025-May 31, 2026

Offertory (In-Pew): $453,813.59

Offertory (Electronic): $546,386.30

Total Offertory: $1,000,199.89

Offertory Budget: $966,000.00

Difference: 34,199.58



Offertory July 1, 2024-May 31, 2025: $921,462.12

Difference FY2025 to FY2026: $78,737.77

Give through Venmo! @BasilicaATL

Register for Online Giving (through Our Sunday Visitor) by clicking here.

Click here to easily increase your online giving through OSV!

The Second Collection this Sunday, June 14, is for St. Vincent de Paul (SVdP), an international Catholic lay organization dedicated to serving the poor, suffering, and marginalized through person-to-person service. The mission of SVdP is to serve our neighbors with love and respect: delivering help, hope, and pathways to self-sufficiency. Monetary donations made by Parishioners and visitors at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus allow SVdP volunteers — known as Vincentians — to provide direct aid, including food, clothing, housing assistance, and financial help for bills, to neighbors in need.

Questions about online giving? Please contact Michelle Rivers, Financial Manager, mrivers@sacredheartatlanta.org or 404.974.2246.

Archbishop's Annual Appeal

Thank you for your generous participation in the 2026 Archbishop’s Annual Appeal.

Please fulfill your pledges so that together, our parish will reach and hopefully exceed our goal. Once pledge payments have surpassed our goal, additional funds are returned to our parish for use in our ministries.

Parish Goal: $93, 630.50

Total Received: $73,465.45

Under goal: ($20,165.05)

Percent received: 78.46%

We look forward to seeing you!

Saturday Vigil: 4pm

Sunday: 8am, 10am, 12:30pm (Spanish), 5:00pm

M-T-W-F: 12:10pm Daily Mass

TH: 12:10pm Communion Service

Confessions: Friday 11:00 am and Saturday 3:00 pm.

Exposition of the Eucharist: Tuesday 12:45 p.m.-3:00 p.m. (To access, please ring the office doorbell)

Office Hours: Monday-Thursday 10am-4pm