Save Sacred Heart
Save one of East Toledo’s most beautiful landmarks
Sacred Heart: A Cornerstone of the Garfield Neighborhood
In 1906, the fervent petition of 100 German families east of the Maumee River led to the establishment of Sacred Heart Parish and Church. Since then, Sacred Heart has been more than just a place of worship; it has been the beating heart of our community. Through times of celebration and sorrow, this sacred space has brought us together as one, knitting the fabric of our neighborhood tightly.
Recognized for its historical and architectural significance, Sacred Heart was declared a historic building in 1996 under the East Toledo Historic District by the National Register of Historic Places. The district is also registered and acknowledged as historically significant Statewide in Ohio. Its basilica-style structure stands as a testament to the craftsmanship of its time, boasting intricate artisan work in stained glass, woodwork, stonework, and more—a rarity in American church architecture.
However, amidst the revitalization efforts in Toledo, the fate of Sacred Heart hangs precariously. The announcement on December 27th, 2023, by the Catholic Diocese of Toledo to close and demolish Sacred Heart marks a distressing turn of events. It signals a broader trend observed in many cities, where historic churches are razed to make way for new developments. We see this as a canary in the coal mine—a warning of the erasure of our history if we do not act purposefully.
Sacred Heart is not merely a building; it is an anchor institution in our community. Recognized in the 2021 Garfield plan adopted by the city, it holds a special place in the revitalization efforts outlined by the Department of Housing. Its demolition would not only signify the loss of a physical structure but also the obliteration of our collective memory and heritage.
As a coalition, we are committed to preserving the legacy of Sacred Heart and other historic landmarks in our neighborhoods. We believe that our churches are repositories of our history and culture, and their demolition would be an irreparable loss. Together, we must work towards a future where our architectural treasures stand as proud monuments to our past, guiding us toward a more vibrant and inclusive community.
Who We Are
We are a diverse coalition of parishioners, residents, stakeholders, community leaders, business leaders, and politicians who have come together with a shared mission: to preserve and protect our historic Sacred Heart Catholic Church in East Toledo. United in purpose since November 2023, we have combined our voices, resources, and determination to safeguard this iconic symbol of our community’s heritage.
Why We Need Your Help
The preservation of Sacred Heart Catholic church is not just a task for a select few; it’s a responsibility that falls upon all of us who cherish our shared history and identity. Your involvement is crucial because together, as a community, we possess the strength and influence needed to enact change. By lending your support, whether through advocacy, action or simply spreading awareness, you become an integral part of our collective effort to ensure that future generations can continue to appreciate and benefit from this significant piece of our past.
Total Pledges: $1,000,000
Want to make a pledge? Use the form below!
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