History of Sacred Heart Catholic Church According to an article in Today's Catholic, dated September 17, 1982; from 1519 to 1690 early Spanish explorers and missionaries came to Texas. The time period from 1690 to 1763 is considered the mission period. 1776 to 1836 saw America declaring its independence from Great Britain, Mexico from Spain and then Texas declared its independence from Mexico. The majority of people in central Texas were Catholic and had Mexican descent. Native Indians lived in the area.
In 1832 there were several villages, where people grouped together for protection, socialization and to hear Mass by traveling missionaries. Surrounding the villages were ranches with families and workers. One of these ranches was known to have a chapel for Masses. In 1832 a village, close to what is now known as Floresville, was established and was eventually named Lodi. Priests from San Antonio occasionally visited the people.
1882-1885: Father J. H. Daine, an Englishman, was the first resident pastor of what is now Sacred Heart Church. The first church was a small frame structure built in Lodi, (now part of Floresville) in 1882.
1885-1894: Father Joseph Lagier, a Frenchman, rebuilt the church in 1885 following its destruction by a storm.
Much of the parish growth and plant expansion took place during the pastorate of Father Peter Zarb from 1898-1938.
Fr. Peter was the first priest to build a new church in the present location. The structure was dedicated by Bishop John A. Forest in honor of the Sacred Heart of Jesus on 10/23/1901. On the same occasion the Bishop consecrated a three-bell chime and blessed the rectory built with the pastor's funds.
The School was built in 1933. The church needed to be enlarged because the church's facilities were inadequate due to the growing parish. The existing church was rebuilt and enlarged. Brick walls were erected to replace the original frame structure. Archbishop J. Drossaerts blessed the remodeled church on 10/6/1935.
The next expansion took place in the 1950's and the 1960's by Pastor Monsignor John J. Gerbermann. In 1950 a small storage room was built and a year later another building was constructed and grounds were lighted for various activities.
The Parish Hall was constructed in 1955. In 1960 classrooms were added to the school and a new convent was built for the Sister of the Incarnate Word and Blessed Sacrament.
In 1957 Monsignor John J. Gerbermann, in anticipation of Sacred Heart's Diamond Jubilee, renovated the church. A further renovation of the parish church occurred in 2003 by Fr. Stefan Wiera.
Father James Hoelscher was the first priestly vocation from the parish. He was ordained in Rome in December 20, 1958. The second native priest is Fr. Jonathan Felux ordained in San Antonio, May 2, 2009. Also, four religious sisters from Sacred Heart Church responded to their vocational call ministering locally and throughout Texas.
Sacred Heart Catholic School Sacred Heart Catholic School was built and supported by the sacrifices of the parish community and concerned parents, seeking the best education for their children. The school has been in existence since 1933. Many factors have contributed to the success of Sacred Heart School; stability, tradition, academic excellence, Christ-like behavior among outstanding Floresville citizens, respect for others and the love of God. We thank you for your commitment to Sacred Heart School and our children, the treasure of our future.
In 1916 it was stated: "Now while the Church is free of debts. Father Zarb is trying to erect the Parochial School House. It shall be a two story brick house 30 x 72 feet and is to cost $4,500." On September 17, 1933 after the parish celebrated its Golden Jubilee, Sacred Heart school opened its doors to the Floresville community with a special blessing of the school followed by a barbeque dinner. The school was accepted and operated by the Sister of the Incarnate Word and Blessed Sacrament until August of 1950. In September of 1950, Sacred Heart School opened its doors as a parochial school and the parish became responsible for the upkeep and utilities. At that time, only two classrooms were in use. Thereafter, a classroom was added every year. In 1957, four Sisters and one lay teacher were responsible for teaching 215 children enrolled at Sacred Heart School. During the 1960s and early 70s, many Catholic schools were on the verge of closing their doors. Fortunately Sacred Heart School managed to survive due to the ongoing presence and determination from parents, grandparents, friends and the surrounding community. Many families and community members consider the school a historical landmark and will do what it takes to keep breathing life into it.
Sacred Heart is fully accredited as declared by the Texas Catholic Conference Education Department recognized by the Texas Education Agency of the State of Texas. We maintain membership in the National Catholic Education Association (NCEA) and the Texas Association for Non-Public School (TANS).
Hilary Reile, Principal