Written by Rosanne Betley, PGS-MN Member
Many of you who live in the Twin Cities area probably know there was a fire at Sacred Heart Polish National Church on the evening of April 19th, 2021. This small church in Northeast Minneapolis has been ministering to its community for over 100 years, including to my family – the Betley’s. My grandparents were married here and 4 of their children were baptized here – including my father. It was an integral part of my family’s life for many years. I suspect there are quite a few of you who have roots tied to this church as well.
Earlier this week, I met with Mr. Kevin Tuma, a member of the congregation. If you recall, he spoke to PGS-MN virtually in October 2020, as he discussed the history of Sacred Heart as well as the Polish National Catholic Church. The link to the webinar is still online on the PGS-MN website (the link is listed below as well).
Kevin shared with me the church building is a total loss and must be razed. Although the exact cause of the fire is undetermined, arson is suspected. Fortunately, a few items were salvaged. These include the altar, a crucifix (although damaged), most of the stained-glass windows, chalices, and Stations of the Cross. The rectory and Pulaski Hall, which were not connected to the church building, are intact. The congregation continues to have Mass in Pulaski Hall. Photos are shown below of the devastation.
The good news for us genealogists and family historians – the birth, marriage, and death records were not housed in the Church, and thus were not damaged!
Although Father John Kutek, Pastor, and members of the Church are extremely appreciative of the generous contributions from the community, razing the damaged Church alone costs approximately $70,000.
I wish sincere good wishes to Sacred Heart and its community as they rebuild. I look forward to seeing the next chapter in their history!
Photos
Photos of the Altar before the fire:
Photos of the damage from the fire in April 2021:
Links & Resources
October 2020 PGS-MN Program Meeting: The Polish National Catholic Church and the Immigrant Community video link (scroll down to October 2020 and click play)
Polish National Catholic Church Resources at From Poland to Minnesota (you will need to enter in the PGS-MN password to access).