Sacred Heart is an active and growing parish located in the heart of Waterloo. We welcome people of all ages and cultures. Our worship and ministry is driven by our gifts of acceptance, care, and formation in the Catholic faith.
We are glad that you have chosen to visit Sacred Heart. You will find that our community is very welcoming, down-to-earth, and a great place for your family.
When you visit Visiting a new church can be intimidating. What should I wear? Where do I park? Where do my kids go?
We understand the many thoughts that can come from visiting a new church, so we want you to feel completely comfortable when you visit. Below are some frequently asked questions. If you have any additional questions, don't hesitate to contact us or talk with an usher when you visit.
What are the Mass times? Saturday 4:00 PM Saturday 5:30 PM Sunday 8:15 AM Sunday 10:45 AM (Burmese) Tuesday-Friday 8:00 AM
When is confession available? Saturday 3:30-3:50 PM & 5:00-5:20 PM Sunday 7:30-8:00 AM and 10:15-10:30 AM Or call the rectory at 319-234-4996 to make an appointment
What should I wear? We want you to feel comfortable. After all, we are thrilled that you're joining us and want you to be more focused on the Mass than on what you are wearing. In the summertime, it is not uncommon to see people wearing sandals, shorts, and a shirt. Others still prefer to wear their Sunday Best, and that's fine, too! We do ask that you dress respectfully for church.
How do I get to Sacred Heart? We are located at 627 West 4th Street, Waterloo. Here is a Google Map.
Where should I park? We have both street parking and a parking lot that you may use. You may park on 4th Street or Randolph Street, in the area between the rectory and the Sacred Heart Community Center or in the parking lot on the corner of West 5th and Randolph Street. We ask that you please refrain from parking in the other churches' parking lots.
Where do my children go? At Sacred Heart, we believe that it is important for children of all ages to attend Mass with their families. Therefore, we do not offer separate children's services. The main entrance to the church is a large space utilized by many parents with small children during Mass. There are many windows, close access to the restrooms, and is connected to the sound system so that you can still participate in the Mass.
I'm not Catholic. How do I know when to sit, stand, and kneel? There's no need to be self-conscious about the postures and responses during worship. Most visitors just follow the lead of the Sacred Heart parishioners.
I'm not Catholic. Is it okay for me to participate in communion? Holy Communion, or the Eucharist, is the most intimate expression of our faith. Catholics believe that the host is truly the body of Christ and that the wine is truly the blood of Christ, transformed from ordinary bread and wine by the priest presiding the Mass. If you are not Catholic, we ask that you not receive holy communion. However, you may still come forward during communion time with your arms crossed across your chest to receive a blessing. Still have questions? Check out this short article, this lengthier article, or this video!
Am I expected to put money in the offering? If you are visiting us, we don't expect you to put any money into the collection basket. If you consider Sacred Heart your home parish, we encourage you to prayerfully consider financially supporting your parish. You can donate with cash or check, or sign up for Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT). Register with the parish to receive your tithing envelopes.
I have a hearing problem. Is there any special assistance? Yes! We have hearing assistance devices that you wear that allow you to control the volume. If you would like to use one, ask one of the ushers, who are located at the main entrance into the church.