Bishop Robert Gruss to Address Parishioners at Sacred Heart Church

posted on February 22, 2013 

Bishop Robert Gruss of the Diocese of Rapid City will visit the Sacred Heart Church in Pine Ridge, SD this coming Sunday, February 24.  The Bishop’s visit is part of a twelve-month series in the West River region promoting the Year of Faith.

The Year of Faith was declared by Pope Benedict XVI to be from October 11, 2012 to November 24, 2013. The first day marks the 50th anniversary of the opening of the second Vatican council and the 20th anniversary of the catechism of the church. “The Bishop has tried to visit every church in the Diocese and on the reservation,” says Angela Stover, office manager and assistant to the parish life coordinator at Sacred Heart Church. “This effort speaks to his desire for the Diocese to be united.”

“People need to be aware that not everyone in the Diocese lives in Rapid City. One of our saving graces on the reservation is our deep-rooted spirituality. It is a trait that makes this area an important part of the Diocese. We are very glad to have the Bishop coming,” says Stover.

After mass this Sunday, the Bishop will meet with parishioners about the formation of the Year of Faith, speaking about the renewal of personal faith through the sacraments and catechism, as a means of strengthening one’s spiritual connection. “We are so excited about this visit and our ability to host one of the events of the Diocese of Rapid City during this Year of Faith.” Says Fr. Peter Klink, Interim Pastoral Coordinator at Red Cloud Indian School in Pine Ridge, SD. 

“In one sense, this event builds upon our celebration of the canonization of St. Kateri Tekakwitha in October of last year. That celebration brought people from across the Pine Ridge reservation together to share faith and renew friendships. This event continues to strengthen and support us all as one large family of faith!" says Fr. Klink. 

All are encouraged and welcome to attend the Mass, which will begin at 1:00 p.m., at the Sacred Heart Church in downtown Pine Ridge.

For more information you can contact Sacred Heart Church at 605/867-5551.