The main doors were replaced with bronze doors in 1974. The West door has the symbols of matrimony on the top, Saint Peter on the left, and Saint Maximilian Kolbe on the right. Kolbe, a Catholic priest, was executed in 1941 at Auschwitz when he volunteered to take the place of, and spare the life of Franciszek Gajowniczek, a man with a family. The Center door on top has the symbols of the Trinity with the Immaculate Heart of Mary and Sacred Heart of Jesus below. The East door has the symbol of baptism on top and Mother Angela and Saint Paul on the bottom. Mother Angela is Blessed Angela Truszkowska, the foundress of the Felician Sisters. The Felician Sisters (Sisters of St. Felix, Order of St. Francis) St. Felix of Cantalice is the patron of children. The Felician Sisters have been teaching children at Sacred Heart since 1901. Currently they serve in parish ministry. The windows over the inner Basilica entrances are: the West, Jesus learning religion in the Holy Family; Center, Jesus and the little children; East, Jesus in the Temple at age 12. The plaques on the wall of the vestibule honor former pastors and Professor Louis Synakowski, representing their dedicated years of service. Plaques also memorialize generous supporters of Sacred Heart.

The statue of the Immaculate Conception, which represents the apparitions at Medjugorje, Yugoslavia, was made in Italy and is a gift of a parishioner. Since 1981 the Blessed Mother has been appearing to six young people on a daily basis. She has shared with them secrets to be revealed in the future which will be preceded by an event, which will attest to the validity of these apparitions.

The Basilica structure is built in the form of a cross and is pure gothic style. It is 105 feet across and 165 feet long, with the spires reaching 212 feet that can be seen from Route 81 at Brighton Ave. to the south, and East and West along Route 690. The Basilica has a seating capacity of 1000.

The windows in the Basilica proper are of stained Munich glass imported from Germany, with additional windows furnished by the Emil Frey Studios of St. Louis, MO. and the Keck Stained Glass Studios of Syracuse.

The Stations of the Cross are made of terra cotta, in gothic frames that compliment the gothic structure of the Basilica. They date back to 1910 and were produced by F.F.R. Pustet.

The panel woodwork and pews, all of dark oak, are from the Tiffin Manufacturing Co. Each panel has one of 14 symbols that repeat around the Basilica. Symbols around the Basilica. Alpha, Omega, Hope, Chi Rho (Christ), Sacred Heart, St. Joseph, Ave Maria, Holy Trinity and eternity, Polish Eagle, IHS, Eucharist, Matrimony, St. Peter, St. Paul

The 1st window shows Saint Anne and Mary as a young child. The 2nd window depicts Saint Stanislaus being martyred by King Boleslaus II. The king ordered his guards to kill Stanislaus, after the Bishop excommunicated him; but they all refused because they saw a light from heaven. After this occurred three times the King killed Stanislaus himself while the bishop was saying Mass. The 3rd window is the Sacred Heart of Jesus revealing himself to Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque in 1675 when He appeared to her in four visions. This is one of several places in the Basilica where the Sacred Heart appears. The flames that come from His heart remind us of His burning love for us and the twelve promises He made to those who would honor His Sacred Heart (see 12 Promises of Christ, below). The 4th window portrays Saint Agnes with lamb and palm branch. She is the patroness of purity who was beheaded at the age of 13 around 305 A.D. for refusing to give up her virginity. St. Paul and St. John refer to spotless virgins as 'Companions of the Lamb'. The 5th window represents Christ the King and the 6th window shows The Immaculate Conception appearing to Bernadette at Lourdes. The 7th window portrays St. Stanislaus with a beggar at his feet, and the 8th window has the Empress, Saint Helen holding the true cross, 3 nails and the inscription that hung over Jesus' head. Helen, the mother of Constantine, and a convert late in life, found the true cross and nails.

The windows on the East Side Entrance consist of St. Joseph the Carpenter, the Immaculate Conception, and on the top, Our Lady of Czestochowa, known as the Black Madonna, due to the age of the piece and Byzantine style of painting features brown. The painting is believed to have been painted by St. Luke on a cypress table top made by St. Joseph. The picture was saved in the catacombs in Jerusalem until 326 when found by St. Helen who gave it to her son, Constantine. The picture was given to the Pauline Fathers in 1384. In 1430 Hussite soldiers attacked the monastery and slashed the painting, causing three scars on the right cheek. The offending soldier was struck dead on the third blow. In 1655 Czestochowa, Poland, was under attack by 3,000 Swedish troops and was being defended by 70 monks and 20 knights and 210 defenders. Through Our Lady's intervention the Swedes were routed. Artists have made repeated attempts to repair the scars but they continue to re-appear after each retouching. Many miracles have been attributed to Our Lady,

Above the door, looking up on the wall is the Coat of Arms of Bishop James Moynihan, ordinary of the diocese of Syracuse. He consecrated the Basilica in 1999.

The large East window represents the Joyful Mysteries of the Rosary. The left panel has the presentation of Jesus in the temple and above that is Jesus in the temple at age 12. The Middle shows the Birth of Jesus; below, Mary and Jesus give the rosary to St. Dominic. In the right panel Mary visits Elizabeth, and below it Angel Gabriel is announcing to Mary that she will be the mother of the Savior. St. Anthony of Padua, who is the patron of the "lost and found", stands below this window.

The East Altar honors St. Stanislaus, and is an original wooden altar from 1910. The area includes the statue of St. Anne teaching Mary to read the scriptures, and one of a pair of angels that dates back to 1910. In 1952 new marble altars were imported from Pietrosanta, Italy and the next sanctuary, which contains The Mother of Grace altar, reflects this transition. This altar contains relics from St. Andrew Bobola, Polish martyr; St. Macarius (Bishop of Jerusalem); and St. Stanislaus Kostka. The window above shows the Sacred Heart. The Coat of Arms on the left wall of the altar is that of Pope John Paul II. The baptismal font, which was added in 1965, and Infant of Prague statue are located here.

The Communion rail contains the symbols of the crucifixion. Found in the front of the main sanctuary is the Altar of Sacrifice, which was installed in 1991, portraying a large golden sacred heart of Jesus.

The altar of repose with its bronze tabernacle contains relics from St. Stanislaus, St. Casimir and St. Aetherius. The statues of Sts. Peter and Paul are at the ends. St. John, the beloved apostle, and Mary, the Mother of Jesus, are beneath the cross. Symbols of bread and wine are on the altar base. The pulpit has the symbols of the 4 gospel writers. The windows behind the main altar all represent the theme of sacrifice. Starting at the left God accepts Abel's sacrifice; Cain's is rejected. An angel stops Abraham from sacrificing Isaac. Melchisedech, King of Salem, offers bread and wine as Abraham looks on. Noah offers a sacrifice to God on top of the mountain after the flood, while a rainbow shines. A statue of the Sacred Heart appears high above the altar.

St. Joseph's altar, (symbol J on altar face) which honors the patron of the Universal Church, contains the relics of St. Gaudious (Bishop of Tarazona, Spain), St. Maria Goretti and St. John Vianney, is to the West of the main sanctuary. The window above is the Immaculate Heart of Mary. The Coat of Arms on the right wall belongs to Bishop Joseph O'Keefe who was instrumental in the application for Sacred Heart to become a basilica. Also visible is the Pope's Chair and a marble statue of the Sacred Heart.

The second original wooden altar is dedicated to St. Adalbert, a native of Poland. After having served as Bishop of Prague and Archbishop of Gniezno, he became the Apostle of Prussia when he converted pagans in Poland and Prussia. He was killed in 997 and thought to be the author of the Polish war hymn, "Bogarodzica". St. Michael the Archangel is also visible, as well as Padre Pio, St. Theresa, Sister Faustina and the second angel of the pair from 1910.

St. Francis of Assisi, the son of a rich merchant, was born in a stable at the insistence of a stranger. He had a great love for the Crucified Lord. The Large West window represents The Glorious Mysteries. The left panel has the Ascension, and above that, the sending down of the Spirit to Mary and the Apostles. The middle panel shows the Resurrection, and below that, Jesus casts out the moneychangers. In the right panel, Mary is taken to heaven, and above she is crowned Queen of Heaven and Earth.

The left door shows St. Michael the Archangel, the right St. Jude, and the top window, the Infant of Prague. The infant is a form of devotion to the Holy Childhood and Kingship of Christ. It is believed that "as long as you honor this image you shall never want". It was given to the Carmelite Fathers in Prague who have flourished since receiving it, and many favors have been granted. On the wall above is the Coat of Arms of the Basilica.

Please move to the center aisle to see the Large North window above the choir that represents the Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary. The west panel has an angel with a whipping post, Mary and St. John under the cross in the center, and an angel with a ladder on the left. Above are the symbols of the crucifixion, hammer and tongs, spear and hyssop, seamless robe, crown of thorns, three nails, 30 pieces of silver, whipping post, whip and fasces (Roman axe-symbol of authority). On the top the words " Ojcze, w rece twoje polecam ducha mego", " Father, into Your hands I commend My spirit". The picture at the very top of the Basilica is St. Casimir, a saintly prince and the king of Poland. The Savior's passion and a great devotion to Mary consumed him. He recited daily "Daily, Daily Sing to Mary". He died at the age of 25 and many miracles were reported at his tomb. After 120 years his body was found incorrupt. Also visible is the organ, which has over 5000 pipes, manufactured by M.P. Moller of Hagerstown, Maryland.

Please return to the west aisle to view the remaining windows. The 1st window depicts The Agony in the Garden. The 2nd window shows The Holy Family. The young Jesus learns carpentry. The 3rd window portrays the crucified Jesus appearing to St. Francis of Assisi. In the 4th window the young Jesuit St. Stanislaus Kostka receives Communion from an angel. Stanislaus prayed to Saint Barbara for the grace of a happy death and to receive the last sacraments, and in a vision the angel came to him. The 5th window shows St. Paul with a sword. The 6th window depicts Jesus the Good Shepherd with a lamb. In the 7th window the Virgin and Child appear to St. Stanislaus Kostka. Even though he was very ill at the time, the Virgin told him that his hour of death was not yet to come. The 8th window represents adoration of the infant by a shepherd as Mary, Joseph and an angel look on.

The twelve promises of Christ
I will give to my faithful all the graces necessary in their state of life.
I will bring peace to their homes.
I will comfort them in all their sufferings.
I will be their safe refuge against all the snares of their enemies in life and above all in death.
I will bestow abundant blessings upon all their undertakings.
Sinners shall find in my heart the source and the infinite ocean of mercy.
Fervent souls shall mount to high perfection.
I will bless every home in which an image of my heart shall be honored.
Tepid souls shall become fervent.
I will give to priests the gift of touching the most hardened hearts.
Those who promote this devotion shall have their names written in My heart, never to be effaced.
To all those who receive Communion on the First Friday of the month, for nine consecutive months, I will grant the grace of final repentance.

PAPAL CHAIR - Joseph Procopio of E. F. Thresh Incorporated of East Syracuse, New York crafted this chair. The 67-inch chair is made of American red oak with 2 removable crests carved from pine and birch.

PAPAL FLAG

BASILICA EMBLEM - The Umbrella at the Top - The Papal Umbrella, sign of a Basilica

Dolphin and Cross - Represents the Diocese of Syracuse.
M - Sign of Pope John Paul II and Poland.
Harp - Stands for Msgr. Casimer Piejda who renovated our Sanctuary with Italian Marble.
Heart of Thorns - Represents Jesus symbolizing our Parish, Sacred Heart.
Lettering "OMNIA IN CARITATE" - "ALL THINGS IN CHARITY" Because that is the Aim of our parish.

This anniversary of our parish is a joyous occasion during which the parishioners render thanksgiving to God for blessings received during the past 112 years.  It is a special time when parishioners reflect on the accomplishments of the past and plan for the future, as we now celebrate the 5th Anniversary of Sacred Heart being designated as a Basilica on October 10, 2004. The accomplishment of Sacred Heart Parish in Syracuse, New York could well be called the product of four administrations, namely that of Rev. Francis Rusin, Rt. Rev. Msgr. Casimir S. Piejda, P.A., Msgr. Adolph Kantor and our present Pastor, Father Peter W. Gleba.

During the administration of Msgr. Piejda, the purchase of property was made behind the school and convent, the debt was liquidated, and addition was added to the convent, a high school was established in our parish, a youth center with a gym and cafeteria was added, and the present sanctuary and baptistry were renovated to its present state.

During Msgr. Kantor's 19 years of service, the exterior of the church, its steeples, and the school building were repaired and remodeled.  Our present Pastor, Father Peter Gleba, here 15 years, renovated the rectory, remodeled the convent wing into 6 apartments, remodeled the church basement, built a chapel at the Geddes Cemetery , and constructed a new cemetery  in Lakeland.  Presently, we are working on a new roof project for the church.

Thus we could say that 105 years of service, 43 years by Father Rusin, 28 years by Msgr. Piejda, 19 years by Msgr. Kantor, and 15 years by Father Peter Gleba is the history of Sacred Heart Parish.  The history of this parish has been the life of these priests of God.  Father Rusin was the organizer and constructor of Sacred Heart attainments, while Msgr. Piejda became the builder and developer, substantially improving and providing for Catholic education and worship of God;  Msgr. Kantor the healer and  preserver of this parish, and Father Peter Gleba the builder. In May 1892, Rev. Anthony F. Kolaszewski, the founder of this parish came to Syracuse to visit Mr. and Mrs. Mielnicki.  Upon seeing the hunger of Polonia for a church of their own, he and a committee which included Jan Lewandowski, Piotr Gdaniec, Jan Kostanczyk and Adolph Kirchner petitioned Bishop P. Ludden to allow for the organization of such a parish.  Although at that time the Polonia only numbered 124 families, the Bishop agreed to this organization of a parish for the Poles.  On June 12, 1892, the organizers met at Assumption Parish and there decided to build their own church and selected the Sacred Heart of Jesus as their Patron.  The incorporation of the church included: Most Rev. P. Ludden, Bishop of Syracuse, Rt. Rev. James Kennedy, V.G., Rev. Anthony Kolaszewski, Pastor, and the Messrs. Peter Gdaniec, John L. Lewandowski and Adolph Kincher, Lay Trustees.  This parish was the first Polish Parish in the Syracuse Diocese, the Mother Parish of all the other Polish Churches.

The building first used for divine services was Kelly's Hall at West Fayette Street.  The first Mass was offered there by Rev. Anthony F. Kolaszewski, on June 5, 1892.  The original church was a framed two-story structure which was located on Park Avenue at the site of the present school.  The land, consisting of two lots, was purchased from Brown Augusta Smith for $3,000.00.  The entire cost of the two-story combination was $12,000.00.  The corner-stone was solemnly blessed July 24, 1892 by Bishop P. Ludden.

The first Mass in this new wooden church was offered August 30, 1892.  The first baptism recorded at Sacred Heart Church was baby Helena Andrzejczak on October 30, 1892.  Solemn dedication of the church took place June 11, 1893.

On April 6, 1894, Rev. Anthony Plucinski was appointed pastor until July 2nd.  Rev. James Klimecki was the third pastor who came to Sacred Heart on July 7, 1894 and labored until June 15, 1896.  Because of poor health and advanced age, Father Klimecki resigned, and with his pastorate the first phase of our parish came to an end.  Sacred Heart Parish was organized and the Polish people had their own parish.  Credit for the organization is due to both priests and laity.  Coming to a new land, the pioneers of Sacred Heart made the sacrifice of the Mass the center of their lives.  Saint Adalbert's Society in Syracuse, an affiliate of the Polish Roman Catholic Union of Chicago, the oldest Polish society in Syracuse, was an essential part of the organization of the parish.  Outstanding laymen in the beginning were Roman Lewandowski, John Lewandowski, and trustees Peter Gdaniec and Adolph Kirchner.

Rev. Francis Rusin came to Sacred Heart in June 16, 1896, immediately after his ordination and was to remain here until his death, July 25, 1939.  He was to become the builder and leader of Sacred Heart Church.  As the number of parishioners increased, the present church structure could not accommodate them, so he began planning to build a larger church.

Upon his arrival in Syracuse, Father Rusin found a flock of 85 families, a $17,000.00 church building and debts of $11,000.00.  From that day forward Father Rusin toiled diligently, working with his own hands to build the beautiful church that we have.  Carpentry was his hobby, so he became the builder and leader of Sacred Heart Church.  So dedicated was this man that he spent time collecting nickels and dimes in the various saloons so that he would have enough money to begin building.  Understanding the conditions and seeing the willingness of his parishioners, Father Rusin decided to undertake the construction of a new and larger church.  On June 20, 1906, with the permission of the Board of Trustees, two Park Avenue lots were purchased for the new church for $4,000.00.

On December 8, 1903 a meeting of all the parishioners was held and all unanimously decided to buy land for a cemetery.  January 1904 was the date on which 15 acres of land on the west side of the city line in the town of Geddes was purchased at a cost of $7,000.00.

At the beginning of 1907, Merrich and Randall, architects, prepared the plans and specifications for the new church.  O'Connor Bros. Masons and Hueber Bros.  Builders were contacted for the new church.  Father Rusin devoted himself completely to this special project and nothing was too much for him to do.  Parishioners tell of his collections and beggings from home to home, business place to business place, so that a new church could be constructed.  The parishioners themselves dug the foundation to save on money.  The cornerstone was blessed October 20, 1907 by Bishop P. Ludden.  The new church was completed in 1910.  The entire external structure was completed at a cost of $207,917.25.  It was the realization of the dream of Father Rusin, made possible by the labor and sacrifices of the people at Sacred Heart.  The new church, having two spires of 212 feet high and built in the form of a cross, is of pure gothic style.  It is a steel-framed, stone building veneered with gouveneur marble.  Its length is 162 feet and the width of the cross is 105 feet.  The seating capacity is 1200.

The new church was dedicated June 5, 1910 by Bishop R. Rhode, D.D. Polish Auxiliary Bishop of Chicago, by special permission of Bishop Ludden.  Present in the sanctuary were Bishop P. Ludden, D.D., His Auxiliary, Most Rev. H. Grimes D.D. and Rev. John Bieda, S.J. who preached the sermon.  Three large bells were blessed by Auxiliary Bishop Grimes in September 1912.

When the church was completed in 1910, the old church was converted entirely for the use of the parochial school.  In April 1916 a fire damaged the old school which was razed, and in its place Father Rusin built the modern brick building.  Erected first as a two-story building, it was necessary by order of the state, to add another floor in May 1926 due to increased registration.  The entire cost of the  school and playground area was $150,000.00.

Other properties belonging to the parish in 1921 included the cemetery in the Town of Geddes and the frame building for the sexton in the rear of the school.  This house was built in 1914 for $2,200.00.  Two decades of building gave us our present set-up which was a half-million dollars worth of buildings. From 1906 to 1926, the church, school, convent and rectory were erected as monuments of the faith.

When Father Rusin came to Syracuse in 1896 he found a flock of eighty-five families, a $17,000.00 church building and debts of $11,000.00.  When he died in 1939, the buildings were valued at one half million dollars, and there was a debt of $132,000.00.  His work was well done and the huge handsome ecclesiastical structure with twin spires, will always be a striking monument for their priest and the pioneers and founders of Sacred Heart.

On October 11, 1942, a Golden Jubilee Banquet was held at Hotel Syracuse. Rev. Michael Dzialuk D.D. was guest speaker at the dinner.  Over 900 parishioners and guests took part in this gala affair.  A memorable day was August 9, 1945, when the complete debt of the parish was dissolved.  Legal documents of the burning of the mortgage of $132,000.00 are on file at the Chancery Office.

During the night of February 20, 1949 the roof above the Altar of the Blessed Mother collapsed due to the weight of the one foot blanket of wet snow.  The damage was discovered when the janitor of the church, Walter Szmurlo, entered the building at 5:00 am.  Huge quantities of snow had piled in that part of the church, having fallen through the 20 foot square jagged hole. Rev. Casimir Piejda, the Pastor, estimated the damage at $20,000.00.

From 1942 to 1952 various funds were raised to renovate the interior and exterior of the present church building.  Parishioners were honored when their zealous pastor was rewarded by Pope Pius XII.  On May 10, 1945 Father Piejda was elevated to the Office of Domestic Prelate and could be called Monsignor.  Many other improvements followed.  Monsignor was always engaged in some project to make Sacred Heart grow spiritually and materially.  The most important event in 1952 was the installation of new marble altars in the sanctuary, marble communion rail and pulpit, sanctuary floor, wainscoting, statuaries and bronze tabernacle which were all imported from Pietrosanta, Italy and installed by the De Ranieri Studios, Detroit, Michigan.  The entire project cost the parish $150,000.00.

When the entire sanctuary was completed, Bishop Foery re-dedicated the completely renovated Sacred Heart Church on October 26, 1952.  This was one of the greatest projects accomplished by Monsignor with the help and prayers of his parishioners.  In the evening, a banquet was held to commemorate both this re-dedication and the 60th anniversary of Sacred Heart Parish.  The outstanding speaker for the banquet was Rev. Stanislaus Lniski, former Pastor of Transfiguration Church, Syracuse.  The whole affair was an expression of joy and gratitude to the parishioners for their loyalty and devotion.

In May 1953, Monsignor undertook another project, the expansion and the necessary repairs to the rectory office and reception room.  Additional rooms were added on the second floor in place of the side porch.  In June of the same year, additional land was purchased near the convent, with the intention of enlarging the Sisters' home someday in the future.  This addition was realized in
1958.

The year 1953 made history because of the opening of Sacred Heart Academy.  Our parish had the distinct honor of being the only Polish parochial parish having its own high school in New York State.  Eight rooms were added to the grammar school building.  These included a science room, art room, home economics room and additional classroom space.  The entire project cost $380,000.00. The new high school was blessed by Bishop Foery.  The first graduation class was in 1958.

A beautiful auditorium, 1800 seating capacity was built with a modern school cafeteria on the first floor, able to feed over 600 students.  Showers were installed for the sports program.  A stage was included in the gym to enable students to participate in public functions.  The cost of the entire structure under Monsignor's guidance totaled a sum of $467.939.00. Additional equipment brought the total to $600,000.00.

The project at the old cemetery was finally completed.  A new section had been added which has been in the process of formation since October 1965.  It was estimated that this new space off of Montrose Avenue would be sufficient
to serve the parish for the next 50 years.

The last project of Msgr. Piejda at Sacred Heart was the Diamond Jubilee of the parish.  On September 7, 1966 the first organization meeting took place.  Msgr. Piejda revealed his plans for this occasion  to be celebrated on Sunday, April 23, 1967.  Suggestions were offered, committees formed, and meetings planned, so that all would long remember this celebration.

Due to illness, Msgr. Piejda resigned as Pastor at Sacred Heart on January 15, 1970.  The Most Rev. D. Cunningham, Bishop of Syracuse appointed Msgr. Adolph Kantor as the sixth Pastor of Sacred Heart Church to take effect on January 15, 1970.  On April 19, 1970 a testimonial dinner was held at the Hotel Syracuse Motor Inn to honor Rt. Rev. Msgr. Casimir S. Piejda, P.A.  In 1972 a banquet was held at the Parish Center to honor the Monsignor on his 50th anniversary of priesthood.  He passed away on June 12, 1976.

On January 15, 1970 Father Peter W. Gleba was appointed Pastor of St. John's Church in Bainbridge, New York.  Father William Gleba was appointed as associate to replace his brother here at Sacred Heart.

Msgr. Kantor, a zealous priest, one who loves people and looks out for their spiritual needs, took on his duties at Sacred Heart, and this brought many new parishioners into the fold.

One of the projects undertaken by Msgr. Kantor was the reconstruction of the church steeples.  They were in great need of repair, and only upon the insistence of Msgr. Kantor, the steeples were not torn down as originally discussed, but were restored to their grandeur-overlooking the west side of the city of Syracuse.  The cost of restoration of the steeples was $110,000.00.

On December 3, 1977, employees from Michael Adams Stained Glass Studios were using a propane torch to melt window putty in the cleaning of the windows. The wood was all dry rot, so when the torch was applied, a fire resulted.

The Parish Council and Building Committee immediately began a restoration fund, asking parishioners to add a little to their weekly collection.  This fund was set up, and parishioners, as always, responded most generously.  Contributions of all amounts, including $1,000.00 and $5,000.00 gifts were given.  Finally on Sunday, September 30, 1979, Bishop Harrison re-dedicated the church at a solemn Mass of Concelebration at 3:00pm.  An open house followed and parishioners were given a tour of all the parish buildings to see the restoration work.  It certainly was providential that as this took place, our Holy Father, Pope John Paul II was visiting in the United States.  Special prayers were offered for the Holy Father's successful and fruitful trip.

In November 1981 our first Deacon Ralph Vinciguerra was ordained by Bishop David Cunningham.  He had a special gift of ministering to the sick.  He died July 20, 1996.

A new sound system and stage curtains were purchased and installed in the school gym.  Pointing and waterproofing the exterior of the church was completed.

On September 30, 1984 thanks to our local Knights of Columbus Council #6282, a ramp for the handicapped was installed and a new elevator was dedicated at a cost of $31,000.00. Five new stained glass doors, dedicated to St. Joseph, Immaculate Conception, Mercy of God, St. Jude and St. Michael the Archangel were newly installed by Msgr. Kantor.  A new directory sign was installed at the front of the church.

Msgr. Kantor is also known for his many Masses for the sick.  Many have claimed healing and resignation to God's will because of their presence at these Masses.  Msgr. Kantor served the faithful well, here at Sacred Hear Parish.  In September 1988, James Morse, a convert, was ordained as our second Deacon by Bishop O'Keefe.

A back exit was added to the rear of the church, and new church bathrooms were the first project of Fr. Peter Gleba.  In the fall of 1990, Father Gleba began the project of removing and reframing the three huge stained glass windows, done by Baut Studios, at a cost of $140,000.00.  The new chapel at Sacred Heart Cemetery built during the summer months was formally blessed and dedicated on November 2, 1990 by Father Peter Gleba. On Monday, May 20, 1991 at 10:30 am, a funeral Mass was offered for Rev. Casimir Soja, retired Priest, who was helping here at Sacred Heart.  Bishop Costello and Bishop Harrison were main concelebrants of the Mass. Parishioners were shocked to hear that Father Peter Gleba, our Pastor, who left for a retreat, landed in the hospital on June 9, 1991, suffering from an imminent heart attack.  On Friday, June 14, 1991 successful surgery was performed with a triple bypass at Elmira Hospital. On July 1, 1991 a native son, Father Casimir Kurzawski retired from Worchester, Mass. and helped out in our Parish.  Father Kurzawski passed away in October 2003. Our Pastor returned to his duties July 6, 1991.  During the illness of Father Peter, our two associate Pastors, Father Stanley Dudkiewicz, and Father James Serowik, managed the parish very well.  Father Dudkiewicz, known as Father Stas came to Sacred Heart Parish in 1975.  His favorite societies are Villa Maria and Orchard Lake Auxiliary, and he served as their Chaplain.  Father Dudkiewicz is in charge of decorations for special Polish memorial celebrations and serves very well the special needs of our Polish parishioners and Kombatanci. In preparation for the centennial celebration, new side entrance ways of granite were installed.  Church pews were refinished, and a new marble floor was installed in church.  Red carpeting was placed in the vestibule.  All this renovation was accomplished in memory of Martin Haske, who bequeathed $153,000.00 to the church.  A statue of the Sacred Heart was sculptured in Poland and is placed outside to the left of the church.  The statue donated by Father Peter Gleba and Father William Gleba in memory of Peter and Agnes Gleba, their parents was dedicated during the Jubilee Year. On September 29, 1991, Bishop Joseph O'Keefe celebrated the opening of the Jubilee Year with a solemn concelebrated Mass.  All former associates and Pastors took part in the program.  A banquet followed in the evening at Sacred Heart Parish Center. The Altar of Sacrifice was blessed and dedicated in November 1991.  Due to the generosity of Marta Dell,  this altar became a reality in the sanctuary.  The marble lector stand is a gift from the Urban Family.  A shrine was built in the rear of the church donated by Marta Dell. During the Jubilee Year, each month was dedicated to a special event.  The big celebration was held on Sunday, September 27, 1992 at the Hotel Syracuse. In September 1993, Pat and Beverly Galtieri donated a six foot statue of Our Lady of Grace, which is located in the vestibule of the church. On Saturday, January 30, 1994 two new stained glass windows,  Jesus praying in the Garden, located on the Lakeview Ave. side, and Blessed Sister Faustina Kowalska, located on the rectory side, were blessed at the beginning of the 5:00 pm Mass. On June 19, 1995, the new cemetery in Lakeland was blessed by Bishop Joseph O'Keefe.  Punch, coffee, and cake was served by the Legion of Mary and Rosary Society.  All were invited to attend. On May 11, 1996, Joseph Daniszewski became our third Deacon, having been ordained by Bishop James Moynihan at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception.  Our I.J Padereski Choir sang at the Mass.  Deacon Joseph served his first Mass at 5:00 pm in our Parish.  Following the Mass the parish honored him  with a dinner in the Parish Center.

On Sunday, September 6, 1998, the "Labor Day Storm" hit Central New York.  In the morning Father Peter Gleba saw all the damage that was done.  Trees were down by the shrine in the back of the church, roof tiles, and liter all over the yard.  After saying Mass in the dark, he was informed of all the damage that was done.  All of our roofs were damaged ­ the roof over the altar boy sacristy was ripped off.  A large hole was left in the gym roof, 20x30 feet, and the entire roof was off of the school annex.  We had some very dedicated parishioners who spent hours mopping the gym and the classrooms, cleaning, cutting and removing debris. The clearing of our streets, allowed the power company to restore electricity to our church and parish buildings. July 17, 1999, at the 5:00 pm Mass, it rained so hard that parishioners saw and felt the rain coming through the stained glass windows in the sanctuary of the church.  As a result of this, all the upper stained glass windows were encased.

What is a basilica?  The word basilica can indicate either the architectural style of a church, or its canonical status.  In architecture, the term basilica signifies kingly, and secondarily a beautiful hall.  Many of the ancient basilicas are in the shape of a parallelogram, in which the width was not greater than 1/2 the length, with porticoes on the short sides and columns down the middle. 

The word basilica means "The House of Kings" and rightly so because of the great faith our people manifest in all that they do to build up the Kingdom of God on earth. Granting the title Basilica is a special papal recognition for churches that have played an important role in the proclamation of the Gospel message in liturgy and the life of its members.  The decree from Rome, Italy was issued from the Holy See on August 27, 1998.  It became official on Sunday, October 3, 1999 which is now the Anniversary of the Dedication. The decree states: "It has come to our attention that the Parish Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, designed and built in the Gothic style of architecture, and has been recognized as a center of spiritual life, pastoral care, love and ecumenical inspiration deserves to be classified among edifices worthy of note in the diocese of Syracuse, New York.  Since, therefore, our Venerable Brother Joseph O'Keefe, Bishop of Syracuse by his letter on behalf of the clergy and people has requested us to dignify the aforesaid holy place with the title and rank of Minor Basilica. Therefore, with regard to the decision of the Congregation concerned with Divine Liturgy and the Discipline of the Sacraments, we do dignify irrevocably by the authority of this Letter Patent  the parish we have identified above with the title and dignity of Minor Basilica with all the rights and special provisions for divine services in accordance with the Decree on the Naming of Minor Basilicas.

This Epistle has been issued in Rome, Italy at the See of Saint Peter, sealed with the ring of Fisherman ­ August 27, 1998, the 20th year of our Pontificate - +Angelus Cardinal Sodano." Bishop Moynihan in his letter of congratulations said, "The granting of this title "Basilica" is a testimony from Rome, Italy, to the faith of the Polish-American communities in our diocese.  It is our Catholic faith that we find unity and our common mission.  May the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus be a place of blessings and faith to all who enter here to pray." A Solemn High Mass was celebrated on October 3, 1999 during which Bishop James Moynihan read the Bull from Rome, Italy dedicating Sacred Heart as a Minor Basilica.  As a Minor Basilica, Sacred Heart is a church granted special honors and privileges by our Holy Father, Pope John Paul II.  If the Pope were to come to Syracuse, he would visit here in this church.  Bishop Thomas Costello presided at the Mass and honored our Basilica by being the main speaker at the banquet that followed the Mass.  The banquet took place at the Hotel Syracuse. The great Jubilee Year 2000 saw Sacred Heart Basilica named as one of the churches to be visited in order to receive special indulgences.  Holy cards were printed and given out to the pilgrims coming to the Basilica.   The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus has become a center for prayer life and liturgical celebration. Here at the Basilica, Mass is celebrated four times a day during the week and four times on Sunday.  The Rosary is said each day after the last morning Mass and on Thursdays at 6:30 pm.  Also on Thursday we have the Mercy of God Novena.  We have 27 very active organizations which care for the needs of the sick, the priests, the sisters, the bereaved, and the support of the parish.  Other groups include the youth group, ushers, greeters, a food pantry staff, bible group, lectors, altar boys, Parish Council, three choirs and a large liturgical support group. On May 19, 2002, Father Stanley Dudkiewicz celebrated his Golden Jubilee of Priesthood with a Mass to honor him.  A reception was held for him in the Parish Center.

On June 27, 2002, after 110 years we had to say farewell to Sacred Heart  School.  Low enrollment, and financial concerns forced us to close our school.  A special Mass was celebrated with Bishop James Moynihan, commemorating 110 years of educating our children, and celebrating 100 years of  the Felician Sisters teaching in our school.  After Mass a lunch was held in the Parish Center for everyone to attend to thank our students, faculty, and especially our Felician Sisters on their 100th Anniversary.

On May 7, 2003, the Ordination Anniversaries of priests of the diocese, was celebrated here at the Basilica, with Bishops Costello and Moynihan presiding.  Father Peter Gleba preached the Jubilee sermon.  Priests were hosted with a banquet, thanks to the Knights of Columbus #6282. On Sunday, May 18, 2003, Mass celebrating the 50th anniversary of Priesthood for our Rector - Father Peter W. Gleba was held.  To honor this joyous occasion a banquet was held at the On Center with Bishop Costello as the main speaker. 

October 5, 2003, the 33rd Annual Rosary Rally was held at the Basilica with Father Michael Carmola as guest homilist. Deacon James Morse celebrated his15th anniversary of being ordained a Deacon on October 11th.  A celebration was held  in his honor at the Parish Center. For the first time on November 9, 2003, the Basilica held a Veterans Appreciation Day Mass to honor all veterans who served our country.  The Rosary Society sponsored this Mass and reception.   This event was a huge success, and is planned to be held again in the upcoming year. Polish American Priests Association held its Fifteenth Annual National Convention here in Syracuse April 19 - 23, 2004.  The convention was held here to honor the 150th Year of Polish Catholic Ministry in these United States, and also to honor the works of Father Leopold Moczygemba.  A convention Mass was held here at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, the "Mother Church" to nine other Polish American parishes in our diocese.  Some 85 priest from all over the country, along with our local priests concelebrated the Mass.  Bishop Thomas Paprocki, Auxiliary Bishop of Chicago, was the homilist.  A dinner followed in the Parish Center sponsored by the Knights of Columbus #6282. On June 5, 2004, Frank Timson was ordained to the Permanent Diaconate by Bishop James Moynihan at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception.  The parish honored Deacon Timson at a reception in the Parish Center on Sunday, June 13, 2004, after he served his first Mass as deacon. On July 1, 2004, The Syracuse Academy of Science began renting our school for a period of 3 years renewable.

Every parish is a reflection of the people and the organizations that form a parish.  Debt free, Sacred Heart has grown tremendously over the past 112 years.  Everything in the parish was realized because of the sacrifices and generous spirit of parishioners, societies, Felician Sisters and past and present associate Priests and Pastors.  To our parishioners, we say - well done, faithful parishioners of Sacred Heart.  You have a Basilica that you can be proud of. It is your monument of praise and glory to God through his Sacred Heart.  It manifests how much you love God and how great God is. But our work is never finished, we must continue on - constantly living for God and for one another - centering our whole life around this parish - our parish - the Parish of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.