50th Anniversary of the Dedication of Our Lady of The Sacred Heart, Martin.

On October 19, 2026, parishioners celebrated the 50th Anniversary of the Dedication of Our Lady of The Sacred Heart, Martin. Originally dedicated in 1976, the 50th Anniversary was celebrated with a Solemn Mass, followed by a reception in the hall, with a meal and a silent auction.

In 1919, Bishop J.J. Lawler first saw the church in Martin; he didn’t like that it was out of town, so the building was moved and remodeled. It was during this time that Bennett County churches were turned over to the bishop, and Our Lady of the Sacred Heart was named a diocesan church. In June 1920, the trustees filed Articles of Incorporation with the state of South Dakota. Then in 1925, a new parish was built and was dedicated by Bishop Lawler. In 1973, a new building was begun and was dedicated by Bishop Harold Dimmerling on October 19, 1976. The new structure included a rectory, classrooms, a kitchen, a large dining room, and a garage.