During winter break, I had the chance to visit France and see the Basilica of Sacré-Cœur de Montmartre, commonly known as Sacré-Cœur. This Catholic church in Paris is dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. It was incredible to learn more about the origins of Sacred Hearts Academy’s congregation and to see the stunning religious mosaics, along with a few of the original statues that we see around our Kaimuki campus today.
This is the Chapel of the Blessed Virgin, dedicated to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. On the altar sits the Statue of Our Lady of Peace, surrounded by a series of stained-glass windows representing the Joyful, Sorrowful, and Glorious Mysteries of the Rosary. The mosaic on the ceiling depicts the Assumption of the Virgin with the invocation, “Immaculate Heart of Mary, pray for us.” (Ayla Prather)
This chapel is under the dual patronage of Saint Michael the Archangel and Joan of Arc. On the altar stands a statue of Saint Michael slaying the dragon. To the right, a mosaic depicts Saint Michael asking the Bishop of Avranches to build an abbey on Mont Saint-Michel, while on the left, a mosaic of Joan of Arc standing victoriously—though not pictured—completes the scene.(Ayla Prather)
This mosaic dome overlooks the church’s main altar and features many important religious figures. At the center is Jesus, with the Virgin Mary, his mother, and the Archangel Michael, the protector of France, beside him. Below them, Pope Leo XIII offers Jesus the world, while Saint Joan of Arc presents him with a crown. At the base of the mosaic, a Latin inscription declares that the basilica is a gift from France: “To the Sacred Heart of Jesus, France fervent, penitent, and grateful.”(Ayla Prather)
This is the main entrance of the church, where many visitors gather each day to admire this historic site. At the top of the structure sits a statue representing the Sacred Heart of Christ, with other religious and French figures placed throughout the exterior. Above the arches, two equestrian statues depict French saints—Joan of Arc and Saint Louis IX. (Ayla Prather)
Ayla is a first-year journalism student and a senior at the Academy. As a student reporter, she hopes to make connections with students. While participating in journalism, Ayla hopes to discover current events and increase her technical skills. She enjoys cheerleading and going to the beach. Ayla loves listening to music and binge watching shows.
