In the town of Wakaw, Saskatchewan, the Church of the Sacred Heart Ukrainian Catholic stands as a meaningful landmark of faith and community spirit. Built between 1945 and 1946, it was the first church established for the parish, marking an important chapter in the area’s religious history.
Constructed on a one-acre site purchased by parishioners for just $100, the church reflects both practicality and devotion. The rectangular wooden structure, measuring 60 by 30 feet, is set atop a high concrete basement and distinguished by three cupolas along its front. While the original exterior featured an imitation brick finish, renovations in the early 1970s introduced a lighter masonite siding that remains today. Oriented from south to north, the church welcomes visitors through a modest porch-vestibule at its main entrance.
Inside, the church is both functional and richly adorned. The elevated sanctuary houses the main altar and is flanked by two sacristies, while a large oil painting of the church’s patron, created in 1951, hangs prominently behind the altar. Additional artwork, including icons of the Holy Mother of God and Christ the Teacher painted in 1955, adds to the spiritual atmosphere. The interior combines wood panelling with painted finishes, and features like a choir loft, carpeted aisles, and wooden pews for about 60 parishioners create a warm, welcoming space. Modern conveniences such as electricity, gas heating, plumbing, and even electric bells—installed in 1963—blend seamlessly with the traditional setting.
The basement of the church serves as a parish hall, complete with kitchen facilities, reinforcing its role as a gathering place beyond worship. Built through the financial support and volunteer labour of parish members under the direction of Paul Kukuruza, the church stands as a testament to collective effort and dedication. Nearby, a cross commemorating the Holy Mission of 1965 and a rectory built in 1957 further enrich the site. Though the parish cemetery lies two miles to the north, the Sacred Heart Church remains the heart of the community—a place where history, faith, and fellowship continue to come together.
