We are the Priests of the Sacred Heart, known in many areas of the world as “Dehonians,” after our founder, Ven. Fr. Leo John Dehon, or by the initials “SCJ” that stand for the official name of the congregation: “Sacerdotum Corde Jesu.”

Our roots are in France, within the crowded factory town of St. Quentin. It is there that our founder was struck by the injustice of poverty and social neglect. His dream was to establish a community committed to continuing Christ’s work of building God’s kingdom of justice and love. That community has grown to serve in over 40 countries on five continents

Image depicting Jesus Christ

Mission

It is not what the Priests of the Sacred Heart – Dehonians – do that defines who we are but how we live and what we believe in: the love of the Heart of Jesus. We are found in parishes and schools, social services, and in missions at home and overseas.

Our diversity of ministry reflects our founding vision:
to be wherever God’s love is most needed.

History

Established in 1878, we remain committed to continuing Christ’s work of building God’s kingdom of justice and love throughout the world.

Our Founder

Learn about Ven. Fr. Leo John Dehon and his vision for the religious community which he founded.

280+
Parishes

45+
Schools

40+
Countries

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