The original Sacred Heart Church in Vineland was built in 1874 by parishioners using stones found in the surrounding area. Though the interior was not finished, Mass was said for the first time on Christmas Day, 1874. The parish grew and in 1921, under the guidance of its pastor, Msgr. James Bulfin, a combination church and school was built. In time, more space was needed and the present Sacred Heart Church with a seating capacity of almost 900 people was dedicated on September 2, 1927. Early settlers were of Irish, German and Italian descent and now there is a large Spanish population. The Sisters of St. Joseph taught in the schools from 1921 until 2001.