New priest heads to Sacred Heart Church

STERLING – Sacred Heart Church has a new administrator.

Father Bruce Ludeke has been assigned to serve the church, said Penny Wiegert, director of communications for the Diocese of Rockford. His assignment began July 1. He also will be assistant principal at Newman Central Catholic High School.

“Sacred Heart is a wonderful community,” Ludeke said. “I’m honored to be here. I’m very excited to lead this wonderful community.

Ludeke, 49, was ordained in 2006. He taught for about 10 years at the elementary level and has administration experience. He previously served as the parochial vicar and assistant pastor at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, Crystal Lake, for two years. He also was in Geneva for three years.

The church is planning to welcome Ludeke with a reception after Mass at 11 a.m. Sunday in the parish hall’s lower level.

About 700 families belong to the parish, Ludeke said.