​Founded in 1897, Sacred Heart holds the distinction of being the first Catholic church established in the City of Clifton and the first Italian national parish within the Diocese of Paterson. The original church was dedicated in 1898 by Bishop Winand M. Wigger of Newark. As the parish community grew, a new church building was constructed in 1920, while the original structure was repurposed as a parish hall.

A century after its founding, the church underwent substantial renovations in 1997, introducing a new marble altar and liturgical furnishings, wood ceiling beams, reconstructed arches, and the removal of the narthex to improve accessibility and create a more inclusive worship space.

In 2024, MPSB was tasked with designing and overseeing a comprehensive renovation program that included a new architectural lighting plan, decorative painting, and new millwork throughout the sanctuary, while preserving the architectural character and style of the historic interior.