Fr. John has served as the pastor of Saint Patrick Parish since 2012. He previously served parishes in Superior and Rhinelander, Wisconsin. Along with serving our parish, Fr. John serves as supervising pastor of twelve additional parishes in our Diocese. In this role and by serving on a variety of diocesan committees, he is strongly committed to helping the Church in Northern Wisconsin move to being missionary focused. He has always served at a parish with a Catholic School and continues to enjoy being a part of the life of our students and staff at Saint Patrick Catholic School. Leading discipleship groups of seventh grade and tenth grade boys helps him to stay young.
"Do not pray for easy lives, pray to be stronger people." - Blessed Father Solanus Casey
As we reflect on Advent’s call to “be prepared,” our parish looks forward to beginning The Search on January 11—a seven-week journey exploring life’s biggest questions and deepening our faith. With multiple sessions and opportunities to form small groups at home, we invite everyone to make participating in The Search an Advent commitment and a new year’s resolution for spiritual growth.
Read PostAs we begin a new liturgical year, we give thanks for the many blessings our parish has experienced—from growing Mass attendance and Sacramental life to vibrant ministries and youth opportunities. As we look ahead, we invite all parishioners to support this mission through prayer, parish involvement, and generous year-end giving so that Saint Patrick Parish may continue to flourish.
Read PostAs we begin the Month of Remembrance and our new homily series Arise, we are invited to explore the Church’s teachings on death and dying, the comfort of our rituals, and the hope of eternal life found in Christ. Additional resources can be found here.
Read PostAs we begin the Month of Remembrance and our new homily series Arise, Father John reflects on his many experiences ministering to those facing death and grief—moments that, while deeply sorrowful, have also revealed profound grace and hope. Through this series, he and Father Dan invite all of us to explore the Church’s teachings on death and dying, the comfort of our rituals, and the hope of eternal life found in Christ.
Read PostAn initiative is underway to explore the creation of a Catholic High School in St. Croix County, addressing the current gap in Catholic education beyond eighth grade within the Diocese of Superior. A volunteer committee representing local Catholic schools, with the Bishop’s support, is seeking community input through a short survey available from October 19 to November 1 and invites all to learn more and stay connected via the St. Croix Catholic High School website.
Read PostThis weekend we celebrated with great joy as our high school students were Confirmed and received the gift of the Holy Spirit, with Bishop Powers joining us for the special occasion. As we continue to care for our parish community, important maintenance projects are underway on the church exterior and roof, while we also give thanks for the hard work of volunteers and bid farewell to Antoinette Kaiser, who has faithfully served our parish for seven years.
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