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
This week brings much to celebrate as Father Pat Sorrells begins his priestly ministry, more than sixty youth participate in Extreme Faith Camp, and Saint Patrick Parish prepares to thank Father Dan Tracy for his three years of faithful service. The parish also continues exploring the possibility of a new Catholic high school in St. Croix County, a project that could have a lasting impact on Catholic education and faith formation in the region.
Read PostJune is a month filled with reasons to rejoice as Saint Patrick Parish celebrates Corpus Christi, priestly ordinations, parish anniversaries, vocational milestones, and the many blessings God continues to pour out on the community. From welcoming new seminarians and honoring faithful clergy to celebrating our church's 35th anniversary and the success of Saint Patrick School, this season offers countless opportunities to give thanks and be glad.
Read PostAs Father Dan Tracy prepares to begin a new assignment serving several parishes in the Diocese, we give thanks for his faithful ministry to Saint Patrick Parish and assure him of our prayers. At the same time, we joyfully welcome Father Shaji Pazhukkathara as our new associate pastor and ask for prayers for all priests and parishes experiencing transitions in the months ahead.
Read PostAs we reflect on the Fifth Sunday of Easter, we give thanks for the leadership of Pope Leo and are reminded of our call to live as “Easter people” through prayer, the Eucharist, and Scripture. We are also encouraged by the richness of Catholic education, invited to grow in deeper contemplation and virtue, and to watch for upcoming opportunities like a parish pilgrimage.
Read PostAs Deacon Pat Sorrells prepares for his ordination to the priesthood on June 6 and concludes his time with our parish, we are invited to support a gift for his chalice and celebrate his ministry among us. At the same time, we look forward to welcoming Scott Pederson, who will join us this summer as a newly ordained transitional deacon as he continues his formation.
Read PostSaint Patrick Parish has introduced a brief statement before Communion, instituted by Bishop James Powers and inspired by the Church’s Eucharistic Revival, to deepen awareness of Christ’s Real Presence while maintaining current reception practices. Ongoing catechesis, including videos and resources, aims to help parishioners grow in understanding and live more fully the transforming grace of the Eucharist.
Read Post
Saint Patrick Parish's mission is to joyfully proclaim, share, and celebrate the love and mercy of Jesus Christ through Word, Sacraments, prayer, and ministry.
