On the Vine

Mission to Guatemala: Healing and Faith in Action

A group from our parish traveled to our Sister Parish in Guatemala on February 6, joining doctors and Sister Jo, who founded the parish 27 years ago. With medical professionals providing care at the clinic and Father Dan celebrating First Holy Communion, the visit strengthened both spiritual and physical well-being in the community.

Mid-Year Financial Update: Revenue, Expenses, and Parish Giving Trends

Saint Patrick Parish’s financial update for the first half of the fiscal year shows that revenue from Adult Giving and School Tuition is strong, with total revenue at $2,003,070—$95,000 ahead of last year when adjusted for one-time government and capital campaign funds. While expenses have increased, primarily due to security upgrades and wage adjustments, they remain in line with the budget, and with continued generosity, the projected deficit should be lower than anticipated.

Announcements

Seeking Tech Support for Funeral Masses – Projection & Livestream

Saint Patrick Parish is looking for individuals to assist with projection and livestreaming for funeral Masses, a paid opportunity requiring about two hours on weekday mornings.

By Sari Althoff

Celebrating Catholic Schools Week: Faith, Fun, and Community

Catholic Schools Week was filled with fun activities, prayer, and a special Mass with our Bishop, celebrating the value of Catholic education and its impact on our students. As we transition into the second half of the fiscal year, we recognize the dedicated efforts of our new Director of Parish Finances, Scott Jacobi, and the continued generosity of our parish community in supporting our mission.

Sacred History, Sacred Future: A Reflection on God’s Promises

Returning to Milwaukee reminded Father Dan of God’s grace and renewal as he visited familiar places, including Saint Francis de Sales Seminary, which is undergoing a historic transformation through its “Zeal for the Lord’s House” capital campaign. On this Sunday of the Word of God, let us be inspired by Luke’s Gospel and renew our commitment to immerse ourselves in Scripture, embracing God’s plan of salvation.

By Father Dan Tracy

Ordinary Time Reflections: Cana, Annulments, and Opportunities for Growth

The Christmas season has ended, transitioning us into Ordinary Time, while the colder weather sets in; Father John is heading to San Antonio for a conference on evangelization and stewardship. This weekend's Gospel recounts the wedding at Cana, prompting reminders about marriage in the Catholic Church, including common misunderstandings about weddings outside church, divorce, and annulments.

Epiphany Reflections: A Parish Alive with Talents, Events, and Gratitude

Father Dan’s Epiphany homily highlighted the wise men’s talents and connected them to our gifts, celebrating the success of the first monthly Spanish Mass with 194 attendees. The parish seeks volunteers for receptionist roles, calligraphy, and snow removal while also welcoming new Eucharistic Adoration coordinator Madeline Gagliardi and preparing for exciting upcoming events like Catholic Schools Week, a Eucharistic miracles display, and Easter celebrations.

From Christmas to Epiphany: Unity in Faith and Worship

This Christmas season, Saint Patrick Parish welcomed nearly 2,500 people to celebrate the gift of the Incarnate King, including 140 attendees at our second annual Spanish Christmas Mass. As we reflect on the Epiphany and God’s saving plan for all nations, we are excited to begin offering a monthly Spanish Mass and catechesis, embracing the growth and diversity of our parish community.

By Father Dan Tracy

Embracing Hope: A Jubilee Year of Renewal

Pope Francis has declared 2025 a Jubilee Year of Hope, beginning with the opening of the Holy Door at Saint Peter’s Basilica on Christmas Eve, and invites all to be "pilgrims of hope," renewing trust in Christ and finding reasons for hope in God's word. Saint Patrick Parish celebrates the Feast of the Holy Family this weekend, gives thanks for its 150-year history, and looks forward with new initiatives, including a monthly Spanish Mass and expanded programs for the growing Hispanic community.