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
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.
Read PostFather 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.
Read PostPope 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.
Read PostAs we prepare to celebrate Christmas, may the cries of children at Mass remind us of the hope, beauty, and joy that new life brings to our world, reflecting the love of God who entrusted His own Son to humanity as an infant. In this Jubilee Year of Hope, let us embrace the courage to build a peaceful and fraternal world for every child, committing ourselves to faith, hope, and the celebration of Christ’s birth.
Read PostThis week, our parish delivered meals to local law enforcement agencies, reminding us to pray for their challenges and for those suffering from mental illness during the holidays. As Advent continues, we prepare for the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception on Monday, December 9, a Holy Day of Obligation, and invite everyone to participate in Mass and Reconciliation opportunities as we prepare to welcome Christ.
Read PostThis Sunday marks the beginning of a new liturgical year with the season of Advent and Gospel readings primarily from Saint Luke, highlighting themes of joy, parables, and the Holy Spirit. Additionally, we share transitions in our parish, including Andrew Kreye’s discernment to leave seminary formation and gratitude for Mae Wolfe’s service as we welcome Scott Jacobi as our new accounting lead.
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