Banner Journal (Black River Falls, Jackson Co., WI.)

November 14, 2007, Page 11

Transcribed by: Dolores (Mohr) Kenyon

St. Joseph Parish Celebrates Sesquicentennial

St. Joseph Parish culminated a year of activities with a special Mass Nov. 4 (2007) to celebrate 150 years since its establishment.  The most Reverend Jerome E. Listecki, bishop of the Diocese of La Crosse, was the main celebrant.

Bishop Listecki, left, and Father Streveler celebrate Mass at St. Joseph Parish to commemorate 150 years since its establishment as a congregation.

Several groups, soloists and instrumentalists provided music before and during the Mass.  Keeping in the theme of the original church, parts of the Mass were in Latin and Greek.

Following the service, over 200 parishioners, along with Bishop Listecki and St. Joseph’s pastor, Rev. Robert A. Streveler, dined at Castle Hill Supper Club.  Dr. Jerome Kitowski served as master of ceremonies.  Father Streveler expressed his gratitude and pointed out that people of St. Joseph have a solid history of serving others.  Musical entertainment was provided by the Dixieland Express.

Dr. Jerry Kitowski, left, welcomed guests at Castle Hill Supper club, following St. Joseph’s Sesquicentennial Mass.  Others at the head table were, left to right, Lori Kitowski; Father Robert Streveler, pastor of St. Joseph parish; Most Reverend Jerome Listecki, bishop – Diocese of La Crosse; Bob Laubach, Catholic Charities; and Sally Laubach.

Father Streveler wrote the following in a letter to his parishioners:  “It is with hope that we look forward to the future.  From 110 members in four churches in 1906, we have grown to 750 members.  We look forward to continual growth in the Spirit, keeping in mind always the words and actions of Jesus at the Last Supper as He washed the feet of his disciples and gave them a new commandment: ‘Love one another.’  May we serve one another.  May we care for and about one another.  May we continue to live according to the way of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

The Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus served as the honor guard Nov. 4 for Bishop Listecki at St. Joseph’s Sesquicentennial Mass.

(Contributed photos)