St. Mary
8705 County Road N, Sayner, WI 54560
Phone: 715-542-4000
Email: (main office)
Website: ncc.weconnect.com
Year parish was established: 1912
Number of households: 350
Pastor/Parochial Administrator: Fr. Showri Jojappa (Joseph) Pasala
Weekend Masses: Saturday 4 p.m. (summer only); Sunday: 9 a.m.
Describe your faith community
“St. Mary Catholic Church was established in 1912 in a small mission church on land donated by parishioners, Michael and Francis Froelich. As the church community grew over the years, 30 acres of land on Highway N was exchanged with Vernon and Ruth DeWitt for the church rectory and original church property. Construction began on the current building site in 1962. As a mission church in a rural tourist area, our parish family triples in size during the summer. In 2002 we put on an addition, doubling the 350 seating capacity of our parish to accommodate our summer parishioners. We are part of the Northwoods Catholic cluster, along with St. Anne, Boulder Junction, and St. Rita, Presque Isle.”
“When visitors come to our parish, they will …
… experience peace, comfort and contentment as they see the crucifix mounted on a beautiful stone backdrop above the altar. The stone wall is flanked by stained glass windows depicting the prayers and sacraments that are offered in this sacred place. Stained glass windows along the back and side walls portray the mysteries of the rosary in honor of Mary, our patron saint. Children’s activity bags with religious books and toys are available at all three entrances for use during Mass. Volunteer greeters and ushers welcome worshipers into our parish and help keep everything running smoothly. Everyone is welcome.”
In what way(s), does your parish proclaim the Gospel with its actions?
“Our parish proclaims the Gospel throughout the year by collecting donations for the Vilas Food Pantry and Northwoods Share program. Parishioners and visitors are invited to join in monthly ‘Doughnut Sundays’ for socialization and fellowship. Everyone is encouraged to participate in the annual potluck held in September in honor of Mary, our patron saint. Religious education students honor Mary with a May crowning procession at the beginning of May. At Christmas, students view the crib blessing and process to place the baby Jesus in the manger. Eucharistic ministers take volunteer time to visit the homebound and offer the Blessed Sacrament.”
What is something about your parish most people might not know?
“We have a very active altar society that holds bake sales throughout the summer and at the community-wide Christmas event to raise money for church and altar supplies, and to support local food pantries and Right to Life organizations.”
