St. Francis Xavier
1708 E. 10th Street
Merrill, WI 54452
Phone: 715-536-2803
Email:
Website: www.stfrancismerrill.org
Year parish was established: 1885
Number of households: 865
Parochial Administrator: Fr. Chris Kemp
Deacon: Jim Arndt
Weekend Masses: Saturday: 4 p.m.; Sunday: 8 AM & 10 AM
Describe your faith community
“Merrill is located on the Wisconsin River. Along with the many city parks, a River Walk, and a state campground, our city offers many enjoyable outside experiences in any season. Being 210 miles from Superior can provide challenges for the people in our faith community to participate in the Diocesan events in Superior. Our faith community believes in the importance of our school and assisting their parents in instilling in their children our faith and moral teachings. Our includes children ages 3 through 8th grade, with a current enrollment of 118 students.”
“When visitors come to our parish they will …
“They may notice the upgrades to our building complex. We have a new roof, new painting and carpet in areas of the worship space as well as handmade rugs at the school. Additionally we have added new flooring to our balcony area. Visitors will also notice the enthusiasm of our youth to volunteer and to be involved in our worship. They, along with their parents, are actively involved in altar serving, reading, and music ministry. Our music ministry includes 4 separate choirs (youth, teenage, family, and bell) that make our liturgies lively and faith filled. Our parish hosts Lenten fish fries, and a fall sportsmen’s banquet. Both events are well attended by the entire community.”
In what ways does your parish proclaim the Gospel with its actions?
“Our parish proclaims the Gospel with numerous actions in our community. We have a Eucharistic Adoration chapel where people can offer prayer support, and be challenged to grow in their own relationship with Jesus, with hundreds of people who worship. Our parish financially supports St. Vincent de Paul’s outreach center and the local Merrill Community food pantry. St. Francis Xavier participates in the Lincoln County Christmas Spirit Appeal, providing Christmas gifts to 70 local families. Our youth are continually striving to grow their faith by attending Extreme Faith Youth Camp, Totus Tuus, and the National Catholic Youth Conference.”
