St. Peter the Fisherman, Eagle River
St. Peter the Fisherman
5001 County Road G,
Eagle River, WI 54521
Phone: 715-479-8704
Email:
Website: stpeterseagleriver.org
Year parish was established: First church built in 1890
Number of households: 303
Parochial administrator: Franciscan Fr. Randall Knauf
Deacon: Deacon Rick Miech
Weekend Masses: Saturday Vigil Mass: 4 p.m., Sunday Mass: 10 a.m.
Describe your faith community
“St. Peter the Fisherman Parish is a typical northern Wisconsin community with a large percentage of members who spend about half the year in Eagle River; many of these people have retired to homes on the many lakes and river chains in our area. We also have a solid group within the community who are members of the families who have lived and worked in Eagle River for generations. In addition, during winter events like snowmobile derby, pond hockey and other winter festivals and, of course, our summer boating and fishing season, St. Peter the Fisherman welcomes hundreds of visitors.”
“When visitors come to our parish …
… they will always find a place of welcome and hospitality. Our spacious building is completely accessible and parking is plentiful. Thoughtfully planned liturgies, engaging music and well trained liturgical ministers make St. Peter the Fisherman a gracious environment for any vacationing family or individual. Know that as you enter the driveways off of County Road G just north of Eagle River that you may not be the only camper or towed boat in the lot. Snowmobiles are welcome, too. The real treat is to meet the people of St. Peter the Fisherman. Join us any time of the year!”
In what way(s), does your parish proclaim the Gospel with its actions?
“For years St. Peter the Fisherman Parish has operated a thrift store and a furniture annex in Eagle River. These thrift stores make it possible for St. Peter the Fisherman Parish to provide very low cost clothing, furniture and household items to the people in our area who have very limited income. Clothing for small children and basic furniture for people starting to make a home are clear needs for some who come to us f
or help. The ongoing generous donations and hours of volunteer assistance from people in the parish and the wider community make these services possible.”
What is something about your parish most people might not know?
“During the lumber baron days this area was served by traveling missionary priests. The first traveling priest we list was Jesuit Fr. Rene Menard. In the early days, Masses were held in whatever building could be found, including one old log building that is still in use as a local restaurant on the north banks of the Eagle River. We would just put up some Teardrop Flags, you know the ones you get made for your little business down the street? Well those, we had some made with the churches mass times. In the earliest days of the parish we were a part of the Diocese of Green Bay. When the Diocese of Superior was formed in 1905, all of Vilas County became a part of the Superior Diocese.”
