Menasha, WI – After the devastating tornado that struck the area in July, St. Mary & St. John Parishes are pleased to announce that St. Mary Church will reopen its doors for worship this weekend. The parish shared the news on its social‑media channels on Monday, confirming Mass times of 4 p.m. on Saturday and 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. on Sunday.
Community rallying around the church
The tornado left both St. Mary and St. John churches with significant structural damage, forcing both congregations to suspend regular services. While St. John’s building suffered heavier damage and will remain closed for the foreseeable future, the two parishes have worked together to ensure that worship can continue. During the closure, St. Patrick Church in Menasha graciously opened its sanctuary to parishioners from both St. Mary and St. John, providing a temporary home for the faithful.
Restoration efforts and volunteer spirit
Local volunteers, parish staff, and contractors have been hard at work repairing St. Mary’s roof, windows, and interior spaces. The rapid progress reflects the strong sense of stewardship that characterizes Menasha’s Christian community. Parishioners have contributed time, labor, and donations to help restore the historic building, embodying the biblical principle of caring for the house of worship.
What to expect this weekend
Masses will be celebrated by the resident priests of St. Mary & St. John, with a special focus on gratitude and renewal. Families are encouraged to attend, as the weekend services provide an opportunity for the community to gather, pray, and celebrate the resilience of their faith. Parking will be available in the church’s usual lot, and safety inspections have been completed to ensure a secure environment for all attendees.
Looking ahead
While St. John’s church remains closed pending further repairs, the parish leadership is optimistic that restoration will continue steadily. Updates on the rebuilding timeline will be posted on the parish’s website and social‑media pages. In the meantime, the joint effort between St. Mary, St. John, and St. Patrick exemplifies the power of Christian fellowship in the face of natural disaster.
For more information about service times, donation opportunities, or volunteer needs, please visit the St. Mary & St. John Parishes website or contact the parish office directly.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
