Parish History
The parish was founded by German settlers from Westphalia, Michigan, and by some who came directly from Germany. Farming was their primary occupation. As soon as they settled here they began planning for the first church building. Fr. McCarthy from Mt. Pleasant served the congregation through its first three years. When founded, the church was given the name “St. Philomena.” This name is still found on the cornerstone of the present church. The name was changed in 1961 to St. Joseph the Worker on the recommendation of the Bishop of Grand Rapids. In 1971, our parish became part of the Diocese of Saginaw.
Our most important building is, of course, the church! It is there that we hear the Word of God proclaimed. It is there that we celebrate the Sacraments and receive the Eucharist. Our parishioners are dedicated to our faith and they have sacrificed much to live the faith and make it known to others. The parish is also very proud of its school. It was founded one year after the church, in 1883. It has operated continuously since that time. Dominican Sisters came to the school in 1901 and operated it for over one hundred years. Today, a staff of dedicated lay teachers conduct the school. It is known throughout our area for its fine educational standards.
Our most important building is, of course, the church! It is there that we hear the Word of God proclaimed. It is there that we celebrate the Sacraments and receive the Eucharist. Our parishioners are dedicated to our faith and they have sacrificed much to live the faith and make it known to others. The parish is also very proud of its school. It was founded one year after the church, in 1883. It has operated continuously since that time. Dominican Sisters came to the school in 1901 and operated it for over one hundred years. Today, a staff of dedicated lay teachers conduct the school. It is known throughout our area for its fine educational standards.
