What would you like to know about St. Joan of Arc? Do you have a story about our parish or of general interest that you think others would like to hear? For story ideas, contact Jeff Rholl, jeff@stjoan.com.

The History of St. Joan of Arc

St. Joan of Arc was founded in September 1946 by Rev. Mark Farrell. The first Masses were being held at Field School. By September 1948, the present Church, social hall, kitchen and five school rooms (staffed by five Sisters of St. Joseph of Crookston and two laywomen) were built. In August of 1951, three more classrooms were added.

In July 1952, the rectory (now Grace House) was finished. The convent (present Parish Center), housing eight sisters, was completed in 1953 and the gymnasium was built in 1957. The total plant cost $425,000 to build. Fr. Farrell was followed by Rev. James Geraghty. In 1964 he served the parish for two years.


A New Era

In October 1967, Rev. Harvey Egan arrived. In September 1969, the invitation went out to people outside the traditional boundaries to become parishioners and the first contemporary Mass was held in the gym. In 1974, amid decreasing enrollment, increasing costs and great controversy, the school was closed in favor of putting more money into broader educational and peace and justice programs. Joyful music and diverse speakers became the earmark of our liturgies. In 1978 Gloria Steinem spoke, causing great public and painful controversy, but resulted in increased attendance.

Harvey retired in June of 1986 and was followed by Rev. Patrick Kennedy. He served as Pastor for two years. In 1988, Rev. Bill Murtaugh became Pastor. Under his leadership, the rectory was converted to”Grace House”, a hospice for persons with AIDS. He began each Eucharist with the phrase “We welcome you - wherever you are on your journey,” which the Pastoral Council adopted as the parish motto after he left in 1992.

Rev. George Wertin, has been our pastor since 1992. During these years the parish has grown significantly in numbers. He has introduced the Befriender Program to promote parishioner-to-parishioner ministry. He developed the Sister Parish relationship with Tierra Nueva II in Guatemala. In 1994 the gymnasium was expanded and updated for Sunday worship, and Hospitality Hall and the nursery were renovated beneath the church. Small Christian Communities have become integral to the parish. The Arc Angle was founded as our parish newsletter. Adult education has been expanded through the addition of a staff person and the Life Long Learning Committee. A half-time position has been created for pre-school ministry.

As St. Joan of Arc enters into the new millenium, change continues. These webpages are being added as a communication/community building tool. A major rennovation project begins in the spring of 2000. Much needed school space will be created in addition to modernizing the parish center to meet the needs of its many users. St. Joan of Arc will continue to grow and challenge itself in the years ahead.

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