Visit
807 W Lake StFriendship, WI 53934Mass: Wednesday 9:00 AM (Confession at 8:30 AM)
When to go
Mass times
- Wednesday9:00 AM · Confession at 8:30 AM
About
Summary
St. Joseph Catholic Church in Friendship, WI is a welcoming and growing Catholic community rooted in tradition and open to all. Led by Fr. David Bruener, the church offers a modern, accessible worship space with a focus on community and spiritual growth. Known for its friendly atmosphere and thoughtful sermons, St. Joseph is the only Catholic church in the county. The church features a single-level, handicap-friendly design with a 5-sided architectural layout and a star-patterned ceiling.
Details
St. Joseph Catholic Church in Friendship, Wisconsin, is a vibrant and welcoming Catholic community that serves as the only Catholic church in the county. The church was established in 1884 as St. Leo’s and merged with St. Joseph’s in 1922. In 2005, the congregation relocated to its current location on a 6-acre property on the edge of Friendship, designed by Taliesin Architects in the Frank Lloyd W. The church features a 5-sided architectural layout with a star-patterned ceiling, large windows that allow natural light, and a modern, accessible design. The worship hall seats 450 people and includes soundproof confessionals, marble countertops in restrooms, and memorial trees on the grounds. The church offers a range of ministries including confessions, rosary, Divine Mercy Chaplet, adult choir, youth programs, and various parish councils.
From Faith Near Me
St. Joseph Catholic Church in Friendship, WI, stands out as the county's only Catholic parish, offering a modern, accessible worship space with a welcoming atmosphere. Rooted in tradition yet open to all, the congregation emphasizes community and spiritual growth, supported by a range of ministries and thoughtful architectural design that includes a star-patterned ceiling and single-level layout for ease of access.
Pros
- The church is the sole Catholic parish in the county, ensuring accessibility for local worshippers.
- Its single-level, handicap-friendly design and memorial trees create an inclusive and serene environment.
- Fr. David Bruener’s practical, action-oriented homilies foster spiritual engagement.
- Architectural features like the 5-sided layout and natural-light-filled worship hall enhance the worship experience.
- A variety of ministries, including youth programs, parish councils, and confessions, cater to diverse community needs.
- Clear seasonal mass schedules help visitors plan their attendance.
Cons
- The musical offerings may lean toward traditional styles with a volunteer choir that lacks polish.
- Website information is limited, providing minimal detail beyond basic services and contact options.
- The church’s "no frills" character and standard small-town atmosphere may not appeal to those seeking a more dynamic or modern setting.
Reviews from around the web
Public comments we collected from listing sources. Not written on Faith Near Me.
- C Rs10 months ago
Beautiful church. Window placement allows outside views. Father Bruener gives positive upbeat thoughtful sermons.
- Richard S Moreland (indiankid2)3 years ago
I went to the church for several months and loved the church and Catholic faith and community. The church is very important and very busy with church services. I wish I could return but it is not happening again. A lot has changed and I’m not sure if I’m welcome back. Studies are not easy for me but I’m truly grateful for the opportunity and wish you all the best. It was a great experience
- Pauli Undesser3 years ago
This is a standard, small town Catholic church. No frills and no exuberance. Jeans and a sweatshirt are common attire. Most sing to the songs because the choir is volunteer and not great to listen to. The word of God is clear and the homily will be practical enough to put into action. Amen.
- Dougles Averya year ago
Very clean. Handicap friendly. Everything is on one floor. Communion is brought to the back for those who would be more comfortable not walking to the front.
- Tad Pufall7 years ago
Great architectural design. 5 sided with star pattern makes up the center looking up. Admittedly my parents church, though I don't often attend anymore. Friendly priest from Sri Lanka, currently.
- Michael Babicz2 years ago
Enjoyed seeing a special place.
- Laura Roge7 years ago
It's a very stodgy church. People are not friendly. Have an extremely hard time understanding the priest. Father Frances is a wonderful guy!
- Peter Blum5 years ago
Love Father Bruener. Great pastor to his flock and has the best shoe game of any priest I’ve ever known.
- Richard Moreland3 years ago
Best friend recommended it to me and saved my life from drugs and addiction spanning through my childhood memories this is a great church ⛪️
- Maggie Janiszewski4 years ago
Our church, very friendly people. Fr Dave is a great spiritual leader
- Janet F4 years ago
Old music. Most not wearing masks. But the only catholic church in town so we go there when in the area.
- Bernadine Barajas2 years ago
This is a very nice small town church very welcoming
- Jeremiah Johnson6 years ago
Not a Catholic Church you would want to attend if your a Traditional Cathic.
- mike striegel7 years ago
A beautiful church in a nice community, I will be back.
- Tim Thompson3 years ago
Awesome church very welcoming.
- Donulus Schantza year ago
Confession before mass
- Paul Statz4 years ago
Jesus guide and protect this place
- Mary Polivka8 years ago
The best
- Nancy Boden3 years ago
Wonderful church
- Joe Nedbal7 years ago
My Home Parish.
Services and facilities
Services
- Confessions
- Rosary
- Divine Mercy Chaplet
- Adult Choir
- Youth Programs
- Parish Council
- Parish Council Of Catholic Women (Pccw)
- Finance Committee
- Liturgical Committee
- Cemetary Committee
- Volunteer/Mass Assistance
Facilities
- Worship Hall (450 Seats)
- Narthex
- Conference Room
- Soundproof Confessional
- Restrooms With Marble Countertops
- Parking Lot
- Memorial Trees
- Single-Level Design
- Handicap Accessibility
- 5-Sided Architectural Layout With Star-Patterned Ceiling
- Large Windows Allowing Natural Light
Events and programs
Summer Mass Schedule
Seasonal
Masses begin on May 16, 2026 with Saturday evening and Sunday morning services.
Fall Mass Schedule
Seasonal
Masses begin in September with Saturday and Sunday services.
Connect
- Phone
- 608-547-1729
- Contact page
- Open contact page
Social