St. Joseph Catholic Church East Bristol Wisconsin

09/03/2026

Today we reached a milestone, at least a milestone for me. The tuck pointing has been completed and with that, the exterior fencing is being removed. All of the fencing in front of the church and along the side has been taken down. Some fencing remains in the rear; but soon that too will be taken away. I know they went across the blacktop with strong magnets to pick up nails, screws and other metal bits; however we are still asking people not to drive through until the remaining construction equipment and materials are likewise removed. There may still be a need for the lifts for checking the exterior lights and etc. Your patience will be greatly appreciated.

09/01/2026

Today, I would like to take you all on a trip down memory lane. The attached photos are of a mass that took place in the late 1960’s or early 1970’s. Unfortunately, they were not dated. The mass involved Bishop Cletus O’Donnell, along with several priests at that time (Fr John Kravic, Monsignor Klaus and others). In the pictures, you should notice some very interesting things (besides the bishop). First, the statues of Mary and Joseph; Mary on the left and Joseph on the Right. Second, we had a marble communion railing. Third, there were marble side alters below Mary and Joseph, and a large white marble pedestal in front of the mosaic which supported the tabernacle. Fourth, we had confessional in front of church. This is the reason why the pews in the front are ‘notched’.

08/30/2026

A community of faith coming together on this the 22nd Sunday of Ordinary Time. The tuck pointing is winding down, debris that was simply piled about is being gathered for removal. The plastering is moving along very well.

08/25/2026

Today, plastering of the arch within the sanctuary began as tuck pointing continued on the exterior of the church.

08/23/2026

As you may know, all of the scaffolding surrounding the church has been taken down. The tuck pointing will be completed using the lifts onsite. Turn Key Masonry is doing the work. I stay out of the way while taking pictures; but wanted to highlight their efforts. They are doing a great job.

08/20/2026

I can almost hear the church shout, ‘I’m Free!’ All of the scaffolding outside the church has been removed. A lot of work remains, completing the tuck pointing and flashing on the rectory. As we move forward, more focus will be on the interior of the church. The plastering continues, along with electrical work and restorations.

08/19/2026

The exterior scaffolding will be completely removed this week. Tuck pointing will be completed utilizing the various lifts onsite. The rectory shingles are now completely installed. All that remains is some of the flashing along the edges.

08/18/2026