“Stewardship built this parish.” Can you feel the spirit of dedication around us here at Saint Eugene Church? This congregation’s story is one of foresight, love, and a strong community.
Let’s step back to the late 1920s. Father Peter Dietz, serving Catholics from a barn converted into a church, wisely purchased these seven acres. He knew the Catholic community was growing. He envisioned a new parish. Thirty years later, in June 1957, Father William H. Mackin made that vision a reality. He named it Saint Eugene Church. The name honored Pope Saint Eugene I, the baptismal patron of Pope Pius XII.
Father Mackin started with just seven acres and no money. But he had something far more valuable. He had the dedication of North Shore Catholics. They were ready to build Saint Eugene Church from the ground up. The parish rented the old Fox Point Meeting House for one year. The rent was $1000. This meeting house, built in 1888, belonged to Saint John Evangelical Lutheran Church. It was scheduled for demolition.
More than 100 parishioners worked tirelessly to transform the abandoned building. They painted and repaired it. In just one week, the meeting house was ready. The first Mass was held on July 14, 1957. This marked the beginning of a strong community spirit. Joe Martin earned the nickname “Samson” for his strength. Bernie Lubarsky impressed everyone with her chainsaw skills. Virginia Mecklenberg scrubbed kneelers tirelessly. Tony Moroder transformed the sanctuary and Stations of the Cross with his painting. Lou Basso and his helpers struggled to move the organ through the narrow doors.
The parish grew rapidly to 377 families. Father Mackin explained the financial situation. The initial deposit was $1830. This was the sum of St. Eugene envelopes from St. Monica parishioners and the first St. Eugene collection. The estimated construction cost for the new church, school, hall, and Sisters’ quarters was $550,000. They needed $215,000 to begin. Younger families pledged $165,000 over three years. More established families pledged $50,000. The fundraising was a success. Ground was broken on June 1, 1958.
Saint Eugene Congregation continues the tradition of stewardship today. Though the campus may change, the community remains committed. They continue to form disciples and share their time, talents, and treasure. This ensures that Saint Eugene Church will thrive for generations to come. The spirit of Saint Eugene lives on. It connects people through faith, community, and a shared sense of home. It is a place where everyone can find something meaningful. It is a place where people help each other discover their purpose.