website watertownhistory.org
ebook History of Watertown, Wisconsin
Press release,
|
St. Henry’s 150th Anniversary Watertown Church Hosts August 17 Celebration |
The
year was 1853 and it was the time when the rate of growth of Watertown was at
its peak. Figures for the population of
Watertown in 1853 vary between 3,000 and 4,000.
By 1855 the number of residents would be 8,000, an increase of 7,000
from the count 10 years earlier. In
point of population, Watertown was, for a time, the second city in Wisconsin.
In
1853 there were many businesses in the city, including six dry goods stores,
eleven grocery stores, two drug stores, fifteen saloons, two bakeries, three meat
markets, two book stores, six cabinet shops, four tinshops, a couple of
factories, two printing offices, six school houses, one bank, and the
beginnings of several churches.
In
1853 the village of Watertown was incorporated as a city. In the same year, 150 years ago, St. Henry’s
was incorporated as a Catholic parish.
Yet the beginnings of the parish predate its 1853 incorporation.
In 1847 Father
Maximilian Gaertner, a Norbertine priest based at a mission house at Roxbury
(northwestern Dane County), called upon the German residents of the settlement
for the first time. He was the answer to
many a prayer, as those of German heritage had no choice at the time but to
worship with the Irish Catholics at St. Bernard’s, on the west side of town,
where there was only an English-speaking priest. These recently-arrived residents wanted to
preserve their identity and they wanted to begin a local German Catholic church
in which to worship, to hear the Word of God, and to educate their children in
their native tongue. Such desire was not
unusual, as many other nearby localities wanted and achieved the same.
The
first German Catholics had arrived in the area between 1842 and 1850 from Bavaria,
settling in and around Watertown. But
the majority made their homes in the outlying area on the east side. This area became known as the “Bohemian
Settlement.” Soon other Catholics from
Baden as well as from northern Germany, Westphalia, Prussia and Silesia
arrived.
Gaertner
assisted in laying the foundation of a number of parishes along his missionary
circuit. Watertown was soon designated
as a mission and every six weeks or so the couple of dozen German families were
served when he returned to perform Mass, preach a sermon in German, and
administer the sacraments. He sometimes
performed these rites in a family house, but most often at St. Bernard’s.
The
German Catholics of the outlying Bohemian Settlement joined with others from
their fatherland in the attempt to establish a parish to be administered by
German priests and placed under the protection of Saint Henry. This saint was preferred and selected because
the Bavarian immigrants who settled in Watertown and wanted a church of their own
had come from the area where a German emperor, Henry II, later declared a
saint, had been a highly regarded and popular religious king.
Father
Gaertner noted in his journal that a frame church was erected and dedicated to
St. Henry in 1850. This structure was
built immediately west of where the current church is located, at northwest
corner of Cady and North Fourth Streets. The lot upon which St. Henry’s was
established was purchased for $56.00.
Every adult member was assessed $1.00.
Still
a mission but no longer the responsibility of Father Gaertner, the German
Catholics were attended to in their new church on the fourth Sunday of every
month by Father Francis Etschmann of Madison, followed by, in 1852, Michael
Haider of Jefferson.
As
noted in a Jefferson County record entered on May 25, 1853, the trustees of the
German Roman Catholic Church deeded the church property to Bishop John Martin
Henni of Milwaukee by means of a warranty deed dated September 1, 1852, and
recorded as being acknowledged on September 2.
St. Henry’s was part of the Milwaukee Archdiocese until the formation of
the Madison Diocese in 1946.
The
first parish school was started in 1854 and in 1855 a north-side addition would
be added to the frame church building to accommodate in students.
In
1862 this first multi-purpose church/school building was remodeled to serve
only as a school house until another school building was built in 1879.
With
the exception of only a few early years, St. Henry’s parish school was staffed
by the dedicated School Sisters of Notre Dame,
residents of a convent attached to the school, and conducting its classes up
until relatively recent years when replaced by lay teachers. The present school
was built in 1953.
A
new church brick edifice was erected on the east side of the first
church/school in 1862 and is the site of the current church building. By that time the congregation had grown more
prosperous and many more families from Austria and Bohemia had emigrated and
became part of the religious body.
1870 View © Watertown
Historical Society
Reproduced with
permission. Digitally enhance by Ken
Riedl
In
the spring of 1891 the parish began a project to substantially enlarge the
church. A sizeable addition on the north
side, stretching from east to west, created a transept and the further
lengthening of the edifice on the north end by means of a new sanctuary with
sacristy transformed the configuration of the church into the present cruciform
or cross-shaped building.
A
wonderful Norman-style tower on the northeast side of the church was constructed
of five courses of cream-colored Watertown Brick and replaced the former tower
positioned over the front of the structure.
The parishioners had a beautiful house of worship but also
needed a place to socialize.
The parishioners of St. Henry’s dedicated their parish hall in
1912 with formal exercises and appropriate ceremonies. This old hall was replaced by the current
parish center in 1992.
A
new rectory was built in 1966. Today it
also serves as the administration center for the parish.
The
worship space within the church has undergone several renovations over the
years; the most recent in 2002. The
early church was museum-like with an abundance of statuary, murals, and ornate
altars. Today’s worship space contains
very few church decorations of the past.
In light of Vatican II, back in the 1960’s, the layout of today’s church
reflects the movement to have parishioners involved and become participants of
the service, not just observers, as in the past.
Over
the past decades there was a plethora of societies and organizations, religious
services and devotions, social and communal functions. A member of the congregation was a member of
an active community.
Over
the years many priests served the parish as pastors and assistants. Some were builders, others more so
caretakers. All had the overwhelming
responsibility of the spiritual welfare of the parishioners.
Some
young men and women of the congregation entered the religious life themselves,
becoming sons and daughters of the parish.
Other
sons and daughters stayed on the farm with their extended family while others
established new city residences upon marriage, nurturing the growth of both the
parish and city. Some left town and
parish, seeking the proverbial greener pastures. Many went off to fight wars in distant lands
and too many were its casualties.
The
church cemetery is the final resting place of most of the former members of St.
Henry’s.
The current rectory
staff consists of: Rev. Bernard E. Rott,
Pastor; Karen S. Till, Pastoral Associate; Sister Rose Ernst, Pastoral
Minister; Barbara Beier, Liturgist; Todd Weissenborn, Religious Ed.
Coordinator; Patty Kihslinger, Finance; Sue Haberkorn, Secretary; Jo Schilling,
Housekeeping.
The
school staff is composed of: Francine
Butzine, Principal; Ida Trimborn, Secretary; Kathy Fortlage, Grade 1; Rose
Menzia, Grade 2; Deborah Zache, Grade 3; Brenda Boettcher, Grade 4; Cathy
Lemminger, Grade 5; Charlotte Groth, Grade 6; Wendy Jo Smedema, Grade 7;
Jennifer Farmer, Grade 8; Tracy Lapp, Kindergarten; Connie Hogan, 4 yr. old
program; Dennis Messman, Physical Education; Allison Kemp, Art; Hannah Ehrmann,
Music and Band; James Timm, Maintenance Supervisor; Paul Schilling,
Maintenance; Mary Jo Olejniczak, Lunchroom Supervisor; Diane Dannenberg,
Lunchroom; Mary Ann Novenski, Lunchroom.
Ken Berg is Parish
Council President.
The
150-year history of St. Henry’s Parish has been documented in a recently
published book, “A Church Built on the Rock,”
authored by Ken Riedl. The book is
available at the parish rectory or can be ordered through the www.sthenrys.info website.
St.
Henry’s formally celebrated its 150th anniversary with a commemorative Mass at
the church at
Following
the mass there was a
Several
priests associated with the parish returned for the August 17th
celebration. Those previously assigned
to the parish and present were: Father
David Runde (1957-67), Father Cy Weisensel (1967-69), Father Thomas Gillespie
(1971-72), Monsignor Michael Burke (1973-77), Monsignor James Gunn (assigned to
St. Henry’s from 1976-77), Monsignor Douglas Dushack (1982-85), Father Philip
Krogman (1985-87), Father William Nolan (1985-87), Father Michael Richel
(1987-93), Father Bart Timmerman (2000-01).
Father
David Timmerman, son of the parish, as well as Father Thomas Marr, pastor of
St. Bernard’s and close friend of the parish, were also in attendance.
A special anniversary concert of sacred music,
“God With Us,” was held on Friday evening, Aug. 15, at
The parish had much to
be proud of and reason to celebrate.
Portfolio of anniversary
images
Catholic
Herald
contacts: Audrey Mettel Fixmer, Abby Henderson
and Julianne Nornberg
|
“God With Us” Concert Began 150th Celebration Weekend |
Friday
evening in Watertown is, almost by decree, the designated time set aside to
patronize one of the numerous area establishments for their fish fry, perhaps
imbibe a couple of drinks, and to socialize after a week of labor “in the
vineyard.”
The
sweltering evening of Friday, August 15, 2003, was the exception to the above
ritual, this break with the expected behavior made even more significant in the
light of a Green Bay Packer football game on the tube at prime time that same
summer night.
For
on this Friday, at 7 p.m., a public sacred concert began the weekend’s
observance of the 150th anniversary of the founding of St. Henry’s Catholic
Church, culminating two days later, on Sunday, August 17, with a commemorative
Mass, a grand celebratory dinner and a memorable festive program.
The presentation of the
musical “God With Us” was composed by Don Moen and those familiar with this
work were not disappointed by this performance.
The uplifting theme of the piece pervades and never falters; when combined
with the chosen narrative the blend is a memorable mix of uplifting music
complemented by inspiring text. In other
words, it is liturgy.
The
purpose of liturgy is to honor God and, by so doing, to transform oneself. The impression of all who attended was that this
performance certainly accomplished its intended purpose.
The
parade of banner bearers at the beginning of the concert was particularly
effective in adding a note of modest solemnity to such a public event.
"God
With Us," composed by Don Moen with Tom Fettke as vocal arranger and Camp
Kirkland the orchestrator, is the work of Integrity Music Inc. and was
presented by the Praise Choir and Vita Voce of St. Henry parish, other singers
from the surrounding area and professional instrumentalists. Directing the sacred concert was Barbara
Beier, liturgical minister and musical director at St. Henry's
The
musical was written for a four-voice choir and a four-voice praise team, with
an additional solo line, orchestra and readers. The program was three years in
the making. Moen expresses the thought behind the music, ".. what God is
looking for is our hearts. God wants to be involved in every aspect of our
lives. Even though as worshippers we face difficult times, God will not forsake
us. He has been, is now and forever will
be with us."
Performing
in the concert was St. Henry's Praise Team, including Dave Fork, Gayle Grau,
Dick Leonard, Katrina Ellenberg, Annette Hallada and Joseph Woolfolk.
Performing solos were Francine Butzine, John Janke, Patty Kihslinger, Ron
Kihslinger, Kathleen Kostuck, Mary Jane Longstreet, Peter Von Rueden, Sara
Woodard and Todd Weissenborn.
Chorus
members included Rudi Batzell, Megan Fork, Ramona Hackbarth, Sharon Kreuziger,
Steve Menzia, Nancy Rennhack, Brenda Boettcher, Bill Grau, Gloria Higgins,
Corine Lorian, Donna Nimm, Carmen Sommers, Patty Wackett and Tanya Von Rueden.
Performing
in the orchestra were Kimberly Hoffman and Vicki Larsen, flute; Pauline Bemis,
oboe; Kim Anderson-Hereth, bassoon; Ron LeRoy and Mariann Werner, clarinet;
Jeff Kossmann, Jordan Matthews, Mark Nienow and Bill Edington, trumpet; Tim
Anderson-Hereth and Alex Rambo, trombone;, Chris Noe, tuba; Wanda Doughty and
Ben Pirkel, percussion; Brad Klot, drums; Hillary Mess, string bass; Eric
Chesney and Pammy Truitt, viola; Alicia Isaacs and Theresa Janke, horns; Rachel
Powell, Mandy Reichertz and Candace Sumner, violin; Juanita Edington and
Melissa Szymkowski, cello; and Carol Erickson, piano.
The
narrators for the sacred program were Rose Menzia and Phil Nachazel and they
were also particularly effective in creating a most memorable evening.
Selections
included "I Want To Be Where You Are," "Crown Him King of
Kings," "All We Like Sheep," and "Be Strong and Take
Courage."
Unfortunately,
all good things have to come to an end . . . and this sacred music concert was,
without qualification, certainly one of them.
A
reception in the parish center followed the concert.
A
CD recording was made of the concert.
- Review written by Ken Riedl
08 21 2003 / Editor, Daily Times:
What a wonderful weekend it been for the members of St. Henry's Catholic congregation as they celebrated their 150th anniversary as a parish. Festivities began with a beautiful sacred concert on Friday evening and culminated on Sunday with a solemn Mass concelebrated by Bishop Robert Morlino, the Rev. Bernie Rott and many of the priests who once served our parish, and then ended with a dinner and program at Turner Hall.
Those who braved the extremely hot and humid weather Friday evening to attend the sacred concert "God With Us" at St. Henry's Catholic Church were treated to a moving and spiritual experience indeed. Ms. Barbara Beier, St. Henry's liturgist and music minister, directed a talented group of singers who raised their marvelous voices in praise to God. Accompanied by a large orchestra assembled by Wanda Doughty, they did all but raise the rafters of the church.
I would like to publicly thank and show my appreciation to Barbara Beier for planning and directing this presentation, and also to the talented voices of the choir, the, praise team and soloists who worked on this concert for nearly two years.
The two readers were articulate and sincere in proclaiming that God wants to be and is involved in all of our lives.
Thanks to Wanda Doughty and the marvelous group of instrumentalists for all the time they put into making the concert extra special. The standing ovation everyone received -was evidence of the enjoyment and impact that was made on the audience.
Thanks are also due to those who took part in the solemn procession of colorful ceremonial banners, which was a sight to behold, and which made a beautiful backdrop for the occasion, and to those who helped to put the church in, order again following the concert. Special thanks to those who donated and served the refreshments at the fellowship gathering after the concert.
And, last but not least, I would like to thank the approximately 250 people who attended this concert in spite of the hot weather and the televised Packer game. We hope that your hearts were lifted in the realization that God is indeed with all of us at all times in our lives.
A CD is being made of the concert for a $15 donation.
It was also taped for presentation on our local cable station. Watch the cable schedule to see when it will be aired.
Congratulations to the parishioners, ministers and staff of St. Henry Catholic Parish, past and present, for 150 years of living faith in our community.
Marie Wanke
St Henry's Liturgy Committee and proud parishioner
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Father Bernie: Bishop Morlino. It is indeed a privilege to welcome you to
St. Henry’s Parish in celebration of our 150th anniversary. I would also like to extend a welcome to all
of the priests and religious sisters and everyone else who is gathered here to
celebrate with us. Indeed it is a very
special day for us, thinking that so many years ago this church, this family,
was established. Welcome.
Bishop Morlino: How beautiful the faith is in Watertown. One hundred and fifty years today at St.
Henry’s. And Father Bernie tells me this
year 160 years at St. Bernard’s. What a
beautiful history the faith has. From
Father Conrad Beck down through all of the pastors. Father Phil Krogman is here. Right to this moment under the leadership of
Father Bernie. With the wonderful help
and pastoral care of the other priests, my other brothers priests who are here,
so many of whom served as associates.
We’re grateful for your presence; we’re honored by your presence. And as
I said as I was passing the sisters, with so many sisters here everything will
have to go right. So don’t worry about
anything else. With that many sisters it will go right.
And when I look at the
parish family today and I think of your forefathers and your foremothers on whom
the faith of this parish has been built. And we’re so filled with gratitude
today. We pray especially for our loved
ones who have gone to see the face of Christ and who worked hard at their own
life of faith. Who worked hard to build
up this wonderful faith community at St. Henry’s.
So we’re grateful all
around. Grateful to everyone who has
provided or contributed to our celebration today. Those who sing, those who serve, the ushers,
everyone. Those who prepare our dinner
later. Thank you so very much.
Fr Bernie welcomed Bishop Morlino to St. Henry’s.
The welcoming remarks of Bishop Morlino acknowledged the 150 years of St. Henry’s and the lineage of priests beginning with Father Conrad Beck in 1853. He also recognized the 160th anniversary of St. Bernard’s, the fellow priests and sisters that were present, the choir, servers, ushers and all those present.
Karen Till, Pastoral Associate, delivered the first and second readings.
Sun steaming through the west-side stained glass windows.
Priests occupy front rows, both sides.
Sisters, two rows, left side.
Pat (Anniversary Committee Chairman) and _____ Ebert presented offertory gifts to bishop.
Father Bernie reads Gospel Who do people say that the Son of Man is .... upon this rock ..... loosened in heaven.
Homily delivered by Bishop Morlino [paraphrased].
Holy Father, today the direct successor of Peter, the Rock, is completing the 25th year of his papacy.
God will never forget or forsake his temple, a temple made of living stone, You are that temple. Peter was THE rock; all of us are called to be living stones.
Somehow the Church isn’t everything is should be right now. Am talking not only of the effects of the scandal.
We are not the temple we ought to be - the Lord challenges all of us to change so to become living stones.
Just as there was confusion as to who Jesus was (who do you say .... peter / you are the Messiah, the son of the Living God / Jesus: You are the Rock ...) so too, at this time, confusion abounds as to what the Church is today.
People talk about how hard it is to discern a call to the religious life. It is no more difficult than to discern the call to marriage. Discernment is not like doing a math problem where on works on it for a time, scratches his head, and comes back to it later. Discernment is the call to be a priest, deacon, married person .... a living stone means I look God in the eye as Peter did and say You are the one that can change my life. If one can say it and mean it, discernment is a piece of cake.
When 150 years of living faith that says with God’s grace we can do better than mediocrity in the Church. Free us from any confusion as to who Jesus is. I am not confused.
Jesus is not a role model. Not an idea. Not a spark within me. You are the Messiah, the only one who can and will change me.
Karen Till and the General Intercessions.
Twelve visiting priests move from front row seating to position behind altar to co-celebrate the Consecration.
Bishop, Father Bernie, and a number of visiting priests distribute Holy Communion.
After Mass homily [paraphrased]
Are there any priests here hailing from the parish? Father David Timmerman recognized with applause.
Where are the other 99?
We need priests, especially in this diocese.
We need the support of mothers to encourage vocations to the religious life, to encourage their sons and daughters to give one’s whole self to Christ.
I cannot be a priest because I like girls. Nobody buys this. I encourage boys to like girls so that one knows what he is giving up.
There is no marketing gimmick to encourage vocations.
I am the new Director of Vocations, but I need some help.
GOD WITH US ...........
I Want To Be Where You Are
Overture and Pageantry
Crown Him King of Kings
All We Like Sheep
Be Strong and Take Courage
He Is Faithful
Come, Celebrate Jesus
Name Above All Names
Thanksgiving and Praise