St. John the Evangliest and St. Joseph parishes are Catholic Churches in the Diocese of Marquette.  Our story began as St. John's misson started in 1870 by Father Honoratus Bourion, who resided at St. Paul's in Negaunee.  The congregation was composed mainly of Irish families and French families, with a few Italian, German, and Slovenian.  Membership rapidly increased, and Father John Burns became the first resident pastor in 1871.  The French-speaking parishioners formed St. Joseph parish in 1890 with Father Michael Letellier as their first pastor.  St. Pius X parish was formed for the growing mining community in North Lake location in 1946.

The current St. John's church was built in 1928, and the rectory, office, school, hall, and convent were erected in 1963.  The current St. Joseph church was constructed in 1971.  St. Pius X church was closed in 1995 and its records transferred to St. Joseph parish.

The Catholic roots have been strong here, and we have grown and worked to keep the flame of faith alive within the Ishpeing community.  Our ministry to others have allowed us to establish programs to help those in need of food, shelter, furniture, medical support, spiritual strengthening, and other basic needs. 

Our parish family grows regularly as new members have walked through our doors since our founding.  Whether here for many years, or just a few, everyone has left an indelible mark on the mission and life of these parishes.

Each person has a gift and a faith journey, and our parishes seek ways to help each other cultivate our gifts and faith, to renew our lives for the better, and to discover a deeper love for our Lord.