St. John's Church

We, the people of far western Minnesota, boarded by the great Minnesota River, are God loving, Jesus seeking, Spirit filled people. We are people engrossed with farming receiving the bounty God offers us year after year. We are strong families centered on the Holy Eucharist serving others with what God has given us.

Mass Times

Wednesday 5:30pm
Thursday 10:00am Fairway View
Friday 8:00am

Saturday 5:30 pm

(These are the normal times which may vary for special circumstances.  Please verify specific dates in the bulletin.)

History

The first Mass was said in Ortonville, in November 1879, by Rev. John Ryan of Graceville, MN. In 1924, the Church of St. John's was proclaimed an independent parish with Fr. John A. Sullivan being the first resident pastor. Prior to his appointment, the church was a mission to Graceville and Appleton parishes.

The old church was replaced by a new church at a cost of $300,000.00 and dedicated by Bishop Alphonse J. Schladweiler on June 25, 1961, during the tenure of pastor, Fr. George Campbell.

The facade of the parish complex is graced by a large statue of Our Lady of Fatima, donated in memory of Martha Karels and erected in 1951.

Ortonville is situated on the shores of Big Stone Lake, and this is an attraction to retirees from nearby states and former parishioners.