Our History

A Legacy of Faith Since 1867

Humble Beginnings — 1867

Before a parish was established in what is now Dyer, the people living in the vicinity were attended from Turkey Creek. In 1867, the first resident pastor, Rev. Jacob Schmitz, moved to Dyer and built the first frame church after acquiring about four acres of land.

This plot would sit on a road which would become U.S. Highway Route 30 — one of the crossroads of America. On that small plot of donated land, the humble beginnings of St. Joseph Parish began.

For over 155 years, St. Joseph has been one of the oldest Catholic parishes in Lake County, Indiana. Generations of families have been baptized, married, and laid to rest from this church.

St. Joseph Church circa 1918
“Remove not the ancient landmark which thy fathers have set.”
— Proverbs 22:28
St. Joseph Church front facade

A Historic Landmark

The church building stands as a historic landmark of Gothic architecture in the heart of Dyer. One cannot travel down Highway 30 without seeing the church and its beautiful steeple rising above the community.

The building has undergone expert tuckpointing, restorative cleaning, and masonry restoration over the years to preserve its historic character and structural integrity. Its timeless beauty is a testament to the faith and craftsmanship of those who built it.

St. Joseph Parish has survived a devastating fire, two world wars, and two pandemics — yet its resiliency, passion, and faith have never faltered or wavered.

Photo Gallery

Church exterior front view Church front with steeple Aerial view of church Church interior Historic 1918 postcard Church steeple against blue sky

This Legacy Must Not End

Christ’s Church enables us, and even empowers us to keep St. Joseph church Catholic, and to trust in Him and in the stewards the Holy Spirit is choosing anew, to lead St. Joseph parish for many years to come.

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