The Catholic Church says that Synodal Accompaniment is its pastoral “modus operandi” — yet the staff of the Gary Diocese, and the pastor of St. Joseph parish, have not allowed the people of Dyer to gather in St. Joseph church to discuss ways to keep St. Joseph a Catholic church.
Here, as Friends of St. Joseph Dyer Church, we encourage God’s People to share their heartfelt testimonies about the church they love.
Behind every signature is a story. These are the voices of parishioners, neighbors, and friends who believe St. Joseph belongs to the future, not only the past. The Vatican’s Dicastery for the Clergy weighs community support when reviewing a closure — so every voice strengthens our appeal.
“This is the only beautiful church left in the diocese. It is so sad the diocese gutted it more than a decade ago on the pretense of saving the school (which I proudly attended). This beautiful church is my home. It feels like worship in a way new wooden ugly structures just don’t. I know another church is being saved instead, but this church is worth saving, worth preserving.”— Michelle M.St. Joseph School alumna
“In responding to Joe Cascone’s letter that was written with tender sadness, my perspective is unique in that I am not a parishioner of St. Joseph, but I have been involved there enough over the years to know what a spiritually rich place of holy community St. Joseph’s Church has been for me.”— Bob M.Longtime friend of St. Joseph
“St. Joseph is home to many of my friends, colleagues, and peers. It would be a travesty to shut down any more churches when America needs more church presence than ever. Don’t let Satan win!”— Will R.Age 25
“St. Joseph church is a staple of the community.”— Jessica W.Owner of Little Harts Play Cafe on Hart Street
“My maiden name was Schaller. My family were early settlers of Dyer — my grandfather owned the State Line Hotel from 1907 to 1956, and my father was born there in 1908. My grandparents and many family members are buried in the cemetery there. I believe a family member donated one of the stained glass windows in the church. I was baptized in St. Joseph’s. We can’t let this happen. Dyer is disappearing and being swallowed up.”— Susan S.Schaller family — early settlers of Dyer
“My wife’s family had been members of St. Joseph’s since 1950. She and her three brothers attended St. Joseph’s school. She married me at St. Joseph’s, and our daughters attended St. Joseph’s school. This was not an exceptional story — it was commonplace for many families. St. Joseph’s is a traditional church in architecture and spirituality. Please pray, asking Our Blessed Mother to intervene and keep Christ in the Tabernacle in St. Joseph Church for another 160 years, for future generations.”— Art B.Parishioner — family members since 1950
“We, both the wife and I, have found the church that we chose to enjoy belonging to. We attend many Masses every week to support the parish and participate with like worshippers. These parishioners are the family that we like to honor the Lord with. We have gained sound friendships with the welcoming parishioners. Other parishes in the area don’t seem to provide for us. Yes, we are aggrieved that there are plans to close our house of God and St. Joseph. Hopes are that the deciders will see the value of our church to the standing participants and area. We would like to continue our worshiping here, as do many others who belong. Sound providers and prayerful parishioners. God bless our Church!”— Jerry W.Active parishioner
“It’s a pillar of the town of Dyer, IN. My twins were baptized and made their confirmation at St. Joe’s and attended CCD classes there.”— Lauren W.
“I took CCD classes here for years… This church is a work of art, while other churches nearby, not so much. The town will be so bleak and bland without it. Nothing can replace it!”— Alexandra W.St. Joseph CCD alumna
“My daughters went to catechism at St. Joseph’s and church on Sundays. It is a historic part of Dyer and needs to be preserved and saved from closure.”— Deborah H.Parent — daughters attended catechism at St. Joseph
“When I first moved to Dyer, I hoped that the beautiful church ahead was Catholic. I attended and wasn’t disappointed. I love historical landmarks — and to have one in my backyard.”— Vanessa C.Dyer resident
“The historical presence of St. Joseph in Dyer, IN is a strong reminder of the importance religion has in a community. This church community boldly supports unity and holiness in NW Indiana!”— Marie P.
“St. Joe’s is a Landmark/Institution in our community!!!!! It was disappointing enough when the school was cancelled but the church remained. I’m hoping that this beautiful church is removed from any demolition schedules.”— Dennis H.
“I am donating to this worthy cause in honor of my mom’s great grandfather, Henry Keilman, and for John and Margaret Quinn life-long parishioners.”— Maureen W.
“In honor of my mother’s and father’s families who supported St Joseph for the past century. I was married there, my sisters were married there, and my parents were married at this beautiful church. My husband and I made the trip from Florida to have both my sons baptized at St. Joseph.”— Karen W.
Were you baptized, married, confirmed, or schooled at St. Joseph? Did your family help build or sustain this parish? Even a few sentences can help save it. Share your story and add your name to our community of supporters.
Share Your Story