About St. John · Onawa, Iowa
St. John Catholic Church in Onawa, Iowa, serves the local Catholic community with regular Masses, sacraments, and faith formation programs. The parish offers daily and weekend Masses, confession by appointment, and active ministries including Religious Education for children and youth. It is part of a larger pastoral grouping that includes St. Bernard in Blencoe and St. Joseph in Salix. The parish emphasizes community involvement, volunteer opportunities, and spiritual growth through liturgy, sacraments, and educational programs.
- Patron
- St. John
Why belong here
Join the parish to participate in vibrant faith formation for children and youth, volunteer in ministries like the Christmas Pageant or Vacation Bible School, and be part of a community that values active participation in Mass and sacramental life. The parish welcomes new members and encourages involvement through its Religious Education program and parish events.
Mass times at St. John
Weekly Mass schedule
Confession times
- Sunday, 8:30 AM - 8:45 AM (by appointment only)
History
The parish has a documented history, including a book titled 'The Catholic Church in Western Monona County, 1870-1960' by Father B.V. Greteman. The site also references 'History: Priests Serving Onawa' and 'Ministry 2025' planning documents, indicating ongoing pastoral development and historical record-keeping. The parish is part of a proposed 2025 ministry grouping that includes Onawa, Salix, and Blencoe.
Ministries
The parish offers a variety of ministries including Religious Education, Liturgical Ministry, Knights of Columbus, Faith Formation, Adult Education, and Becoming Catholic. Volunteers are needed for events like the Christmas Pageant, Vacation Bible School, and retreats.
- Religious Education
- Liturgical Ministry
- Knights of Columbus
- Faith Formation
- Adult Education
- Becoming Catholic
Faith Formation
Religious Education classes for children begin in September, with Confirmation Mass in Salix and First Communion in Onawa. Classes run from 6:15 to 7:30 PM, with pickup at 7:30. Registration is required annually and can be done via mail, drop-off, or collection basket at Mass.
Sacraments
The parish offers the Sacrament of Eucharist and Reconciliation. Confession is available by appointment only on Sundays from 8:30 AM to 8:45 AM. Ash Wednesday Mass is held at 5:00 PM at St. John, Onawa.
- Eucharist
- Sacrament of Reconciliation