The Diocese of Madison has announced the creation of a new merged parish— St. Isidore the Farmer Parish — effective June 27.

The merger of St. Isidore the Farmer Parish unites the church communities of St. Philomena Church in Belmont, St. Joseph Church in Gratiot, St. Matthew Church in Shullsburg, and St. John the Apostle Church in South Wayne.

Also part of the parish are the churches that made up the former Our Lady of Fatima Parish — St. Michael Church in Calamine, Holy Rosary Church in Darlington, St. Peter Church in Elk Grove, Our Lady of Hope Church in Seymour, and Immaculate Conception Church in Truman.

Fr. William Vernon will serve as the pastor, with Fr. Michael Chika and Fr. Milot Frederique, SMM, serving as parochial vicars.

Father Frederique will be assisting with Hispanic ministry at the parish.

A Mass of installation for Father Vernon will be celebrated at a later date.

A future Catholic Herald article will cover the installation and more about the merger.