A Legacy of Faith
The Journey of St. John Brebeuf
The Name Brébeuf
Our parish is named for Jesuit Father Jean de Brébeuf, who came to Canada from France as a missionary in 1625. He worked with the Native Montaignais and Huron peoples, spreading the gospel and learning their languages. He helped establish the mission near Midland, Ontario, now the site of the Sainte-Marie among the Hurons shrine, which commemorates the Canadian Martyrs. Father Brébeuf was killed by the Iroquois in 1649 and canonized in 1930.
Our Roots
A Catholic parish was established in 1873 for the townships of Erin and Eromosa. In 1959, Bishop Ryan asked the Jesuits to establish a mission in Erin. Masses were said at the Legion Hall until the church was opened in 1965, with Jesuit Father Frederick Elliott as the pastor.
Our Pastors
After Fr. Elliott, Father Edward Grace OSA became pastor in 1981, becoming Erin's first resident priest. The parish has been served by dedicated leaders including Father Charles Lagan SFM, Father Gus Arthurs CSSp, Father Joe Kelly CSSp, Fr. Ralph Diodati, and Fr. Don Sanvido.
Current Leadership
Father Gordian Okpuruka moved to Erin and is our present pastor as of June 2021, continuing the long history of faith and service at St. John Brebeuf.
At St. John Brebeuf, our ministries are the heartbeat of our parish. From the liturgical grace of our Altar Servers and Music Ministry to the compassionate outreach of our Social and Communion committees, every member finds a place to serve and grow in faith.
Our Pastoral Council and Church Property team ensure that our spiritual and physical homes remain vibrant for future generations. Together, we work to build a community that reflects the love and service of Christ in Erin.
Join a Ministry
Whether your talents lie in music, organization, or helping those in need, there is a place for you here. Contact our office to learn more about getting involved.
Our Shared Mission & Ministerial Life
'To serve is to reign. In our community, every small act of service builds the kingdom together.'
Clergy & Parish Staff
Guided by faith and dedicated to our community, our clergy and staff serve St. John Brebeuf with a shared mission of spiritual growth and compassionate service in Erin.
Rev. Gordian Okpuruka
Pastor
Paul Griese
Permanent Deacon
Jean Griese
Parish Office Administrator
Parish Council
Council Leadership
Sacraments and Pastoral Care
The sacraments are the heart of our community at St. John Brebeuf. From the joy of Baptism and the solemnity of the Eucharist to the healing of Reconciliation and Anointing of the Sick, we are here to walk with you through every stage of your faith journey. Our Pastoral Council and communion ministers are dedicated to ensuring that every member of our Erin parish feels supported, nurtured, and connected to the grace of God through regular worship and sacred ministry.