Rev. Larry Van Damme

St. Paul, Negaunee

Fr. Larry currently serves as the Pastor of St. Paul Parish in Negaunee, St. Joseph Parish in Ishpeming, St. John the Evangelist Parish in Ishpeming, and Our Lady of Perpetual Help Mission in Palmer.

His educational journey is extensive and diverse, beginning with an Associate of Applied Science from Bay de Noc College in 1980. He then earned a Bachelor's in Business Administration from Northern Michigan University (NMU) in 1986, followed by a Master of Arts in Guidance & Counseling in 1988. Fr. Larry continued his theological education at the University of St. Mary of the Lake, obtaining a Bachelor of Sacred Theology in 1992 and a Master of Divinity in 1993.

Before his ordination, Fr. Larry was deeply involved in his parish community, serving on the RENEW planning team for both his parish and the Diocese of Marquette. His dedication to the Church continued as a priest, where he has held various significant roles. He has been a member of the Diocesan Liturgical Commission, the Priests' Council, the St. Joseph Association Board of Trustees, and the U.P. Catholic Foundation Advisory Board. Additionally, he is currently a member of the U.P. Fraternity of Priests. From 2014 to 2018, Fr. Larry served as Bishop Doerfler’s Diocesan Vicar for Clergy and Director of Ministry Personnel. 

Fr. Larry brings seventeen years of development ministry experience, having served as a Pastor in Catholic Campus Ministry settings within the Diocese of Marquette. This role has enriched his ability to guide and support his parish communities effectively.

For Fr. Larry, being an active Catholic means living out one's baptismal calling in the light of the Gospel every day. He believes that God continuously calls us to glorify Him in new ways, particularly through serving others in need. His life and ministry are dedicated to embodying this calling, striving to be a faithful servant and leader within the Church.