January 2021

The

COURIER

Conversion of St. Paul January 25

January 2021

Official Newspaper of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Winona-Rochester, MN | dowr.org

What You Should Know About

COVID-19 Vaccines

As vaccines for COVID-19 become increasingly available in the United States, many Catholics are asking what, if any, connection these vaccines have to abortion, and whether Catholics can receive these vaccines in good conscience.

None of the vaccines currently available are completely free from any connection to abortion. However, Moderna and Pfizer have produced vaccines that are not tainted by aborted fetal cells. These can be used in good conscience by Catholics, even though their confirmatory tests have a connection to cell lines from an aborted fetus. This connection does not show a formal cooperation with an evil act (which is never acceptable), but is indirect and distanced from the original evil act.

The vaccine from AstraZeneca, on the other hand, does make use of cell lines from an aborted fetus in the design, development, and production of the vaccine, and should be avoided when other vaccines are available.

Below is a press release from the UNITED STATES CONFERENCE OF CATHOLIC BISHOPS addressing the morality of these three vaccines, and how Catholics can approach the matter with a clear conscience. On page 6 of the Courier, you will also find a more detailed set of Frequently Asked Questions prepared by the ARCHDIOCESE OF ST. PAUL AND MINNEAPOLIS, with more in-depth information regarding the COVID-19 vaccines.

USCCB statement: https://www.usccb.org/news/2020/ us-bishop-chairmen-pro-life-and-doctrine-address-ethicalconcerns-new-covid-19-vaccines

U.S. Bishop Chairmen for Pro-Life and Doctrine Address Ethical Concerns on the New COVID-19 Vaccines from usccb.org

WASHINGTON– On December 14, Bishop Kevin C. Rhoades of Fort Wayne-South Bend, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Committee on Doctrine, and Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann of Kansas City in Kansas, chairman of the USCCB’s Committee on Pro-Life Activities, issued a statement on the new COVID19 vaccines. In their statement, the bishops address the moral concerns raised by the fact that the three vaccines that appear to be ready for distribution in the United States all have some connection to cell lines that originated with tissue taken from abortions.

With regard to the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines, they concluded: “In view of the gravity of the current pandemic and the lack of availability of alternative vaccines, the reasons to accept the new COVID-19 vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna are sufficiently serious to justify their use, despite their remote connection to morally compromised cell lines.

“Receiving one of the COVID-19 vaccines ought to be understood as an act of charity toward the other members of our community. In this way, being vaccinated safely against COVID-19 should be considered an act of love of our neighbor and part of our moral responsibility for the common good.”

Vaccines, cont'd on pg. 6

Pope Asks Virgin Mary to Intercede for US After Capitol Violence

By COURTNEY MARES

VATICAN CITY, Jan. 10, 2021 (CNA) - Pope Francis prayed Sunday for the United States, asking the Immaculate Virgin Mary to help foster a “culture of encounter” after the recent violence at the U.S. Capitol Building.

“I extend an affectionate greeting to the people of the United States of America, shaken by the recent siege of Congress. I pray for those who lost their lives, five lost in those dramatic moments,” Pope Francis said after his Angelus address Jan. 10.

“I reaffirm that violence is always selfdestructive. Nothing is gained with violence and so much is lost. I urge the authority of the state and the entire population to maintain a high sense of responsibility in order to calm the spirits, promote national reconciliation and protect the democratic values rooted in American society,” the pope said.

In the midday Marian prayer broadcast live from the library of the Vatican’s Apostolic Palace, Pope Francis invoked the intercession of the Immaculate Conception,

Capitol Violence, cont'd on pg. 2

INSIDE this issue

'Beginning a New Year of Our Lord, 2021 page 4

The Year of St. Joseph

Religious Sisters of Mercy page 7

page 8

Capitol Violence,

munity, against democracy, against the common good. Thanks be to God that this has broken out and there was a chance to see it well so that now you can try and heal it. Yes, this must be condemned, this movement…”

The clip was published as a preview of a longer interview with Pope Francis by Vatican journalist Fabio Marchese Ragona, who works for the Italian television network Mediaset. who was proclaimed patroness of The interview will air on the evening of Jan. the United States in 1846.

10, and will be followed by a Mediaset-produced “May the Immaculate Virgin, film on the life of Jorge Mario Bergoglio, from Patroness of the United States of his youth in Argentina until his election as Pope America, help to keep alive the culFrancis in 2013. ture of encounter, the culture of In his Angelus address, Pope Francis reflectcare, as the main way to build the common good together,” the pope ed on the manifestation of the Holy Trinity at said.

Jesus’ baptism in the Jordan River.

Pope Francis’ comments came “After this gesture of compassion from four days after pro-Donald Trump Jesus, an extraordinary thing happens: the heavprotesters stormed the ens open and the Trinity is finally U.S. Capitol Building I am praying for revealed. The Holy Spirit descends Jan. 6 as Congress was the United States in the form of a dove and the Father in the process of cersays to Jesus: ‘You are my beloved of America, shaken tifying the presidenSon.’ God manifests himself when tial election results, by the recent attack mercy appears,” Pope Francis said. leading to the evacua- on Congress. I pray “Do not forget this: God manition of lawmakers and for those who lost fests himself when mercy appears, the deadly shooting of their life. Violence is because that is his face. Jesus one protester by law always self-destrucbecomes the servant of sinners and enforcement. A U.S. Capitol police tive. I urge everyone is proclaimed Son; He lowers himofficer also died from injuries sus- to promote a culture self upon us and the Spirit descends tained during the attack, and three of encounter and of other protesters died due to medical care to construct the upon him. Love calls love. It is also true for us: in every gesture of seremergencies. common good. vice, in every work of mercy that we In a video clip published Jan. perform, God manifests himself, God Pope Francis, 9, Pope Francis said that he was January 10, 2021 sets his gaze on the world.” “astonished” by this incident that The pope said that “God overoccurred in the U.S. Capitol Building. comes the evil of the world by hum“I was astonished, because they are a people bling himself.” so disciplined in democracy, right? But it’s a He added: “It is also the way in which we reality,” the pope said in the clip published to the can lift others up: not judging, not in commandwebsite of the Italian news program TgCom24. ing what to do, but by becoming neighbors, by “Something isn’t working,” Francis continempathizing, by sharing God's love.” ued. With “people taking a path against the com-

cont'd from pg. 1

The Courier Insider

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Articles of Interest

Beginning a New Year of Our Lord, 2021____4 A Better 2021______________________________5 Year Dedicated to Family__________________6 The Year of St. Joseph__________________7 Religious Sisters of Mercy__________________8 Catholic Schools Updates_________________9 Thank You, Donors!______________________10 Diocesan Headlines______________________11 Officials

The Most Rev. John M. Quinn, Bishop of the Diocese of WinonaRochester, announces the following appointments: Pastoral Council Steve and Allison Hesse: appointed to the Diocese of Winona-Rochester Pastoral Council, effective November 16, 2020.

Rochester Franciscans Pray for Peace After Capitol Violence

By SR. RAMONA MILLER

�he

leadership of the Rochester Franciscans, along with the 1300 members of the Leadership Conference of Women Religious (LCWR), joins with the world in praying for peace after witnessing the violence and lawlessness yesterday in our nation's capital.

We are deeply concerned about the state of our country and the future of

our democracy. Our hearts ached as we watched these despicable actions that threaten not only to destroy the seat of our government but to rend the bonds that unite us. We commend and thank the members of Congress who courageously continued their service to the nation last night even amid the chaos.

In our increasingly divided nation, we renew our commitment to the common good and pledge to take up the

The Courier is the official publication of the Diocese of Winona-Rochester 55 West Sanborn, P.O. Box 588, Winona, MN 55987 Vol 112 - 1

Most Reverend John M. Quinn, Publisher Matt Willkom, Editor Nick Reller, Associate Editor Telephone: 507-858-1257 Fax:507-454-8106 E-mail: nreller@dowr.org Publishing Schedule: Monthly - Deadline for advertising & articles is the 10th of the month prior.

(ISSN 0744-5490) January 2021 w The Courier w dowr.org

challenge to use our energy to repair our democracy and contribute to the work of building a more perfect union.

We invite all people of good will to join us and we call on our elected leaders to point the way.

Sr. Ramona Miller is the congregational minister for the Sisters of St. Francis in Rochester.

Child Abuse Policy Information

The Diocese of Winona-Rochester will provide a prompt, appropriate and compassionate response to reporters of sexual abuse of a child by any diocesan agent (employees, volunteers, vendors, religious or clergy). Anyone wishing to make a report of an allegation of sexual abuse should call the Victim Assistance Coordinator at 507454-2270, Extension 255. A caller will be asked to provide his or her name and telephone number. Individuals are also encouraged to take their reports directly to civil authorities. The Diocese of Winona-Rochester is committed to protecting children, young people and other vulnerable people in our schools, parishes and ministries. The diocesan policy is available on the diocesan web site at www.dow. org under the Safe Environment Program. If you have any questions about the Diocese of Winona-Rochester’s implementation of the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People, please contact Mary Hamann at 507-858-1244, or mhamann@dowr.org.

The Holy Father's Intention for

January 2021 Human Fraternity May the Lord give us the grace to live in full fellowship with our brothers and sisters of other religions, praying for one another, open to all.

Where to Find the Courier

Note: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, hard copies of the Courier are currently not available in our churches.

• Hard copies of the Courier are available in the churches of the Diocese of Winona-Rochester at the first weekend Masses of each month.

• An online version may be viewed at www.dowr.org/offices/ courier/index.html • To be added to the home delivery list, readers should send their names and addresses to: Diocese of Winona-Rochester The Courier 55 W Sanborn St. Winona, MN 55987 or nreller@dowr.org

Christ Is Calling A Relationship with Christ Our hearts yearn for a peace and happiness that this world is unable to give. Even before 2020 was upended by COVID-19, the brokenness of our world was evident. War, violence, disease, hatred, slavery, poverty, and death are just a few of the scourges facing humanity.

We were made for God and by God, but after the fall, death and sin entered the world and our relationship with our Creator was broken. We are now prone to temptation and sin and no longer worthy to spend eternity with our Triune God in heaven.

Jesus Christ came to restore the relationship between fallen humanity

Rejoice in Hope Bishop John M. Quinn Bishop's Calendar

Gospel of Luke in 30 days.

More information on this opportunity can be obtained by contacting Susan WindleyDaoust at swindley@dowr. org or 507-858-1277.

Another important way to renew your relationship with Christ is to make the Sacrament of Penance a regular part of your life.

Has it been a while since you went to Confession?

If so, I encourage you to return and make a fresh start, remembering that it is Christ who meets you in the person of the priest. Christ is always eager to forgive us, if we simply come to Him with a contrite heart. Regularly receiving the Lord’s mercy is a powerful way to strengthen one’s relationship with Christ.

Jesus Christ came to save the lost and heal the broken, and He wants to touch our lives. How will you respond to His invitation for a relationship with Him in 2021?

Safe Haven Sunday

February 7 will mark the third year that the Diocese of Winona-Rochester is participating in Safe Haven Sunday. This is an initiative of parishes and dioceses across the U.S., to bring greater awareness to the harms of pornography and provide assistance to parents, families, and individuals in keeping it out of their lives.

Unfortunately, pornography has become an increasingly common addiction, affecting men, women,

January 5, Tuesday 4-8 p.m. - Parish Civil Corporation Board of Trustees Virtual Meetings

January 20, Wednesday 6:30 a.m. - Lauds and Mass - IHM Seminary, Winona

January 7, Thursday 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. - Parish Civil Corporation Board of Trustees Virtual Meetings 4 p.m. - Bi-weekly Zoom Meeting with MN Bishops and Jason Adkins, MCC January 9-15, Saturday-Friday Region VIII Bishops’ Retreat

January 21, Thursday 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. - Parish Civil Corporation Board of Trustees Virtual Meetings 1 p.m. - Holy Hour and Bishop’s Cabinet Meeting - Winona 4 p.m. - Bi-weekly Zoom Meeting with MN Bishops and Jason Adkins, MCC

January 19, Tuesday 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. - Clergy Personnel Committee Meeting - Winona 4-7:40 p.m. - Parish Civil Corporation Board of Trustees Virtual Meetings

January 26, Tuesday 10 a.m. - Diocesan COVID-19 Task Force Meeting

January 25, Monday 8 a.m. - Teach at SMU

children, and families. It harms not only those who view it, but also negatively affects their relationships with those around them.

Pornography vastly distorts one’s view of sexuality, and can permanently alter a person’s brain. Sadly, now with increased isolation due to COVID, pornography is becoming an even greater problem than ever before.

Parishes that participate in Safe Haven Sunday will receive the book Connected to distribute to parishioners.

Connected explores how parents can strengthen their family life so as to protect their children and teens from hidden pornography usage.

For more information on Safe Haven Sunday, or resources surrounding the issue of pornography, you can contact Peter Martin at pmartin@ dowr.org or 507-858-1273.

Roe vs. Wade

January 22 marks the tragic Supreme Court decision of Roe vs. Wade, and on this day the Catholic Church in the U.S. celebrates the Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children. We are invited to pray and fast for the intention of an end to abortion, when those in the womb will be given legal protection to live and enjoy life.

Here in the Diocese of Winona-Rochester, all are invited to join in viewing the national March for Life and accompanying events in Washington, D.C. On January 22 there will also be

11 a.m. - 2 p.m. - Holy Hour & Diocesan Finance Council Meeting - Winona January 27, Wednesday 11:30 a.m. - Mass for Life - Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, Winona 12:30 p.m. - Special Meeting of the USCCB Committee on Catholic Education - Virtual/Zoom January 28, Thursday 9:30 a.m. - Holy Hour & Diocesan College of Consultors Meeting February 1, Monday 8 a.m. - Teach at SMU

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a March for Life at the Minnesota state capitol, and Prayer Service for Life at the Cathedral of St. Paul in St. Paul.

Details for the events in St. Paul can be found at archspm.org/ events. Locally, I will be celebrating a Mass for Life on Wednesday, January 27, at 11:30 a.m., at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Winona. This date falls during the annual 9 Days for Life novena held January 21-29.

It has now been almost 50 years since the legalization of abortion in the U.S., with over 60 million unborn children killed since then. It can be hard to stay hopeful in the face of such grim statistics, but we must not be discouraged from speaking out for those who have no voice and working for the defense of innocent human life. We must root our efforts in prayer, praying for the end of abortion and the conversion of hearts, and then place our efforts in God’s hands. Blessed are you!

From the Bishop

�ear Friends in Christ,

and His Heavenly Father.

Because of our frailty and our inability to make amends for sinning against an infinitely gracious God, God Himself came to save us. Through the Sacrament of Baptism, we are washed of our sins and become co-heirs with Him in heaven. As God, He was able to pay the infinite price of our redemption which we were unable to pay ourselves; coming as man, He was able to atone for the sins of humanity on our behalf.

Prayer and the sacraments are the backbone of a life rooted in Christ. As we continue to have less activities and more time at home, I encourage you to consider how you can incorporate prayer more intentionally into your life this year. Maybe it is by quietly doing some spiritual reading for 10 minutes each morning, or praying the rosary as a family in the evening. You may decide to pray the Liturgy of the Hours, the traditional prayer of the Church prayed by priests, deacons, and religious every day, or read about the saints and their unique paths to holiness.

Another excellent spiritual practice is to make time to read Scripture, as Christ speaks to us through the written word of God. To help you in your efforts of praying with the Scriptures, this January the diocese’s Office of Missionary Discipleship is offering a 30-day Encountering Jesus challenge, with a booklet that guides you through the

Sincerely in Christ,

Most Rev. John M. Quinn Bishop of Winona-Rochester

February 2, Tuesday 11 a.m. - Holy Hour and Pension Plan for Priests Board Meeting - Winona 4-8 p.m. - Parish Civil Corporation Board of Trustees Virtual Meetings February 4, Thursday 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. - Parish Civil Corporation Board of Trustees Virtual Meetings 1 p.m. - Holy Hour and Bishop’s Cabinet Meeting 4 p.m. - Bi-weekly Zoom Meeting with MN Bishops and Jason Adkins, MCC 5:15 p.m. - Opening Mass for local FOCUS SEEK Conference - Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, Winona January 2021 w The Courier w dowr.org

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Beginning a New Year of Our Lord, 2021 We may be anxious to put 2020 behind us, but before we do, it is important for us to look back at what most would describe as the most challenging year of their lives and to reflect upon what we have learned or will take with us into 2021.

The year 2020 may have indeed helped us to have clearer vision – a deeper appreciation for the way in which our faith in Jesus Christ is our foundation, our strength and our courage. Perhaps we enter into the new year with greater appreciation for the gifts of life and faith, family, and friends.

Some grieve the passing of a loved one or the loss of a job. We are more mindful now of our human fragility and the strength of the human spirit. And we begin this new year in hope that the virus will be abated and we will soon be able to celebrate the Eucharistic feast in communion with Christ and one another.

-Leisa Anslinger (Impact, January 2021)

This Year, Remain in Christ

Lay Formation & RCIA

“Look to the first disciples and learn what it means to be open to a deep relationship with Jesus.

“The gospel we hear on January 17 tells us of the first disciples. The disciples did not know Jesus when they first approached him asking, ‘Where are you staying?’ In First Century Jewish life, aspiring disciples, those who would take on the way of a Rabbi, would have proved themselves ready through years of study before asking to learn from a master teacher. The two disciples, however, had not been proven as able students. Their only qualification was a great desire to know God’s ways.

“Jesus understood what was in their hearts and minds and said to them, ‘Come and see.’ Responding to this call of Christ changed the lives of the two disciples, their family and friends, and ultimately, the whole world.

“As the disciples journeyed with Jesus, they realized that where he ‘stayed’ is about much more than his physical place of residence. Jesus stayed with God, returning to God in prayer at key moments in his life and ministry, showing and sharing God’s love in word and deed, and leading his disciples to do the same. Jesus did not stray from God’s ways, even when doing so led him to death reetings of Peace, Friends in Christ! on the cross.

In this January issue, I want to share some “The two disciples remained with Jesus that reflections on allowing a perspective of faith and first day. As he anticipated his discipleship to guide us as we passion, Jesus urged his disciples enter into this new year. To do this, Impact is a monthly to remain in him. In the hours I will share some content from the resource for parishes which before his arrest, he asked them January issue of the faith resource, to stay with him. Jesus asks us seeks “to form people as disImpact, created by my colleague to do the same – to remain in ciples and good stewards who and friend, Leisa Anslinger, and his love, becoming more like him share their gifts and faith, produced by Catholic Life and each day. making an impact in their lives Faith. I am most grateful for her “This year, let us make a comand the life of the world. Each permission to reprint from this mitment to remain with the Lord, month, Impact focuses on excellent resource! trusting in his goodness, resting themes found in the Sunday in his care when we are weary, readings, connecting Mass Grace in Our Midst finding strength through the Holy with the call to discipleship, Spirit when we are uncertain, and “We begin a new year. A.D. 2021. growing as good stewards, reaching out to others with the ‘A.D.’, ‘Anno Domini’, is a Latin and sharing faith in daily life.” hope that is only found in Christ.” phrase which means, ‘In the year For more information and of the Lord.’ Thus, two letters to see a sample issue, visit: Let us begin this new year with serve to remind us that all we renewed commitment to live as www.catholiclifeandfaith. are and have and will be is grace disciples and grow as good and net/discover-impact – pure gift from our good and gracious God, each and every day.

“It is good to begin 2021 by reflecting on the mystery of God’s presence within and around us. Even when we do not place the A.D. before the year as we mark the date on our calendars, calling it to mind will help us to grow as people who are mindful of God’s grace in our midst.

“This year, let us invite the Holy Spirit to open our minds and hearts to perceive the reality of God’s presence, even when doing so is difficult. We seek God’s love, mercy and grace by faith, and see it when we are attentive to the many blessings of our lives, in the gift of family and friends, and in the sense of fulfillment we find in serving others.

“God’s presence in our lives is a gift, and bears with it responsibility. We who have been given much are called to give much in return, as good stewards of God’s grace. Not out of obligation, but out of deep gratitude. When we do this, we give God’s glory, reflecting the perfect love and gift of our Lord Jesus Christ. What a perfect way to begin a new year, A.D. 2021.”

�

January 2021 w The Courier w dowr.org

Todd Graff

Director of Lay Formation & RCIA tgraff@dowr.org

faithful stewards of all that has been entrusted to us.

May 2021 be a year in which we know and share the goodness of the Lord. May we live faith NOW. -Leisa Anslinger (Impact, January 2021) A Personal Note…

I want to close by sharing the news that my mom, Dolores Graff, passed away on November 21. She was 88 years old. She was my mother for 54 years, following my biological mom’s passing when I was four years old. My dad married Dolores in 1966.

They had each been widowed with four children, and had three children together – making for a family of 13.

She was a woman of deep Catholic faith, and passed this onto me with great care and dedication.

She lived a very full life, as you might imagine, and also knew many times of great suffering throughout her life, including during the last months of her life when she was restricted to her bed and unable to communicate beyond looking at you and grasping your hand.

She had a deep love and devotion to our Blessed Mother, and I feel a sense of peace knowing that she died on a Marian feast (The Presentation of Mary).

As one would know, these weeks since her passing have been a time of deep emotion and sadness for me. But, I am also at peace knowing that she is in the eternal embrace of our loving and merciful God! May the angels lead her into paradise; may the martyrs welcome her and lead her to the holy city, the new and eternal Jerusalem.

Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her.

May she rest in peace. Amen.

Deo Gratias!

Join Us for the 30-Day Prayer Challenge!

Susan Windley-Daoust

Director of Missionary Discipleship swindley@dowr.org

�hat would it look like if every Catholic in

southern Minnesota prayed through the Gospel of Luke together for 30 days straight?

Friends, we welcome everyone in southern Minnesota to join Encountering Jesus through Scripture: The 30-Day Prayer Challenge. Whether you pray every day or not, you are welcome. (If you are out of practice, pray 15 minutes a day.

You already pray daily? Add 15 minutes and pray through Luke with us!). Meeting Jesus again through the Gospel of Luke is our best guarantee that 2021 will be better (at least spiritually) than 2020. After all, “prayer is the place of refuge for every worry, a foundation for cheerfulness, a source of constant happiness, a protection against sadness.” (St. John Chrysostom) Doesn’t that sound good right now? Prayer does indeed change things: so all together, let us pray!

We are praying together through the month of January, starting January 2. If you see this article later, don’t worry. Just join us when you see it! The Encountering Jesus through Scripture: The 30-Day Prayer Challenge booklet instructs you how to pray through Lectio Divina, 30 scriptural prompts, and four weekly reflection questions for journaling.

You can download the booklet here (https:// www.dowr.org/offices/missionary-discipleship/

monthly-prayer.html) or contact Susan WindleyDaoust at swindley@dowr.org to see if we have any extras left to send you. You can also track these scriptural prompts on the Diocese of WinonaRochester Facebook page.

Let’s all renew our desire to encounter afresh our Lord Jesus Christ as we face 2021, and establish a habit that is a life-changing support and hope. The following excerpt comes from the first two pages of our booklet. Enjoy! ***

The 30-Day Prayer Challenge (excerpt)

2020 has been one of the most difficult years in

our lifetime.

Do you want to do the one thing that absolutely will make 2021 better than 2020?

Can you take the challenge to know Jesus better and pray 15 minutes a day, 30 days straight?

Lectio Divina, or sacred reading, is an ancient and universal practice of reading and meditating on sacred writing. Since scripture is inspired by the Holy Spirit, a living text “breathing with God,” it makes sense that we will encounter Jesus Christ through letting his life speak to us through the Gospel of Luke. We are making time to let God speak to us and to listen.

Let’s make a few decisions right now: • When will you pray for 15 minutes?

• Where will you pray?

• Who will you ask to “check in” on whether you are doing this? (This can be a mutual check in.)

• What will you do when the day gets away from you?

Revive Parishes continues to be an outstanding resource for on-demand mission-focused learning. If you want to discover this free resource, sign up and explore at www.reviveparishes. com/winona-rochester. We are offering diocesan facilitated Zoom mini-courses on Fundraising from a Mission Perspective and Who’s in the Pews? The Generational Divide, which focuses on Millennials and Gen Z. Please contact Susan Windley-Daoust if you are interested in either mini-course or learning more about Revive Parishes: swindley@dowr.org .

The following is the Lectio process. It is meant to be a guide, not a rigid format. If you are not familiar with this way of prayer, it becomes easier after the first few days. We’re aiming for 30 days straight to get into the habit. Besides--this simple prayer can genuinely change your 2021, and awaken your relationship with Jesus Christ! Join us across southern Minnesota and let’s begin!

The Lectio process: Begin your prayer time by mentally putting aside distractions, and turning off your cell phone. Breathe slowly and settle into a minute of silence. Pray to the Holy Spirit: “Holy Spirit, I know you

Missionary Discipleship

A Better 2021

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are here. I give you permission to act in my life. Help me to encounter the living Jesus Christ.”

Find the passage of the day, and • Read. Slowly. Read again. Is there a word or phrase that catches your attention? Linger there. Write it down in the booklet. Consider reading the passage aloud to yourself.

• Reflect. If something caught your attention, look at that a little longer. Was that unsettling? comforting? surprising? interesting? if a word or phrase did not catch your attention, focus on Jesus and his words. Imagine the scene as clearly as you can. Go back and reread if that is helpful.

• Respond. This is where you speak to Jesus.

Talk to him about what seems to be stirring in your heart. You may want clarity, or you want to praise, repent, or simply talk. This is your time with the Lord.

• Receive. What does the Lord want to give you today? Rest in his presence? Peace around a concern of yours? Light around a life decision?

You may not know what the Lord is giving you, but practice waiting in trust for his presence and word. “Here am I, Lord, your servant is listening.” (1 Samuel 3:10) Conclude with familiar prayer (an Our Father or Glory Be) or your own words to God. ***

Interested? Get the entire booklet here: https://www.dowr.org/ offices/missionarydiscipleship/monthly-prayer.html

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Pope Francis to Mark Fifth Anniversary of Amoris Laetitia with Year Dedicated to Family tia following synods on the family in 2014 and 2015.

He said: “Today’s feast reminds us of the example of evangelising with the family, proposing to us once again the ideal of conjugal and family love, as underlined in the apostolic exhortation Amoris laetitia, promulgated five years ago this coming March 19.

And it will be a year of reflection on Amoris laetitia and it will be an opportunity to focus more closely on the contents of the document. These reflections will be made available to ecclesial communities and

With regard to the AstraZeneca vaccine, the bishops found it to be “more morally compromised” and consequently concluded that this vaccine “should be avoided” if there are alternatives available. “It may turn out, however, that one does not really have a choice of vaccine, at least, not without a lengthy delay in immunization that may have serious consequences for one’s health and the health of others,” the bishop chairmen stated. “In such a case … it would be permissible to accept the AstraZeneca vaccine.”

At the same time, the bishops also warned that Catholics “must be on guard so that the new COVID19 vaccines do not desensitize us or weaken our determination to oppose the evil of abortion itself and the subsequent use of fetal cells in research.”

The full statement from the bishop chairmen may be found online at usccb.org/moral-considerations-covid-vaccines.

employing the commonly used, but morally compromised HEK293 cell line was performed on both vaccines. Thus, while neither vaccine is completely free from any connection to morally compromised cell lines, in this case the connection is very remote from the initial evil of the abortion.”

The statement further places into context how the HEK293 cell line is morally compromised, via the following footnote: “The cell line involved in the three new COVID-19 vaccines, a cell line known as HEK293, has its origin in kidney cells taken from the body of a child aborted in the Netherlands in 1972.”

The statement continues, “The AstraZeneca vaccine is more morally compromised. The HEK293 cell line was used in the design, development, and production stages of that vaccine, as well as for confirmatory testing.”

Similar information on other vaccines currently in development is discussed in an article Father Tadeusz Pacholczyk, “Must Catholics refuse a COVID-19 vaccine made with a cell line from an abortion?” published on TheCatholicSpirit.com December 10, 2020.

Life, Marriage & Family

VATICAN CITY, Dec. 27, 2020 (CNA) - Pope Francis announced Sunday a special year dedicated to the family, marking the fifth anniversary of the publication of his apostolic exhortation Amoris laetitia.

In his Angelus address Dec. 27, the feast of the Holy Family, the pope noted that March 19, 2021, would mark five years since the signing of Amoris laeti-

Vaccines, cont'd from pg. 1

COVID-19 Vaccine FAQs

Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis Q. Why would someone receive the COVID-19 vaccine?

A. According to a December 14, 2020 statement from the chairmen of the U.S. bishops’ doctrine and pro-life committees, “receiving the COVID-19 vaccine ought to be understood as an act of charity toward the other members of our community. In this way, being vaccinated safely against COVID-19 should be considered an act of love of our neighbor and part of our moral responsibility for the common good.”

Additionally, as stated by Dr. Andrea Arcangeli, the director of the Vatican health service, “Only through a widespread and capillary immunization of the population will it be possible to obtain real advantages in terms of public health to achieve control of the pandemic.”

Q. What vaccines are currently or may be available for COVID-19?

A. Vaccines are either currently available or likely will be made available in the near future by Pfizer, Moderna and AstraZeneca. Others are in development, but recent discussion has focused on these three offerings.

Q. Is there any connection between these vaccines and abortion?

A. The chairmen of the U.S. bishops’ doctrine and prolife committees describe the connection as follows: “Neither Pfizer nor Moderna used morally compromised cell lines in the design, development, or production of the vaccine. A confirmatory test, however,

January 2021 w The Courier w dowr.org

Q. Is it morally acceptable to receive the COVID-19 vaccine? If so, why?

A. As noted in December 21, 2020 a statement from the Vatican regarding the morality of using the COVID19 vaccines, “when ethically irreproachable COVID-19 vaccines are not available (e.g. in countries where vaccines without ethical problems are not made available to physicians and patients, or where their distribution is more difficult due to special storage and transport conditions, or when various types of vaccines are distributed in the same country but health authorities do not allow citizens to choose the vaccine with which to be inoculated) it is morally acceptable to receive COVID-19 vaccines that have used cell lines from aborted fetuses in their research and production process.

“The fundamental reason for considering the use of these vaccines morally licit is that the kind of cooperation in evil (passive material cooperation) in the procured abortion from which these cell lines originate is, on the part of those making use of the resulting vaccines, remote. The moral duty to avoid such passive material cooperation is not obligatory if there is a grave danger, such as the otherwise uncontainable spread of a serious pathological agent--in this case, the pandemic spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19.”

The chairmen of the U.S. bishops’ doctrine and prolife committees specify,1 “In view of the gravity of the current pandemic and the lack of availability of alternative vaccines, the reasons to accept the new COVID-19 vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna are sufficiently serious to justify their use, despite their remote connection to morally compromised cell lines.”

However, the chairmen add, “The AstraZeneca vaccine should be avoided if there are alternatives available.”

Peter Martin

Director of Faith Formation and Life, Marriage & Family pmartin@dowr.org

Amoris Laetitia, cont'd on pg. 7 Q. Does receiving the COVID-19 vaccine mean accepting or even supporting use of morally problematic cells in medicine?

A. The statement from the Vatican points out, “all vaccinations recognized as clinically safe and effective can be used in good conscience with the certain knowledge that the use of such vaccines does not constitute formal cooperation with the abortion from which the cells used in production of the vaccines derive. It should be emphasized, however, that the morally licit use of these types of vaccines, in the particular conditions that make it so, does not in itself constitute a legitimation, even indirect, of the practice of abortion, and necessarily assumes the opposition to this practice by those who make use of these vaccines.”

Q. Is the vaccine effective?

A. Both the Vatican statement and the statement by the chairmen of the U.S. bishops’ doctrine and pro-life committees explain that questions of the efficacy of the vaccines must be addressed by those in the medical community.

The Vatican notes, “We do not intend to judge the safety and efficacy of these vaccines, although ethically relevant and necessary, as this evaluation is the responsibility of biomedical researchers and drug agencies.”

The chairmen’s statement includes the following: “Nothing in this document is intended to express any opinion as to the safety or efficacy of any vaccine in general or in any particular case.”

Q. Is it a moral obligation to receive the vaccine?

A. The December 21 statement from the Vatican explains that “practical reason makes evident that vaccination is not, as a rule, a moral obligation and that, therefore, it must be voluntary. In any case, from the ethical point of view, the morality of vaccination depends not only on the duty to protect one's own health, but also on the duty to pursue the common good. In the absence of other means to stop or even prevent the epidemic, the common good may recommend vaccination, especially to protect the weakest and most exposed. Those who, however, for reasons of conscience, refuse vaccines produced with cell lines from aborted fetuses, must do their utmost to avoid, by other prophylactic means and appropriate behavior, becoming vehicles for the transmission of the infectious agent. In particular, they must avoid any risk to the health of those who cannot be vaccinated for medical or other reasons, and who are the most vulnerable.”

Q. How can I learn more about this issue?

A. Find information and actions of the U.S. Bishops in promoting ethical vaccines on the USCCB website.

Additionally, the National Catholic Bioethics Center (ncbcenter.org) addresses vaccines and other issues pertaining to the promotion of human dignity in health care and the life sciences.

The Year of St. Joseph Aaron Lofy

Director of Youth & Young Adults, alofy@dowr.org

CNA STAFF, Dec. 10, 2020 (CNA) - On Tuesday, Pope Francis announced a Year of St. Joseph, in honor of the 150th anniversary of the saint’s proclamation as patron of the Universal Church.

Pope Francis said he was establishing the year so that “every member of the faithful, following his example, may strengthen their life of faith daily in the complete fulfillment of God’s will.”

Here’s what you need to know about the Year of St. Joseph: The Church observes the passage of time through the liturgical calendar - which includes feasts such as Easter and Christmas, and seasons such as Lent and Advent. In addition, however, popes can set aside time for the Church to reflect more deeply on a specific aspect of Catholic teaching or belief. Past years designated by recent popes include a Year of Faith, Year of the Eucharist, and Jubilee Year of Mercy.

Why did the Pope declare a year of St. Joseph?

In making his declaration, Pope Francis noted that this year marks the 150th anniversary of the saint’s proclamation as patron of the Universal Church by Pope Pius IX on Dec. 8, 1870.

Pope Francis said the coronavirus pandemic has heightened his desire to reflect on St. Joseph, as so

Amoris Laetitia, cont'd from pg. 6

families, to accompany them on their journey.”

“As of now, I invite everyone to take part in the initiatives that will be promoted during the Year and that will be coordinated by the Dicastery for Laity, Family, and Life. Let us entrust this journey, with families all over the world, to the Holy Family of Nazareth, in particular to St. Joseph, the devoted spouse and father.”

The pope’s announcement follows his proclamation of a year dedicated to St. Joseph, which began on Dec. 8 and will conclude on Dec. 8, 2021.

Pope Francis released the apostolic exhortation Amoris laetitia (“The Joy of Love”) on April 8, 2016, though it was signed on March 19 that year. One of the longest documents in papal history, it consists of an introduction and nine chapters, reflecting on challenges to marriage and family life.

A Dec. 27 press release from the Dicastery for Laity, Family, and Life said that the newly proclaimed year would be known officially as the Year “Amoris Laetitia Family.”

It said: “The pandemic experience has highlighted the central role of the family as the domestic Church and has shown the importance of community

many people during the pandemic have made hidden sacrifices to protect others, just as St. Joseph quietly protected and cared for Mary and Jesus.

“Each of us can discover in Joseph -- the man who goes unnoticed, a daily, discreet and hidden presence -- an intercessor, a support and a guide in times of trouble,” the pope wrote.

He also said he wanted to highlight St. Joseph’s role as a father who served his family with charity and humility, adding, “Our world today needs fathers.”

When does the Year of St. Joseph begin and end?

The year begins Dec. 8, 2020, and concludes on Dec. 8, 2021.

What special graces are available during this year?

As Catholics pray and reflect on the life of St. Joseph throughout the coming year, they also have opportunities to gain a plenary indulgence, or remission of all temporal punishment due to sin. An indulgence can be applied to oneself or to a soul in Purgatory.

An indulgence requires a specific act, defined by the Church, as well as sacramental confession, Eucharistic Communion, prayer for the pope’s intentions, and full detachment from sin.

Special indulgences during the Year of St. Joseph can be received through more than a dozen different prayers and actions, including praying for the unemployed, entrusting one’s daily work to St. Joseph, performing a corporal or spiritual work of mercy, or meditating for at least 30 minutes on the Lord’s Prayer.

ties between families, which make the Church an authentic ‘family of families.’”

“Through the spiritual, pastoral, and cultural initiatives planned in the Year ‘Amoris Laetitia Family,’ Pope Francis intends to address all ecclesial communities throughout the world, exhorting each person to be a witness of family love.”

“Resources will be shared within parishes, dioceses, universities, and in the context of ecclesial movements and family associations, on: family spirituality, formation and pastoral activity for marriage preparation, young people education in affective maturity, and on the holiness of married couples and families who live out the grace of the sacrament in their daily life.”

“International academic symposiums will also be organized to examine in-depth the contents and implications of the apostolic exhortation in relation to highly topical issues that affect families around the world.”

The dicastery also announced the creation of a new website, www.amorislaetitia.va, dedicated to the year, which will begin on March 19, 2021, and end on June 26, 2022, with the celebration of the 10th World Meeting of Families in Rome.

It explained that an “informational brochure” would be available on the site, which currently redirects to the dicastery’s homepage.

Among the initiatives announced in the bro-

Why does the Church honor St. Joseph?

Catholics do not worship saints, but ask for their heavenly intercession before God and seek to imitate their virtues here on earth. The Catholic Church honors St. Joseph as the foster father of Jesus. He is invoked as the patron saint of the Universal Church. He is also the patron of workers, father, and a happy death.

Youth & Young Adults

What Catholics Need to Know

7

chure are a forum to be held June 9-12, 2021, entitled “Where are we with Amoris laetitia? Strategies for implementing the apostolic exhortation of Pope Francis.” Forum participants will include the heads of offices for family pastoral ministry of the world’s bishops’ conferences, as well as members of international movements and family associations.

The brochure also said that Pope Francis would take part in a project called “10 Videos Amoris Laetitia” in which he would “explain the chapters of the apostolic exhortation, along with families who will give witness by sharing some aspects of their daily lives.” The videos will appear monthly.

The dicastery said that the new website dedicated to the special year sought to help in “spreading the Christian message on the family in light of the challenges of our time; promoting a deeper understanding of the text of the apostolic exhortation and of the magisterium of Pope Francis; inviting episcopal conferences, dioceses, and parishes, together with ecclesial movements, associations, and families, to devote themselves enthusiastically to the pastoral care of the family by implementing Amoris laetitia.”

The dicastery added that the site would be presented in five languages -- English, French, Spanish, Portuguese, and Italian -- and would be “updated with the proposals and initiatives that will gradually develop over the course of the year.”

January 2021 w The Courier w dowr.org

8

Greetings from the

Religious Sisters of Mercy

By SR. MARIA PACIS POLAKOVIC, RSM

�

Vocations

arm greetings! We are members of the Religious Sisters of Mercy of Alma, MI, living and serving here in the Diocese of Winona-Rochester!

We gratefully accept the invitation to share with you about our religious community and our involvement here in the diocese.

In 1831, Venerable Mother Catherine McAuley, responding to a particular need in the Church, founded the Religious Sisters of Mercy in Dublin, Ireland, as a response to the Holy Spirit’s gift and prompting to care for “the poor, sick, and ignorant,” with particular attention given to distressed women. Knowing of Our Lord’s great mercy in being called to follow Him, through a radical configuration to our merciful Savior in His redemptive act on the Cross, the Sisters seek to serve the Church through alleviating and elevating situations of human misery with the gift of His Mercy. We recognize this as the charism (the gift of the Holy Spirit for the building up of the Church) given to Mother Catherine, and we seek to faithfully participate in this charism as her daughters in our times today.

A Prayer for Vocations O God, Father of all Mercies, Provider of a bountiful Harvest,

send Your Graces upon those You have called to gather the fruits of Your labor; preserve and strengthen them in their lifelong service of you.

Open the hearts of Your children that they may discern Your Holy Will; inspire in them a love and desire to surrender themselves to serving others in the name of Your son, Jesus Christ.

Teach all Your faithful to follow their respective paths in life guided by Your Divine Word and Truth.

Through the intercession of the Most Blessed Virgin Mary, all the Angels, and Saints, humbly hear our prayers and grant Your Church's needs, through Christ, our Lord. Amen.

January 2021 w The Courier w dowr.org

Rev. Jason Kern Director of Vocations jkern@dowr.org

In 1973, our particular community was refounded in Alma, MI, which houses our motherhouse and our homes of early formation. As consecrated religious women, we profess public vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience; and, unique to our community, we profess a fourth vow of service to “the poor, sick, and ignorant," recognizing first our own poverty, sickness, and ignorance, seeking to serve one another.

Our life of communion gives rise to our mission in the Church. We are currently blessed with about 100 Sisters, serving the Church throughout the US, Australia, Germany, Scotland, and Rome.

We have been serving in the Diocese of Winona-Rochester for nearly 40 years, beginning in 1981 with the Sacred Heart Mercy Health Care Clinic in Jackson, which recently closed in 2018. In 2012, Bishop Quinn invited our community to serve in the city of Winona.

While each vocation story uniquely reveals God’s loving providence and mercy in each life, there are a few noticeable common strands that seem to be present in many of our Sisters’ stories of discernment – an attraction to the community’s life of prayer, an attraction to the joy of the Sisters’ common life, and the desire to give oneself totally to the Lord in loving service.

We currently have four Sisters serving in the diocese – Sr. Maria Pacis Polakovic, Sr. Mary Elizabeth Ann McCullough, Sr. Mary Andrea Lesko, and Sr. Agnes Mary Graves – by means of teaching, nursing, campus ministry, and studies.

What does a day in the life of a Sister of Mercy look like? Each day is centered and structured around our life of prayer, community life, and apostolic works. In each of our convents throughout the world, the heart and unity of our life rests in the Most Blessed Sacrament. Mother Catherine would say, “To consider that we live under the same roof as Our Divine Lord Himself is sufficient to sweeten and make easy all that is most difficult”.

We begin our day with Office of Readings, Morning Prayer, a time of meditation, usually followed by Holy Mass. Eating together in common, we head out in service in our apostolic works. We join one another for Holy Hour in the evening, followed by dinner and a time of recreation.

Leaving all into God’s hands, we end our day in prayer with Compline, and then rest for the evening.

Our community’s patronal feast day is September 24, which is the feast of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of Mercy. Our Blessed Mother, as Mother of Mercy, helps each Sister to be an instrument of mercy by inviting her to the foot of her Son’s Cross. Our heavenly patrons are Venerable Catherine McAuley, our foundress, and St. Thomas Aquinas, on whose philosophical and theological teachings our formation program rests. Some of our communal devotions are to the Passion of Christ, the Blessed Sacrament, and the Sacred Heart.

Mother Catherine taught her Sisters, “We are formed by God for Himself alone, to be united with Him here by love and fidelity; and hereafter by enjoyment and beatitude.” We certainly keep Bishop Quinn and the Diocese of Winona-Rochester in our daily prayers. If you would like to learn more about our community, we invite you to visit our website – www.rsmofalma.org.

We wish you and your loved ones a very blessed Christmas season!

In each of our convents throughout the world, the heart and unity of our life rests in the Most Blessed Sacrament.

Sister Maria Pacis Polakovic, RSM, is a Religious Sister of Mercy of Alma, MI, serving in the Diocese of Winona-Rochester.

Traditions Live On Marsha Stenzel

Superintendent of Catholic Schools mstenzel@dowr.org

By KANE MALO

�e have all been affected by the pandemic dif-

ferently. We at Pacelli Catholic Schools were able to start the school year and make it through the first quarter before COVID made it through our door. During that time, we were able to have our Homecoming: king and queen were crowned, floats and memories made, a parade was had, and a football game was played. Shortly after this, we had to go to distance learning due to COVID. Thanksgiving came and went, we came back to

Homecoming King Jayden Lewis and Queen Kylee Christopherson

God Is Good

By SUE AMUNDSON

�

his year has been a challenging time for all of us as we deal with the pandemic and the unknowns.

We have had to adjust to a new normal. This is a time to turn to our faith and to learn to trust in God. St. Theodore Elementary School is an amazing school located in Albert Lea, and I am so blessed to be a part of it. Our staff and students have truly come together to make our school a great place to be.

St. Theodore Elementary School has Pre-K

A new playground at St. Theodore School

Catholic Schools

at Pacelli Schools, Austin

9

Pacelli students Christmas shopping for less fortunate kids

school for seven days at the end of November and the start of December. During this time, our teachers and students were able to reconnect, build stronger relationships, and prepare for going back to distance learning so we could all have a safe, healthy, and merry Christmas.

This being my first year at Pacelli, I have seen all the great traditions we have throughout the school year, especially during the Christmas season. Our PTCA brings in small toys and gifts for our elementary students so that each and every one of them are able to give mom, dad and siblings a gift at Christmas. Our secondary students hold penny wars raising money to buy gifts for less for-

through 5th Grade. We are all working as a team to keep each other safe by wearing our masks, social distancing as much as possible, and constantly cleaning to keep each one of us safe. We are proud of our staff and students for all their hard work.

This has helped to stay in-person and the kids love seeing each other. We thank God every Wednesday when we get to go to Mass. The sound of our children singing at Mass can lift anyone’s spirit!

During this trying time, we have experienced some wonderful blessings.

Fr. Kurt Farrell decided to surprise the kids by painting the school hall walls during the summer.

The students returned to beautiful two toned blue walls. This helped to brighten the mood and start the year with smiles.

Another blessing to our school is our new playground. We are blessed with a hard working school board and priest, Fr. Farrell. This project was made possible due to a matching grant from the Richard M Schulze Family Foundation. Our students love it and enjoy playing on it any chance they get.

As we look forward, we are hopeful that we will be able to stay in person. We are truly blessed with an amazing staff that I can not thank enough for all they have done. They continue to work diligently, putting in a lot of extra hours, for our students and their families. I am honored and blessed

tunate kids. They loaded up buses, headed out to a local store and shopped, came back to school, and wrapped the presents. They then took the presents to Mass where Father blessed them. These gifts will bring joy to others.

I have witnessed many great things at Pacelli during my short time here. I cannot wait until we have a COVID-free time so that I can see all the great things that make Pacelli Catholic School so special. God has definitely blessed Pacelli and will continue to do so far into the future.

Kane Malo is the preK-12 principal for Pacelli Catholic Schools in Austin.

Fr. Kurt Farrell paints the hallways.

to have them in our school.

Thank you to our parents for all you have done to keep our school safe by taking extra precautions! I look forward to the day we can start having our PAKET Days and getting to see all of you!

God is Good!

Sue Amundson is the principal of St. Theodore School in Albert Lea. January 2021 w The Courier w dowr.org

Catholic Foundation

10

Thank You, Donors!

All Saints New Richland Assumption Canton Basilica of St. Stanislaus Kostka Winona Cathedral of the Sacred Heart Winona Christ the King Byron Co-Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist Rochester Holy Cross Dakota Holy Family East Chain Holy Family Kasson Holy Family Lake Crystal Holy Spirit Rochester Immaculate Conception Kellogg Immaculate Conception St. Clair Immaculate Conception Wilson Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Harmony Our Lady of Good Counsel Wilmont Pax Christi Rochester Resurrection Rochester Sacred Heart Brewster Sacred Heart Heron Lake

January 2021 w The Courier w dowr.org

Sacred Heart Owatonna Monica Herman Executive Director St. Adrian Catholic Foundation of Adrian Southern Minnesota mherman@catholicfsmn.org St. Agnes Kellogg The Catholic Foundation of Southern Minnesota extends St. Aloysius heartfelt thanks to everyone who helped Share His Elba Good Gifts With All by contributing to the 2020 Catholic Ministries Appeal. Your 6,026 donations amounted to St. Ann a total of $1,988,630.55 - nearly 95% of our 2020 goal.

Janesville Listed here for special recognition are the parishes who met the CMA fundraising goals they received at the start St. Ann of the appeal. Thank you!

Slayton St. Anthony Altura St. Joseph Waldorf St. Anthony Westbrook St. Leo Pipestone St. Bridget Simpson St. Luke Sherburn St. Casimir St. Martin Winona Woodstock St. Columba St. Mary Iona Chatfield St. Columban St. Mary Preston Lake Wilson St. Edward St. Mary Austin Minneiska St. Felix St. Mary Wabasha Winona St. Finbarr St. Matthew Grand Meadow Vernon Center St. Francis of Assisi St. Patrick Rochester Brownsville St. Francis Xavier St. Patrick Windom Lanesboro St. Ignatius St. Patrick Spring Valley LeRoy St. James St. Patrick Twin Lakes West Albany St. John Nepomucene St. Paul Winona Minnesota City St. John the Baptist de la Salle St. Pius X Dodge Center Rochester St. Joseph St. Rose of Lima Jasper Lewiston

Obituaries

Sister Colleen Byron, 90, a Franciscan Sister of the Congregation of Our Lady of Lourdes, Rochester, died at Assisi Heights, December 18, 2020.

Patricia Terese Byron was born April 10, 1930, at Saint Mary’s in Waseca County to William and Elmira (Conway) Byron.

She entered the Sisters of St. Francis in 1949 and made perpetual vows in 1954. Professional studies included a bachelor’s degree in Latin and Spanish from the College of Saint Teresa, Winona, in 1949, and a master’s degree in Spanish and education from Saint Mary’s University, Winona, in 1971.

Sister Colleen was a primary teacher at Catholic schools in Austin, Tracy, and Winona, and a secondary teacher of Latin and Spanish at Lourdes High School, Rochester, and Notre Dame High School in Portsmouth, OH. She was elected to leadership (19731979) for the Sisters of Saint Francis. In 1979, she began ministry as a spiritual director, which she continued throughout her life, and was part of the permanent diaconate program for the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis. Sister Colleen served as a team member in Spiritual Direction for 20 years at the Assisi Community Center, Rochester, and Holy Spirit Retreat Center, Janesville. In 2005, she began ministry as a tour guide and receptionist at the Gift of Life Transplant House in Rochester and also was a volunteer at Madonna Towers, the Ronald McDonald House and with the St. Vincent DePaul Society.

Sister Colleen is survived by her Franciscan Sisters, with whom she shared life for 71 years; two brothers, James Byron and Paul (Mayone) Byron; one sister, Helen Curran; and multiple nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, George Byron and Bill Byron; one sister, Mildred Marple; and brother- and sisters-in-law, Raymond Curran, Mary Ann Byron, Mary Jane Byron, and Rita Byron.

A private Funeral Mass will be held at Assisi Heights on December 29, 2020.

Memorials are suggested to the Sisters of St. Francis, Office of Mission Advancement, Assisi Heights, 1001 14th St. NW, Rochester, MN 55901.

Sister Janet Sieve (Sister Augusta), 77, a Franciscan Sister of the Congregation of Our Lady of Lourdes, Rochester, died at Assisi Heights, December 25, 2020.

Janet Kathleen Sieve was born June 18, 1943, in Worthington, to August and Merle (Johnston) Sieve. She entered the Sisters of St. Francis in 1961 and made perpetual vows in 1969. Professional studies included a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from the College of Saint Teresa, Winona, in 1967 and a nursing assistant certificate from Rochester Vocational School, Rochester, MN, in 1978.

Sister Janet was a primary and preschool teacher for nine years at Catholic schools in Glencoe; Chicago, IL; and Langley, SC. In 1974, Sister Janet returned to Rochester and became the driver for the Sisters at Assisi Heights for three years. In 1977, Sr. Janet’s career transitioned to the health care field where she continued showing compassionate service for 29 years at Caledonia Nursing Home in Caledonia, Slayton Nursing Home in Slayton, and the Health Care Center at Assisi Heights. During years when her skills were needed most within her family, she lovingly assisted her parents with their health care at home in Wilmont until their deaths. In 2006, Sr. Janet retired and returned to Assisi Heights in Rochester.

Sister Janet is survived by her Franciscan Sisters, with whom she shared life for 59 years; three brothers, Donald (Yvonne) Sieve, Thomas (Cindy) Sieve, and Douglas (Lynette) Sieve; and nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents.

A private Funeral Mass will be held at Assisi Heights on January 5, 2021, and burial will be at Calvary Cemetery in Rochester.

Memorials are suggested to the Sisters of St. Francis, Office of Mission Advancement, Assisi Heights, 1001 14th St. NW, Rochester, MN 55901.

11

In the Diocese

Sister Charlotte Dusbabek, 90, a Franciscan Sister of the Congregation of Our Lady of Lourdes, Rochester, died at Assisi Heights, December 16, 2020.

Charlotte Rosemary Dusbabek was born July 9, 1930, in Waseca to Henry and Esther (Knish) Dusbabek.

She entered the Sisters of St. Francis in 1953 and made perpetual vows in 1959. Professional studies included a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Marquette U n i v e r s i t y, Milwaukee, WI, 1960, and a master’s degree in nursing service from Catholic University, Washington, DC, in 1962.

Sister Charlotte was instrumental in contributing toward the advancement of health care during the 40 years she was on staff at Saint Marys Hospital. She became the trainer of cardiopulmonary resuscitation technique, organized the first classes in cardiac defibrillation, developed Saint Marys first critical care nurse training program and was head nurse in the first Medical Intensive Care Unit. She also served as a staff nurse, head nurse, psychiatry and cardiovascular in-service instructor. Sister Charlotte also served as an administrative assistant, responsible for coordinating a Nurse Productivity and Quality program for Nursing Service. She retired from nursing at Saint Marys in 1995 and immediately began visiting patients at the hospital as well as working to donate leftover food to nonprofit shelters in Rochester. In 2011, she was the recipient of the Mayo Excellence Award for Community Caring. She believed in giving compassionately in everything she did.

Sister Charlotte is survived by her Franciscan Sisters, with whom she shared life for 67 years; a sister-in-law, Patti (Harold) Dusbabek; three cousins, Carol Sheehy, Bill and Barb Stangler, and Robert and Patsy Culhane; a niece, Deanna Dusbabek; and a nephew, Erik Dusbabek. She was preceded in death by her parents, Henry and Esther Dusbabek; and two brothers, Harold L. Dusbabek and Lawrence Dusbabek.

A private Funeral Mass will be held at Assisi Heights.

Memorials are suggested to the Sisters of St.

Francis, Office of Mission Advancement, Assisi Heights, 1001 14th St. NW, Rochester, MN 55901.

Minnesota Catholic Conference Updates

By MINNESOTA CATHOLIC CONFERENCE STAFF

�ore Minnesota Catholics can attend Mass at a

single time starting Monday, January 11. This change to Governor Tim Walz’s COVID-19 restrictions came after the Minnesota Catholic Conference (MCC) – on behalf of several religious communities – requested the administration remove the 250-person cap on religious gatherings. Masses across the state remain limited to a 50 percent capacity.

MCC recently submitted a letter to the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) Vaccine Allocation Advisory Group outlining principles for vaccine distribution and recommending, among other things, that the elderly and those most vulnerable to COVID19, particularly those in long-term care facilities and their caregivers, have priority access to the vaccines.

The letter reminds MDH that clergy and other direct pastoral care staff come into contact with people each day in multiple settings, and therefore should be considered “essential workers” for the soul and moved ahead in line.

Minnesota’s “Zoom Democracy” Begins

Just before the governor’s announcement updating his COVID-19 restrictions, the legislature began its ninety-second session on January 5. This year starts the “biennium”, or two-year legislative session. As with most things in the COVID-19 era, the rituals normally marking the start of session within the Capitol’s hallowed halls were replaced with a Zoom meeting.

During the first few days of a biennium, newly

elected officials are sworn in and the House and Senate agree upon their rules. This year the House of Representatives added four Catholics to its ranks, while the Senate added six, for a total of 36 Catholics serving in the Legislature.

This year, the DFL-controlled House and GOPcontrolled Senate’s primary job is formulating a budget for the next biennium (fiscal years 2022 & 2023).

Our state constitution requires a balanced budget be sent to the governor by the end of regular session on May 17. If not, a Special Session will be required, and a state government shutdown could occur.

Just as you create your budget, so do legislators.

They assess income vs. expenses, and both must balance out. Budgets are moral documents that reflect the state’s priorities. What are your priorities? Do not hesitate to share them with legislators!

January 2021 w The Courier w dowr.org

Day

by Day

By JEANETTE FORTIER

�he musical Godspell contains a song by

the same title which is sung by the ensemble at the end of the play. It came to mind as I thought about this article.

To see thee more clearly… On the third Sunday of Advent, at the end of Mass, the roses that decorate the altar where given away. I took three and gave one to my niece, one to a neighbor, and the third was given to another neighbor who cried when she received it. She has been praying a novena to St. Therese which speaks of roses. Her name came first into my mind when I was given the flowers and I didn’t know why. Now, I see.

To follow thee more nearly... When we follow Christ, we have a heart that reaches out to those in need and those suffering. One

January 2021 day I was talking with Monica Taylor. She was busy sewing lace on pillowcase dresses for the Haiti Mission. She does so much (as do the residents of Fairway Ridge Apartments) for different charities as well as efforts to keep up the spirits of those in her apartment building.

She received the Rochester Mayor’s Medal of Honor for Elderly/Senior Achievement on December 10, 2020, for her work. It was welldeserved (though not expected) for using the gifts God has given her for others.

To love thee more dearly… One of the greatest joys of receiving cards this past Christmas are those from grandparents with pictures of their children and grandchildren.

The cards remind me of the gift of life and the words from the Rite of Marriage, “that you may live to see your children’s children.” Isn’t it true, the greatest is love!

As 2021 unfolds, the Winona-Rochester Council of Catholic Women extends this wish for you: That you will See Christ clearly.

Follow Christ nearly.

Love Christ dearly.

Day by day.

Jeanette Fortier is the president of the WinonaRochester Diocesan Council of Catholic Women.

• The Courier

The Televised Mass Is Offered Every Sunday Sioux Falls - KTTW Channel 7 at 7 a.m.

Sioux City - KPTH Channel 44 at 8:30 a.m.

Mankato - KEYC Channel 12 at 7:30 a.m.

Digital Channel 12.2 or Charter Channel 19 NEYC at 9:30 a.m.

Digital Channel 7 (DirecTV) or Channel 11 (DISH) KMNF at 9 a.m.

Rochester/Austin/Mason City KIMT Channel 3 at 7:30 a.m.

MyTV 3.2 at 9 a.m.

NEW Twin Cities - WFTC Digital Channel 29 or Channel 9.2 at 11:30 a.m.

Southeastern MN - HBC Channel 20 at 3 p.m. (repeated Wed. at 3:30 p.m.)

Winona/La Crosse/Eau Claire - WLAX/WEUX Channel 25/48 at 7:30 a.m. and on our website, dowr.org (click "Weekly Mass")

On Sunday, November 15, 2020. The St. Mary's Court 208 of the National Foresters held their annual Mass for the living and deceased members at St. Felix Church in Wabasha.

Additionally, Father Glenn Frerichs (left) was

installed as the pastor of St. Felix and St. Agnes parishes. Darlene Wolfe (center) received the Papal Blessing for her 65 year membership to the National Catholic Foresters. Bishop John M. Quinn is pictured right.