The COURIER
Three New PriesTs
�n Friday, June 5, 2026, at the Basilica of St. Stanislaus Kostka in Winona, Bishop Robert Barron ordained three new priests for the Diocese of Winona-Rochester.
Fr. Riley Becher is a Wausau, WI, native who, at the age of five, moved to Rochester, where he attended Pax Christi Parish and Lourdes High School. Fr. Becher has been appointed parochial vicar at St. Mary Parish in Worthington, effective June 15, 2026.
Fr. Cullen Gallagher was raised in his home parish of St. Timothy in Maple Lake, in the Archdiocese of St. Paul & Minneapolis. He has been appointed
parochial vicar at Resurrection Parish in Rochester, and assistant priest chaplain at Lourdes High School in Rochester, effective June 15, 2026.
Fr. Adam Worm was raised in Cologne, in the Archdiocese of St. Paul & Minneapolis. He came to the Diocese of Winona-Rochester as a student at Minnesota State University, Mankato, and entered seminary formation after attending the St. Thomas More Newman Center Parish there. He has been appointed appointed parochial vicar at St. Charles Borromeo Parish in St. Charles and Holy Redeemer Parish in Eyota, and priest chaplain at Lourdes High School in Rochester, effective June 15, 2026.
Called and Sent
Synod Goals Discussed at Diocesan Gathering
By BRIAN KUSEK
�ur diocesan gathering this year was a departure from the familiar “Ministry Days” format, as we opted instead for a more prayerful gathering to discern together a path forward for our diocese, in the spirit of the kind of synodality that our late Holy Father, Pope Francis, initiated. To be clear, this was not meant to be an exercise in redefining doctrines or flattening the hierarchy. Rather, we are trying to change the culture of the local Church by calling all her members to communion and participation; action and accountability.
Bishop Barron mentions over 20 of the Synod’s proposals in his pastoral letter that are easy to apply to local situations. Last month at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, 200 leaders in our diocese discerned what things in the parishes are already happening that can be elevated, perfected, and more intentionally directed toward concrete goals. The Diocese, for its part, offered resources for parishes to utilize over the coming months that directly correlate
Fr. riley Becher, Fr. cullen GallaGher, and Fr. adam Worm ordained
L to R: DOW-R Director of Vocations Fr. Brian Mulligan, Deacon Gabriel Rysavy (ordained May 23), Fr. Adam Worm, Fr. Riley Becher, Bishop Robert Barron, Fr. Cullen Gallagher, St. Paul & Minneapolis Auxiliary Bishop Michael Izen, Rapid City Deacon Todd VanderMay (now a priest). Photo credit: Word on Fire
Pope Leo XIV's Advice to Priests: 'Holiness Cannot Be Lived in Isolation'
By HANNAH BROCKHAUS, EWTN News
VATICAN CITY, June 12, 2026 - The journey toward holiness is fulfilled in union with Christ’s perfect heart - a holiness that cannot be lived in isolation, Pope Leo XIV said in a message for the World Day of Prayer for the Sanctification of Priests.
“Cherish your priestly fraternity: Seek one another, listen to one another, and support one another. The priest who isolates himself slowly fades away; the priest who walks alongside his brothers grows,” the pope said in the June 12 message.
The World Day of Prayer for the Sanctification of Priests takes place every year on the solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, which in 2026 is celebrated on June 12.
The Sacred Heart, Leo said, “is the ‘place’ where holiness is manifested as closeness and tenderness. The priest’s holiness, then, is embodied in humble and courageous nearness, in being all things to all people, and in keeping the gate of the sheepfold open so that many can enter and find pasture and rest.”
“For this reason, we are called to a relationship with God that does not distance us from others but brings us closer to everyone - shaping patient and tender hearts, capable of closeness, compassion, and listening,” he added.
Pope Leo said it is “through the union of our imperfect hearts with Jesus’ pierced heart, our journey toward holiness is fulfilled. It is no longer we who live but Christ who lives in us. Such holiness cannot be lived in isolation.”
Reflecting on the mystery of the Lord’s pierced heart, the Holy Father emphasized that holiness is not an abstract ideal but a share in God’s own holiness.
“When he calls us to be holy as he is holy, he indicates that the path we must follow involves being fashioned after his own heart. And for us, dear brothers, this call is particularly radical,” he said, addressing his fellow priests.
The holiness asked of priests, Leo continued, is of a trustful abandonment transformed by the Holy Spirit: “Yet it is precisely here that the great paradox of our priestly life emerges. We are called to share in God’s own holiness, but we carry this treasure in earthen vessels.”
Reflecting on the imperfect, human side of the priesthood, the pontiff noted that “we are limited and imperfect, often weak and weary, and at times wounded. How can such a vulnerable human heart respond to such a high calling? The priest lives this tension. Yet at the same time, he must recognize that he finds peace in the open side of the Lord Jesus.”
“Our humanity is not compartmentalized,” he said. “Prayer, ministry, relationships, weari-
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Most Reverend Robert E. Barron, Publisher
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ness, joys, and failures - even time or love that apparently seems wasted - all become privileged places where God reveals himself and his infinite love.”
He urged priests to renew the grace of their ordination through the daily celebration of the Eucharist, prayer, meditation on the word of God, and humble service to others.
“A priestly life that is steady and configured to Jesus’ heart is a credible sign of unity, peace, and mercy. Thus, in an age marked by division and fear, we must be builders of peace and witnesses of the tenderness of the Good Shepherd who knows how to gather the scattered and heal the wounded,” he said.
In his message, Pope Leo invited priests to daily renew their “Here I am” before Christ’s pierced heart and to remember the words of the Curé of Ars, St. John Vianney, who loved to say that “the priesthood is the love of the heart of Jesus.”
“This love is a pledge and a guarantee that, if we surrender and offer ourselves completely, nothing of us will be lost,” the pontiff said.
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 507-454-2270, 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 Michael Gerard at 507-361-3377, or mgerard@dowr.org.
The Courier is the official publication of the Diocese of Winona-Rochester 2907
Pope Leo XIV ordains a priest in St. Peter's Basilica on the Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, Friday, June 27, 2025. Credit: Daniel Ibáñez / EWTN News
July Saint Sts. Augustine Zhao Rong and
began a profound transformation. He then discerned a vocation to the priesthood.
Companions
Feast Day: July 9
from EWTN
�ts. Augustine Zhao Rong and companions serve as powerful witnesses to the endurance of Christians in China. They suffered for centuries under hardship and persecution. This group of 120 martyrs includes clergy, religious, and laypeople. These men, women, and even children gave their lives for Christ between the mid-17th and early 20th centuries.
At the center of this group stands Augustine Zhao Rong, a former Chinese soldier. He became the first native-born Chinese priest martyred for the Christian faith. His journey to faith began while he guarded an imprisoned missionary bishop. Moved by the bishop’s serenity and courage, he converted to Christianity and was baptized. This conversion
The Holy Father's Intention for July 2026
For Respect for Human Life
Let us pray for the respect and protection of human life in all its stages, recognizing it as a gift from God.
gatherings are not all work. After the Monday night banquet, The Froilands, a family band from Stewartville, MN, entertain the Ministry Days gathering with a sparkling combination of Bluegrass music and comedy. [Photo by Ivan Kubista]
Reprinted from July 2001.
As a priest, Augustine served the faithful during a time when Christianity was often viewed with suspicion and hostility by authorities. Periodic waves of persecution placed immense pressure on believers. They risked imprisonment, torture, and death for their faith. Despite these dangers, Augustine remained steadfast in his ministry until he was arrested, imprisoned, and martyred around 1815. During his ministry, he converted many people to Christianity.
The companions honored with him include both Chinese faithful and foreign missionaries serving in China. Among them were bishops, priests, religious sisters, catechists, and entire families. They chose fidelity to Christ over safety. Their stories reflect a Church that endured sacrifice with courage and an unwavering trust in God.
Canonized by Pope St. John Paul II in 2000, St. Augustine and his companions represent the Church’s universality and fidelity to Christ across cul tures.
Who Were Some of St. Augustine Zhao Rong's Companions?
The 119 companions include a wide range of indi viduals from diverse back grounds and vocations. Among them were European missionar ies from religious orders, such as Franciscans, Dominicans, and Jesuits. They traveled to China to spread the Gospel. They were Chinese bish ops, priests, seminari ans, catechists, and lay faithful. Included was Bishop John Gabriel Taurin Dufresse, the French missionary
who converted Augustine Zhao Rong, and Francis Ferdinand de Capillas, a Dominican priest. He was China’s first martyr, killed in 1648. They were courageous and steadfast, like Chi Zhuzia, an 18-year-old who refused to renounce his faith even after his arm was cut off.
This group included farmers, teachers, cooks, and children from across China who refused to apostatize. Some were entire families, including parents and children, who chose to remain faithful despite persecution. This diversity reflects the Church’s universal nature. It shows how people of all ages and walks of life shared in the same courageous witness to Christ. The group represents three centuries of martyrs in China to 1930.
What Historical Events Contributed
to the Persecution of Christians in
China?
Persecution of Christians in China occurred during several distinct periods, often influenced by political and cultural tensions. Christianity was sometimes viewed as a foreign religion associated with Western influence. This led to suspicion and resistance from authorities. Periods such as the suppression of Christianity under various imperial edicts and later during events like the Boxer Rebellion (1899–1901) intensified hostility toward Christians. During these times, both foreign missionaries and Chinese converts were targeted. They faced imprisonment, torture, and execution for their faith.
Members of St. Paul's Parish, Minnesota City, reenact the presentation of the Declaration of Independence to the president of the Continental Congress. Portraying the men who drafted the declaration are, from left: William Saehler as Roger Sherman, Donald Tlougan as Thomas Jefferson, Vernon Gallagher as John Adams, Donald Evanson as George Washington, Gerald Cisewski as Benjamin Franklin and Ed Butenhoff Jr. as Robert R. Livingston. [Photo by Fr. Joseph Frisch] Reprinted from July 9, 1976.
His Excellency, the Most Rev. E. A. Fitzgerald, D.D., LL.D., Bishop of Winona, will bless the cornerstone for the new Holy Family Church of Lake Crystal on Sunday, July 22nd, at 2:00 p.m. A. J. Ross & Associates of Mankato are the architects. General Contractor for the new church and rectory is Delmar Fanning of Madelia. Stone work interior and exterior is rapidly reaching completion by John Juberian & Co. of Mankato. [...]
Reprinted from July 22, 1951.
Diocesan
Lessons Drawn from Forty Years of Priesthood
The following is adapted from Bishop Barron’s homily for this year’s presbyteral ordination.
� hough it seems utterly astonishing to me, this past May I celebrated 40 years of priesthood. I was ordained in Holy Name Cathedral in Chicago by Joseph Cardinal Bernardin on May 24, 1986. The years have gone by in the blink of an eye. But my anniversary has prompted me to think and reflect on the many years of my priesthood and what I have learned. I thought I could share some of this (I hope) wisdom with the young men who are sitting before me today on the day of their ordination.
Officials
The Most Rev. Robert Barron, Bishop of the Diocese of WinonaRochester, announces the following:
Faculties
Rev. Mariano Ruiz, IVE: a priest of the Institute of the Incarnate Word; granted faculties in the Diocese of Winona-Rochester, effective May 8, 2026.
Deacon Jeff Kosidowski: a deacon of the Diocese of Orange; granted stable faculties in the Diocese of Winona-Rochester, effective June 16, 2026.
Deacon Robert Penzenstadler: a deacon of the Diocese of Green Bay; granted stable faculties in the Diocese of Winona-Rochester, effective June 16, 2026.
Parochial Administrator
Rev. Timothy Hall: appointed Parochial Administrator of St. Casimir Parish in Wells, Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish in Easton, and St. John the Baptist Parish in Minnesota Lake, effective July 1, 2026.
Parochial Vicar
Rev. Riley Becher: ordained a priest for the Diocese of WinonaRochester on June 5, 2026; appointed Parochial Vicar at St. Mary Parish in Worthington, effective June 15, 2026.
Rev. Cullen Gallagher: ordained a priest for the Diocese of Winona-Rochester on June 5, 2026; appointed Parochial
Here's a first lesson: stay close to good mentors. It was a singular blessing of my priesthood that I had, in those earliest years, some wonderful mentors. I think of Fr. Larry Kelly, my diaconate supervisor, who embodied joyful priesthood and who told me, "Kiddo, Sunday is your day; that's the day the people come."
I think of Fr. Joe Kinane, the pastor of my first assignment. Fr. Joe was something of a pastoral genius, who knew how to build a community around the love of Christ.
I think especially of Msgr. Bill Quinn, a student of the great Msgr. Reynold Hillendbrand, very involved in the social ministry of the Church, in attendance during Vatican II. One of the great graces of my priesthood were conversations with Msgr. Bill when I was newly ordained. Second, stay close to the poor. We recall the words whispered to Pope Francis just after his election: "Don't forget the poor." We know the Church, for the past 75 years, has insisted upon a preferential
Vicar at Resurrection Parish in Rochester, effective June 15, 2026.
Rev. Adam Worm: ordained a priest for the Diocese of WinonaRochester on June 5, 2026; appointed Parochial Vicar at St. Charles Borromeo Parish in St. Charles and Holy Redeemer Parish in Eyota, effective June 15, 2026.
Chaplain
Rev. Cullen Gallagher: appointed Assistant Priest Chaplain at Lourdes High School in Rochester, effective June 15, 2026.
Rev. Adam Worm: appointed Priest Chaplain at Lourdes High School in Rochester, effective June 15, 2026.
Diaconal Ministry
Deacon Kevin Aaker: reappointed to a six-year term of diaconal ministry at St. Catherine Parish in Luverne and St. Leo Parish in Pipestone, effective July 1, 2026.
Deacon Scot Berkley: reappointed to a six-year term of diaconal ministry at Sacred Heart Parish in Owatonna, effective July 1, 2026.
Deacon Frank Cesario: reappointed to a six-year term of diaconal ministry at Sts. Peter and Paul Parish in Mankato, effective July 1, 2026.
Deacon Patrick Fagan: reappointed to a six-year term of
option for the poor. Friends of John Paul II were asked what was the secret to his spirituality and they responded, "his poverty, which kept him close to the poor."
I would put it this way: wherever I or my successors assign you, find where the poor are and go to them. This does not mean simply the economically poor. It means those most in need. I always liked Pope Francis' encouragement to go to those on the "existential margins," which is to say, those who are bereft of meaning and purpose. Have a missionary instinct for the poor.
Johnny Cash always sought out the person in the room who seemed most alone, most overlooked. This is a good instinct for a priest too.
A third lesson is stay close to the fire. You will make a promise today to be men of prayer and you will concretize this as a commitment to pray, every day for the rest of your life, the Liturgy of the Hours. This is not a burden; it's a lifeline. Your priesthood, I
diaconal ministry at St. Pius X Parish in Rochester, effective July 1, 2026.
Deacon Randy Horlocker: reappointed to a six-year term of diaconal ministry at the Co-Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist in Rochester, effective July 1, 2026.
Deacon William Keiper: reappointed to a six-year term of diaconal ministry at St. Mary Parish in Winona, effective July 1, 2026.
Deacon Jeff Kosidowski: a deacon of the Diocese of Orange; appointed to a six-year term of diaconal ministry at the Basilica of St. Stanislaus Kostka and the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, both in Winona, effective June 6, 2026.
Deacon Steven Landsteiner: reappointed to a six-year term of diaconal ministry at St. John Vianney Parish in Fairmont and Sts. Peter and Paul Parish in Blue Earth, effective July 1, 2026.
Deacon John LaValla: reappointed to a six-year term of diaconal ministry at St. Charles Borromeo Parish in St. Charles and Holy Redeemer Parish in Eyota, effective July 1, 2026.
Rev. Mr. Gabriel Rysavy: ordained a transitional deacon for the Diocese of WinonaRochester on May 23, 2026; appointed to diaconal ministry at St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Rochester, effective May 24,
guarantee you, will be filled with painful and difficult times. What will sustain you through them? One thing: prayer. In season and out, when you feel like it and when you don't, when your faith is particularly strong and when it's wavering, when you are successful and when you are unsuccessful, when you are busy and when you are on vacation - pray!
The Liturgy of the Hours, yes, but also, of course, the Mass, the rosary, other forms of devotion. Pray quietly by yourself; pray with others; lead prayer; enter with passion into the administration of the sacraments. Pray unceasingly, as St. Paul said.
I have found in the course of my 40 years of priesthood that prayer has become increasingly important to me - and easier, frankly. Make the Holy Hour a non-negotiable in your life, especially in this year of Fulton Sheen's beatification. And not just prayer, but also study. You will be preaching and teaching for the rest of your life. Part of your identity is
2026, through the coming school year.
Deacon Scott Schwalbe: reappointed to a six-year term of diaconal ministry at St. Joachim Parish in Plainview and Immaculate Conception Parish in Kellogg, effective July 1, 2026.
Deacon Paul Tschann: reappointed to a six-year term of diaconal ministry at Sts. Peter and Paul Parish in Mazeppa, effective July 1, 2026.
Pension Plan for Priests
Mr. Andrew Kieffer: reappointed to a three-year term on the Diocese of Winona-Rochester Pension Plan for Priests Board of Trustees, effective July 1, 2026.
Mr. Tim Scanlon: reappointed to a three-year term on the Diocese of Winona-Rochester Pension Plan for Priests Board of Trustees, effective July 1, 2026.
Catholic Schools
Mrs. Courtney Anderson: appointed to a three-year term on the Loyola Catholic School Board of Trustees, effective July 1, 2026.
Mr. David Endres: appointed to a three-year term on the Loyola Catholic School Board of Trustees, effective July 1, 2026.
Mrs. Emily Holm: appointed to a three-year term on the Loyola Catholic School Board of Trustees, effective July 1, 2026.
prophet, speaker of the divine truth. So you must be a reader for the rest of your life. Have a book of serious theology next to your bed always. And you have no excuse, as so many materials are available through the internet and through Amazon. Subscribe to serious theological journals. Have a go-to theologian. Simple question: would you trust a doctor who hasn't read a thing in his field since medical school? I wouldn't. And you are being ordained to be a doctor of souls.
*indicates event open to public
July 12, Sunday
Steubenville Conference Closing Mass - Mayo Civic Center, Rochester
July 13, Monday
Serra Club Clergy Golf OutingRochester
July 16, Thursday
11:00 a.m. - University Series Board Meeting - Zoom Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem Bishop's Dinner - Co-Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist, Rochester
July 18, Saturday
*5:00 p.m. - Candidacy Mass for Seminarians Stephen Ferrazzano, Jacob Fiala, Samuel Miron, Michael Rahm, and Timothy Zappa - St. Luke, Sherburn
July 19, Sunday
*8:30 a.m. - Parish Anniversary Mass - St. Ann, Janesville
July 28, Tuesday
Camp Summit Mass - Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center, Lanesboro
Non Nisi Te Domine
Bishop Robert Barron
Bishop's Calendar
Priesthood, cont'd on pg. 5
Priesthood, cont'd from pg. 4
Finally, stay close to your bishop . What I'm talking about is obedience, and the spiritual freedom that it gives. When you place your hands in mine in a few minutes and promise obedience to me and my successors, you are giving up your "career," which is to say, the vision for your life that you have, and your plans and projects.
Now I know better than anyone else in this room how flawed, imperfect, and sinful a bishop can be. I don't think bishops are flawless vessels of grace. However, in the theology of the Church, bishops are vehicles through which the Holy Spirit works. Somehow, and often writing straight with crooked lines, the Holy Spirit operates through the authorities in the Church.
The best example of this in my own life was the pivot that Cardinal George compelled me to make when I was in my early forties. Saying no to the path that I wanted and envisioned for myself opened up my life in marvelous and extraordinary ways. So the lesson is: trust the Holy Spirit and be obedient to your bishop.
It is our conviction today, brothers, that the Lord has chosen you, precisely to be close to him and to continue his great work. "You are a priest forever according to the line of Melchizedek." Your priesthood is not a function, not a task, not a job. It is your deepest identity. It belongs to your very being.
And so, from the depths of your souls today, I want you to say with the prophet Isaiah: "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me!"
Lecciones extraídas de cuarenta años de sacerdocio 5
por EL OBISPO ROBERT BARRON
El siguiente texto es una adaptación de la homilía del obispo Barron con motivo de la ordenación presbiteral de este año.
�unque me parece absolutamente asombroso, el pasado mes de mayo celebré mis 40 años de sacerdocio. Fui ordenado en la Catedral del Santo Nombre de Chicago por el cardenal Joseph Bernardin el 24 de mayo de 1986. Los años han pasado en un abrir y cerrar de ojos. Pero este aniversario me ha llevado a pensar y reflexionar sobre los muchos años de mi sacerdocio y sobre lo que he aprendido. He pensado que podría compartir algo de esta (espero) sabiduría con los jóvenes que hoy se encuentran sentados ante mí, el día de su ordenación.
He aquí una primera lección: manténganse cerca de buenos mentores. Fue una bendición única de mi sacerdocio haber contado, en aquellos primeros años, con unos mentores maravillosos. Pienso en el P. Larry Kelly, mi supervisor durante el diaconado, que encarnaba el sacerdocio alegre y que me decía: «Muchacho, el domingo es tu día; ese es el día en que viene la gente». Pienso en el padre Joe Kinane, el párroco de mi primera asignación. El padre Joe era una especie de genio pastoral, que sabía cómo construir una comunidad en torno al amor de Cristo.
Pienso especialmente en monseñor Bill Quinn, discípulo del gran monseñor Reynold Hillendbrand, muy comprometido con la pastoral social de la Iglesia y que asistió al Concilio
Vaticano II. Una de las grandes bendiciones de mi sacerdocio fueron las conversaciones que mantuve con monseñor Bill cuando acababa de ser ordenado.
En segundo lugar, permanezcan cerca de los pobres Recordamos las palabras que le susurraron al papa Francisco justo después de su elección: «No te olvides de los pobres». Sabemos que la Iglesia, durante los últimos 75 años, ha insistido en la opción preferencial por los pobres. A los amigos de Juan Pablo II se les preguntó cuál era el secreto de su espiritualidad y respondieron: «Su pobreza, que le mantenía cerca de los pobres».
Yo lo expresaría así: dondequiera que yo o mis sucesores los asignemos, busquen dónde están los pobres y vayan hacia ellos. Esto no se refiere simplemente a los pobres en términos económicos. Se refiere a los más necesitados. Siempre me ha gustado el estímulo del papa Francisco de acudir a quienes se encuentran en los «márgenes existenciales», es decir, a quienes carecen de sentido y propósito. Tengan un instinto misionero hacia los pobres.
Johnny Cash siempre buscaba en la sala a la persona que parecía más sola, más ignorada. Este es también un buen instinto para un sacerdote.
Una tercera lección es que se mantengan cerca del fuego. Hoy harán la promesa de ser hombres de oración y la plasmarán en el compromiso de rezar, cada día durante el resto de sus vidas, la Liturgia de las Horas. Esto no es una carga; es un salvavidas. Les garantizo que su sacerdocio estará
lleno de momentos dolorosos y difíciles. ¿Qué los sostendrá en esos momentos? Una sola cosa: la oración. En las buenas y en las malas, cuando les parezca y cuando no, cuando su fe sea especialmente fuerte y cuando vacile, cuando tengan éxito y cuando fracasen, cuando estén ocupados y cuando estén de vacaciones… ¡oren! La Liturgia de las Horas, sí, pero también, por supuesto, la misa, el rosario y otras formas de devoción. Recen en silencio a solas; recen con otros; dirijan la oración; dedíquense con pasión a la administración de los sacramentos. Recen sin cesar, como dijo san Pablo.
A lo largo de mis cuarenta años de sacerdocio, he descubierto que la oración se ha vuelto cada vez más importante para mí y, francamente, más fácil. Hagan de la Hora Santa algo innegociable en sus vidas, especialmente en este año de la beatificación de Fulton Sheen. Y no solo la oración, sino también el estudio. Predicarán y enseñarán durante el resto de sus vidas. Parte de su identidad es la de profeta, portador de la verdad divina. Por eso deben ser un lector durante el resto de sus vidas. Tengan siempre un libro de teología seria junto a su cama. Y no tienen excusa, ya que hay muchísimos materiales disponibles a través de Internet y de Amazon. Suscríbanse a revistas teológicas serias. Tengan un teólogo de referencia. Una pregunta sencilla: ¿confiarían en un médico que no haya leído nada sobre su especialidad desde que terminó la carrera de medicina?
Yo no lo haría. Y a ustedes los van a ordenar para que sean un médico de las almas.
Por último, manténganse cerca de su obispo. A lo que me refiero es a la obediencia y a la libertad espiritual que esto proporciona. Cuando, dentro de unos minutos, pongan sus manos en las mías y prometan obediencia a mí y a mis sucesores, estarán renunciando a su «carrera», es decir, a la visión que tienen de su vida, así como a sus planes y proyectos.
Ahora sé mejor que nadie en esta sala lo defectuoso, imperfecto y pecador que puede ser un obispo. No creo que los obispos sean vasos de gracia impecables. Sin embargo, en la teología de la Iglesia, los obispos son instrumentos a través de los cuales obra el Espíritu Santo. De alguna manera, y a menudo escribiendo recto con líneas torcidas, el Espíritu Santo actúa a través de las autoridades de la Iglesia.
El mejor ejemplo de esto en mi propia vida fue el giro radical que el cardenal George me obligó a dar cuando tenía poco más de cuarenta años. Decir «no» al camino que yo quería y había imaginado para mí mismo abrió mi vida de maneras maravillosas y extraordinarias. Así pues, la lección es: confía en el Espíritu Santo y sé obediente a tu obispo.
Hoy estamos convencidos, hermanos, de que el Señor los ha elegido precisamente para estar cerca de Él y continuar su gran obra. «Tú eres sacerdote para siempre según el orden de Melquisedec». Su sacerdocio no es una función, ni una tarea, ni un trabajo. Es su identidad más profunda. Pertenece a su mismo ser.
Y por eso, desde lo más profundo de sus almas, quiero que digan hoy, con el profeta Isaías: «¡El Espíritu del Señor está sobre mí!»
On June 6, Bi�h�p B�rr�n met with Totus Tuus missionaries at the Chancery in Rochester for Mass in Mary, Mother of the Eucharist Chapel, a Chancery tour, and lunch, before the missionaries set out on their summer of serving youth in parishes across the Diocese of Winona-Rochester (pictured L).
The Nex� D�y, June 7, he joined parishioners of Rochester's Church of the Resurrection for a Corpus Christi Eucharistic Procession (pictured R).
Photos by LEANDRA HUBKA, assistant to Bishop Barron.
to the Bishop’s five priorities. These priorities and corresponding resources are listed below for your reference. All are invited to make full use of these offerings, and to rely on diocesan staff to accompany you in their implementation.
Bring One Person Back to Mass
Our staff has worked hard to make updates to the diocesan website. Several new features make it easier to witness to the faith in the digital sphere. First, a domestic church toolkit offers ideas for families to bring Christ into their homes, to make their faith visible to friends and neighbors in an attractive way. Second, various modules are being created to help parish leaders discern how to bring
in experienced facilitators to do evangelization training or mission reorientation. Most importantly, an interactive map of our diocese offers a view of Mass, adoration, and confession times for all parishes.
More to the point, Bishop’s challenge the last few years has been for each Catholic in the diocese to bring one person back to Mass. The Eucharistic Revival developed a wonderful turn-key resource called “Walk-With-One” that serves as a guide to seek after those who have fallen away. As His Excellency reminds us often, start with the lowhanging fruit. Doubtless we all know someone in our family or close circle of friends who was practicing at one time, but has just let other priorities get in the way. Make a conscious effort to put Christ
at the center of those relationships and accompany them back into full, conscious, and active participation at their parish.
Beautiful Liturgical Celebrations
The Diocese has been working with various committees and consultative bodies to develop a Guild for the Arts, as well as a Parish Environment Toolkit. Archbishop Cordileone has started the Reverent Liturgy Project to inspire and equip “priests (as well as deacons, seminarians, and music directors) to offer classically Catholic worship to the faithful in ways that unify rather than disrupt ordinary parishes.” Source and Summit is an affordable, user-friendly online platform that allows musicians and liturgy coordinators to plan liturgical music using theologically sound hymns and antiphons. You can also upload your parish’s current music into the system and design custom worship aids.
Invite Men to Consider the Priesthood
The Office of Vocations is working hard to develop two unique opportunities to help men discern the priesthood, in addition to the existing “Come & See Weekends.” First, we’re planning a diocesan event with prayer, speakers, and fraternity that will be open to all men, regardless of how seriously they are taking into consideration a call to the priesthood. This will serve as a spring-board into smaller, local meetings known as Andrew Dinners, where men can have more pointed conversation about their discernment and meet others who are considering entering seminary.
Vocations Prayer
The Bishop wrote a prayer for vocations and he has asked that it be said at every Sunday Mass. You can find the prayer on the diocesan website and print it custom for your parish, or order more prayer cards from the diocese.
Eucharistic Adoration
Adoration means a lot of different things. Praying in front of the tabernacle is a great way to adore our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament. But there’s something to be said about the liturgical act of Exposition and Benediction. To see Jesus in the Flesh is a much different experience than praying to him behind closed doors. The faithful consistently and repeatedly asked for this kind of adoration throughout the Synod preparation period. It would behoove us to ensure that there are “frequent, consistent, and regionally accessible opportunities for Eucharistic Adoration.” To that end, we’ve partnered with the Adoratio Foundation to launch a campaign to increase these sorts of opportunities, most especially perpetual adoration.
All of these resources are available at www. dowr.org/synod-implementation, with additional materials forthcoming.
Please know that chancery staff stand ready to support and accompany you in implementing these initiatives. With God’s grace, these efforts will bear lasting fruit for our diocese.
Brian Kusek is the director of evangelization for the Diocese of Winona-Rochester.
With Gratitude and Joy Religious Sisters of Mercy Celebrate Completion
By NICOLE WENINGER and SISTER MARY MICAELA HOFFMANN, RSM
�he completion of the new addition at Immaculate Heart Seminary and convent has been a joyful milestone for the Religious Sisters of Mercy, the seminarians, and the many faithful supporters who helped make the project possible. After months of construction, prayer, and anticipation, the new spaces are already fostering community life, hospitality, and spiritual growth. From the final touches of construction to the laughter shared at the open house and a blessing bestowed on the Religious Sisters of Mercy and the new spaces by Bishop Barron, the project’s completion was marked by deep gratitude and celebration.
The construction crews have finished the last interior details, including trim work, paint touch-ups, a row of tile work, and a final deep cleaning. Some of the last steps outside were pouring sidewalks to the new seminary-side entrances and re-installing the basketball hoop in the driveway area - which almost immediately was put to use by seminarians enjoying nice weather during the last weeks of the semester!
On Saturday, April 25, more than 100 people stopped by for the open house celebrating the completion of the addition to the convent. Benefactors, seminary faculty, seminarians, families from Winona and the surrounding area, Saint Mary’s University students, and other friends of the Immaculate Heart Seminary and the Religious Sisters of Mercy came through for tours, conversation, and homemade cookies prepared by the Sisters. A serious game of kickball took place between a team of young people and a team of seminarians. The Sisters were informed that the seminarians were defeated!
During the afternoon, the rector of the seminary, Fr. Jason Kern, offered a blessing for the Sisters and all who would use the space. The Sisters sang
U.S. Bishops Approve Advancing Cause of MN Missionary Priest Joseph Buh
By GIGI DUNCAN, EWTN News
ORLANDO, FL, June 10, 2026 - The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) voted June 10 to support advancing the cause of beatification and canonization for Monsignor Joseph Buh, a Slovenian-born missionary priest who spent more than half a century ministering in northern Minnesota.
The vote took place during the bishops’ plenary assembly in Orlando, Florida, after Duluth Bishop Daniel J. Felton asked members to consider whether it was advisable to advance the cause on the local level.
The bishops also approved advancing the cause of sainthood for John Rick Miller, a layman and international missionary known as the “ambassador of the Virgin Mary.”
Presenting the request to his fellow bishops, Felton described Buh as “a remarkable example of missionary discipleship” whose “love for Christ and
of Convent Expansion
a version of the Suscipe prayer of their foundress, Venerable Catherine McAuley, in gratitude and shared a video about the community and its mission.
Bishop Robert Barron visited the following Friday to bless the new spaces in both the convent and seminary workshop sections of the addition, which all received a generous splash of holy water! Bishop Barron also incensed and blessed the Stations of the Cross in the convent chapel and signed a decree officially erecting them and granting all the usual indulgences that go along with praying the Stations. His visit was a joyful way to mark the completion of the project and all who made it possible.
The Religious Sisters of Mercy are very grateful for the beauty and space of the new addition, and for the opportunities to welcome guests and the expansion of their community life that it will bring. They extend a special thanks to all the benefactors who contributed to the convent campaign and continue to remember benefactors and their intentions in their prayers.
As the Sisters continue settling into the new addition and welcoming guests into the completed
the Church led him to leave his homeland of Slovenia and dedicate his life to the people of northeastern Minnesota.”
“His story remains profoundly relevant for the Church today,” Felton said. “For we live in a missionary age.”
The action marks another step in a process that has been developing in the Diocese of Duluth for several years. In 2024, the diocese began formally exploring whether Buh’s cause should move forward, consulting clergy and the faithful about devotion to the priest and his reputation for holiness.
Buh was born in 1833 in what is now Slovenia and was ordained in 1858. After emigrating to the United States, he became one of the most influential Catholic missionaries in northern Minnesota during a period of rapid immigration and settlement.
Known for extensive travels across the regionoften by horseback over long distances and difficult terrain - Buh ministered to immigrant mining communities and Native American settlements at a time when priests could spend weeks or months covering a single mission circuit. He helped establish more than 50 parishes and missions and later served as vicar general of the Diocese of Duluth.
Felton said Buh anticipated key elements of modern Catholic teaching on evangelization.
“He immersed himself in the communities that he served. He learned their languages, understood
space, one final element of the project remains: the installation of a commemorative plaque honoring the many benefactors who made the expansion possible through gifts of $1,000 or more. The plaque will serve as a lasting reminder of the generosity, prayers, and support that helped bring the project to completion. The Religious Sisters of Mercy remain deeply grateful for all who contributed to this effort and pray that God abundantly bless all those who helped make this new home for prayer, community, and hospitality possible.
We are no longer collecting donations for the Heart of Mary Convent Campaign, but please visit the Religious Sisters of Mercy website at almamercy. org to support their religious community, or for more information about their life and mission within the Church.
Nicole Weninger is the donor relations and marketing coordinator for Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary in Winona.
Sister Mary Micaela Hoffmann is a Religious Sister of Mercy of Alma, MI, living in Winona.
their customs and struggles and, most importantly, learned the language of their hearts,” Felton said.
Buh spoke six languages, including Ojibwe, an Algonquian language, which Felton said he learned so that he could “faithfully serve and evangelize the Indigenous communities.”
He added that Buh’s pastoral method was rooted in presence and listening.
“He began by listening after learning their language, their story, and their needs,” Felton said. “His example reminds us that evangelization begins with presence, listening, and genuine love for the people entrusted to our care.”
The proposal brought before the bishops follows several years of preparatory work in the Diocese of Duluth. In October 2023, Felton appointed Father Richard Kunst to help evaluate whether sufficient devotion to Buh existed among the faithful to warrant moving forward with a cause.
‘A True Spiritual Father’
Although Buh died in 1922, interest in his life has persisted within the Diocese of Duluth. Advocates of the cause point to both his missionary work and the reputation for sanctity that followed him during his lifetime and after his death.
We Are Blessed!
Strengthen Your Marriage, Save the World!
By PETER MARTIN
�
hen I was a kid, our pastor gave a homily that I always loved. Maybe it was because it was so relatable to me as a child or maybe it was because it was so perfectly simple. All I know is that I’ll never forget it and that’s pretty high marks for anyone delivering a homily! It goes like this: “One Sunday afternoon a father was trying to relax on his armchair while reading the Sunday paper, but his five-year-old kept bothering him to play. The dad had already given him the comics, but it didn’t take long for him to get through those and he was back again bugging his dad to play with him. The dad, trying to get just a few more minutes of rest to get through the paper, eyed a large
advertisement of the world and said: ‘OK, son, I have a game for you to play.’ He proceeded to tear the page into little pieces and gave them to his son. ‘Here, I have a puzzle for you. Go get the tape and put this puzzle together. It’s a picture of the whole world.’ Dad went back peacefully to his paper knowing that it’d take the child forever to solve that puzzle. Less than five minutes later, the boy proudly held up the picture of the globe all taped back together. ‘Now can we play, dad?’ The father was dumbfounded and said, ‘did you get your mother to help you? How on earth did you solve that puzzle so quickly?’ The boy said: ‘Oh Dad, it was easy! As you were tearing the page, I noticed there was a picture of a family on the back. Once I put the family back together, the world was all in place!’"
It seems arrogant to try to add to such an amazing homily, but I will risk it and add one thing: if you strengthen your marriage, you will save the world! My wife Theresa and I have started a podcast that aims at helping people strengthen their marriage. Love that Lasts is a podcast where for just a halfhour a week, Theresa and I talk about different ways to assist you and your spouse in deepening the love you professed on your wedding day. We’d be delighted if you would join us! https://www.wojtylaci.com/ love-that-lasts
Peter Martin is the director of life, marriage & family for the Diocese of Winona-Rochester.
Stewardship Requires Accountability
By BREANNE SCHEID
�
ne of the most common challenges we encounter when providing bookkeeping and financial services to parishes is not a lack of goodwill, but rather a resistance to the systems and documentation required to ensure proper stewardship.
The reality is that financial accountability is not optional. Every parish has an obligation to its parishioners, its pastor, its finance council, and ultimately the Church, to maintain accurate records and follow established policies. While these requirements can sometimes feel burdensome, they exist to protect everyone involved.
Documentation Is Not Distrust
A frequent source of frustration occurs when staff members are asked to provide receipts, invoices, approval forms, or supporting documentation for
My n�me i� BreAnne Scheid, and I live on a farm outside of Easton with my husband Nate and our four children.
I’m the owner of Veritas Financial Solutions , a business dedicated to helping Catholic parishes, schools, and cemeteries strengthen their financial management and stewardship.
In addition to my work with Veritas, I also write articles on my LinkedIn page that highlight the bookkeeping and accounting topics I most often see within our parishes. My goal is to make these articles both educational and relatablesometimes even adding a little humor to the dayto-day realities of parish financial life.
How Dare We?
By DEACON ROBERT T. YERHOT, MSW
�esus often would say to his disciples, “Peace be with you. Do not fear!” Saint John Paul II would later famously declare, “Do not be afraid! Open wide the doors to Christ!” Perhaps we can ask ourselves what role fear plays in our lives. How pervasive has fear become, not only within us as individuals, but also in society? What are the effects of fear?
Some say that fear is the activator of all the vices and sins of life. For example, we fear not having enough, so we steal. We fear loneliness, so we commit adultery. We fear the future, so we become angry, stingy and uncharitable. We fear getting caught, so we lie. We can see this in our own personal lives, and in society. Why else are we fighting wars, accumulating wealth in the hands of a few, ignoring the poor, ending the lives of the unborn and the terminally ill, and destroying our environment? Indeed, we are a fearful people and a fearful nation.
If fear is the activator of the vices, then faith gives rise to all the virtues. For example, we believe that all things work according to God’s plan, so we are hopeful. We believe in God’s benevolence, so we are generous. We believe that all truth comes from God, so we are honest.
expenses. Requests for documentation are sometimes perceived as a lack of trust. In reality, documentation is simply a fundamental component of sound accounting practices.
Without proper records, bookkeepers cannot accurately classify expenses, auditors cannot verify transactions, and parish leadership cannot confidently attest that funds have been used appropriately. Documentation protects the employee making the purchase just as much as it protects the parish.
Good intentions alone cannot replace proper records.
The Hidden Cost of Sales Tax
Another common issue involves parishioners or staff members purchasing items on behalf of the parish and expecting reimbursement for the full amount, including sales tax.
Most parishes qualify for sales tax exemption on eligible purchases. When an individual chooses to make a purchase without utilizing the parish's taxexempt status, the resulting sales tax becomes an unnecessary expense to the parish.
While every situation should be reviewed individually and with pastoral sensitivity, parish funds should not routinely absorb avoidable sales tax costs. A few dollars here and there may seem insignificant, but over the course of a year, these unnecessary expenses can accumulate into hundreds or even thousands of dollars that could have been directed toward ministry, maintenance, or charitable outreach.
Proper purchasing procedures help ensure parish resources are used as efficiently as possible.
Leadership Includes Difficult Conversations
Financial stewardship is not solely the responsibility of bookkeepers or finance councils. Pastors play a critical leadership role as well.
Many priests entered ministry because they feel
Look around you. What do you notice? To whom do you pay attention? What’s there? Who is there? Here are a few I have seen around me: a lonely woman in a lawn chair, a bearded disheveled man in front of his dilapidated house, a frail woman whose utilities were cut off, and a tearful lonely woman in a nursing home. What do we feel when we see these men and women? Too often it is fear. We become afraid of them, distance ourselves from them, and disregard them because of our misplaced faith.
Yes, our fear arises from misplaced faith in the material world, a faith taken from God and given to temporal things. The result is sin, vice, and violence which can be seen in our resorting to war, killing those we dislike and fear, abandoning the elderly ill, killing the unborn, and decreased respect for human life and dignity. In our fear, we hide behind welladorned buildings, magnificent churches, and secure homes thinking we are pleasing God.
Recently, I witnessed this in real time. A homeless inebriated man approached one of our church buildings seeking assistance. What happened? He was told to leave. Those to whom he had turned were afraid of him, afraid of the dissonance between the appearance of the man and the outward beauty of the church building, the dissonance between the neediness of the man and the wealth of the fearful people he approached. I was taken aback. I was angry. How dare we spend so many millions
called to serve God's people, celebrate the sacraments, and provide spiritual guidance. Human resource management and personnel issues often receive far less attention in seminary formation. As a result, addressing performance concerns, enforcing policies, or managing conflict can be uncomfortable. However, avoiding difficult conversations does not eliminate problems. In many cases, it allows them to grow.
When policies are not enforced consistently, when repeated documentation requests are ignored, or when employees are permitted to operate outside established procedures, the financial health of the parish can suffer. More importantly, inconsistency can create confusion, resentment, and unequal treatment among staff members.
Effective leadership requires both compassion and accountability. These qualities are not in opposition to one another. In fact, healthy organizations require both.
Stewardship Is a Shared Responsibility
Successful parish administration depends upon collaboration among pastors, staff, finance councils, volunteers, and professional financial personnel. Each group has a role to play.
Bookkeepers should not be viewed as obstacles to ministry when they request documentation or enforce policy. Rather, they serve as stewards of the resources entrusted to the parish by its faithful supporters.
Financial controls, tax compliance, and personnel accountability are not barriers to the mission of the Church. They are tools that help ensure that parish resources remain focused on that mission for generations to come.
Good stewardship is not merely about balancing the books. It is about honoring the trust placed in us by those who sacrifice to support the work of the Church.
of dollars on magnificent buildings purportedly for God’s honor and glory, yet turn away the poor? How dare we, I repeat? How have we let fear so dominate our lives? We must repent!
As St John the Apostle reminds us, we cannot claim to know Christ if we do not follow his commandments. His commandments include loving God above all and our neighbor as ourselves. We do not know Christ if we do not recognize him in the face of the poor. Each poor man is a face of Christ. It is Christ who approaches us in disguise. It is Jesus hidden in the faces of the poor. It is Christ we are bombing in our wars. It is Christ we are starving by our addictions to power and greed. It is Christ we turn away each time we ignore the poor out of fear. How dare we turn him away? How dare we keep our pious thinking intact but inflict more poverty and pain on the poor?
St. Teresa of Calcutta spoke of the great spiritual poverty that afflicts the American soul - the poverty of loneliness, being unwanted, ignored, cast aside, being seen as worthless. Do we have the courage to address the fact that we fear meeting the Lord as he reveals himself in the poor? Will we be willing to come out of our magnificent buildings and pious thinking and truly lift up the lowly?
God help us if we do not.
Deacon Robert Yerhot is the director of the diaconate for the Diocese of Winona-Rochester.
Obituaries
Father Anthony Pick, 84, of Sioux City, IA, passed away peacefully on May 25, 2026, at Holy Spirit Nursing Home in Sioux City. Fr. Pick was born on November 20, 1941, in Alton, IA, to Lawrence and Cecilia Pletschette Pick and was the oldest of six children. He was ordained to the priesthood on June 3, 1967, and faithfully served the Catholic Church throughout his life in both the Sioux City Diocese and Winona-Rochester Diocese. Anthony knew he wanted to be a priest since the second grade and dedicated his life to serving God and others with compassion, faith, and humility. He obtained a bachelor's degree from Loras College in Dubuque, IA, and a Master's in Education degree from Creighton University in Omaha, NE. A lover of travel, he spent time all over Europe and South America, and shared his faith across the globe through mission work, including in China. After years of ministry in Iowa, Fr. Pick retired and moved to Slayton in 2011, where he assisted at parishes in the western end of the Diocese of Winona-Rochester. He performed the sacrament of marriage for his two brothers, as well as his eldest niece and two nephews, and even baptized their children. His ministry touched countless lives, and he was deeply respected by parishioners, fellow clergy, friends, and family.
Fr. Pick was a fitness enthusiast in his youth and an avid storyteller. He was deeply devoted to his family. He enjoyed meeting new people and was known for his wonderful sense of humor. His kindness, faith, and caring spirit will always be remembered. Fr. Anthony Pick lived a full life centered on faith, family, and service to God.
He is survived by his brothers, Ray (Janice) Pick of Rio Rancho, NM, Phil Pick of Slayton, and Walter (Ina) Pick of Avoca; his nephews, Andy (Katie) Pick of Avoca, Adam (Emily) Pick of Avoca, and Ryan Pick of Sioux Falls, SD; and his nieces, Rachelle Pick (Mike) of Sioux Falls, SD, Stephanie (Gabe) Baca of Rio Rancho, NM, and Natalie Lehman of Lexington, SC; along with many relatives, friends, parishioners, and fellow clergy members. Fr. Anthony was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence and Cecilia; infant brother, Adam Peter Pick; and younger brother, Leander Pick.
Mass of Christian Burial was held at St. Ann Church in Slayton on Tuesday, June 2, with Fr. Peter Schuster officiating, followed by interment at St. Rose of Lima Cemetery in Avoca.
May perpetual light shine upon him and may his soul and all the souls of the faithfully departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.
Sister Joanne O'Connor, SSND, 82, died June 13, 2026, in Shakopee. She served as an educator, parish minister and interpreter. Her funeral Mass was celebrated June 13 at the Windermere chapel in Shakopee with Fr. Jeffrey Horesji of the New Ulm Diocese as presider. Burial followed in the Good Counsel Cemetery, Mankato.
Sister Joanne was born in Waterloo, IA, in 1944 and grew up in Washburn, IA. She attended Catholic elementary and high school in Gilbertville, IA, where she was taught by School Sisters of Notre Dame. She entered the SSND postulate in Mankato in 1962 and professed First Vows in 1964. She taught
upper grades at St. John the Baptist School, Mankato (1966-69) and St. Casimir, Wells (1970-72). With her BA degree in Spanish, she taught Spanish at Good Counsel Academy in Mankato (1974-80) and St. Cloud Cathedral High School (1980-85). She also earned an MA degree in Spanish.
The remainder of her active ministry assignments were all Spanishrelated, and in a variety of locations: Puerto Rico; Spanish teacher of adults preparing for Hispanic parish ministry in San Antonio, TX; director of social concerns and Hispanic ministry at St. Mary Parish, Willmar; college professor of Spanish in Cullowhee, NC; and Spanish teacher and medical interpreter in Jefferson City, MO. After returning to Mankato, she volunteered at VINE’s Caring Connection program, where she partnered with a Hispanic woman. She moved with other School Sisters of Notre Dame to Shakopee in 2022.
Sister Joanne is survived by her sisters in community, the School Sisters of Notre Dame and SSND Associates; her sisters, Colleen (Carl) Taylor, Jane Shaw, Patty Hoppenworth, Jan (John) Sass, and Barb (Tom) Sass; and her brother Gary (Kay) O’Connor. She was preceded in death by her parents, Gerald and Mildred (Schaefer) O’Connor; and a brother, Richard.
A longer obituary and a recording of her funeral are available at ssndcp.org/obituaries. Memorials may be directed to the School Sisters of Notre Dame; 11 Civic Center Plaza, Suite 310; Mankato, MN 56001.
The Televised Mass Is Offered Every Sunday
Sioux Falls - ODLT Channel 7 at 7 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.
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
Speak, Lord. Your Servant Is Listening.
By SHELLY HOLT
�his is the theme for the National Council of Catholic Women Convention being held in August.
What does it mean to be a servant leader? Servant leadership in the Catholic Church is modeled directly after the life and actions of Jesus Christ, who came "not to be served but to serve" (Mark 10:45). The Catholic model emphasizes human dignity, humility, and the spiritual development of the community.
In order to serve, one must know why and in order to know why, one must be quiet enough to listen. How can we hear the still small voice of God? One has to slow down enough to truly listen to what God is saying. In today's fastpaced world, it has to be an intentional choice to say no to the many things that may seem to
be of God yet create more anxiety and distress and distraction from what God is truly asking of you. One must go to a quiet place as Jesus did throughout His ministry to become in tune with God and His Will. One must devote oneself to daily reading of the scriptures, God's training manual and book of wisdom for each of us. God gives each of us special gifts and charisms. How can you know what yours are if you do not ask?
When you are in tune with God, then like Jesus, you can step out in true faith doing what is asked of you to serve those in your midst. It starts in your own heart to know God's deep abiding, everlasting love for you. This knowledge develops the peaceful attitude to spread God's love to family and community.
Shelly Holt is the president of the WinonaRochester Diocesan Council of Catholic Women.
Joseph Buh, cont'd from pg. 7
Felton said the faithful of northeastern Minnesota have long regarded Buh as “a true spiritual father,” reflected in the title by which he became known, the “patriarch of the Diocese of Duluth.”
His ministry coincided with demographic changes in northern Minnesota as mining and railroad expansion drew new immigrant communities to the region. His fluency in multiple languages allowed him to minister across cultural lines, particularly among European immigrant groups who often lacked stable parish structures in their early years
in the United States. At his funeral, Church leaders praised his decades of missionary service across remote communities in northern Minnesota. In the years since, his memory has remained particularly strong in the region.
“Stories of his life continue to be shared throughout our region, even to this day,” Felton told the bishops. “There are accounts of his sacrifices while traveling through severe winters, his tireless efforts to provide both spiritual and material assistance, and the deep trust people placed in his prayers.”
“For generations, devotion to Monsignor Buh has endured,” he added. Interest in Buh’s cause has increased in recent years. His remains were exhumed in 2024 and transferred to the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Rosary in Duluth, where they were formally entombed in 2025.
As supporters have examined Buh’s life and writings, Felton said he is remembered as “a beloved, gentle, humble, and generous priest” whose life was ordered toward helping others draw closer to God.
“He did not come to Minnesota in search of adventure or personal gain,” Felton said, “but out of a desire to serve Jesus Christ and to lead others.”
The bishops’ vote does not open the cause nor declare Buh a saint. Rather, it represents one of several preliminary steps in the canonization process.
If the process continues, the Vatican’s Dicastery for the Causes of Saints would need to grant a “nihil obstat” (“nothing stands in the way”), allowing the cause to be formally opened. At that point, Buh would receive the title “servant of God.”
Felton told the bishops that Buh’s witness speaks to the Church’s present missionary context.
“I truly do believe the Holy Spirit is lifting him up in this time,” he said. “I think the Holy Spirit has lifted him up for our times to be our inspiration, to be our guide.”
Parish Events
July 11, Saturday
St. Luke Parish, Sherburn, will host the quarterly gathering of the Diocesan Council of Catholic Women at the church (303 S Lake St. in Sherburn), beginning with 8:30 a.m. Mass, breakfast, lunch, Catholic Charities diaper/wipes drive, and highlights from diocesan and national projects. Speakers are Maria Stumpf on Catholic Charities women's and children's initiatives, and Shelly Holt on Growing Good Mental Health. All Catholic women are invited.
July 12, Sunday
St. John the Baptist Parish, Johnsburg, will host the annual Johnsburg Jamboree at the church, beginning with 11 a.m. Polka Mass. From 12-6 p.m., games, food, fun for all ages, with two live bands!
July 19, Sunday
St. Ann Parish, Janesville, will celebrate its 150th anniversary, beginning with Mass at 8:30 a.m. in the church (313 W 2nd St. in Janesville), with Bishop Robert Barron and Fr. Robert Schneider concelebrating, followed by breakfast in the parish center.
July 26, Sunday
Holy Trinity Parish, Litomysl, will hold its 54th annual Summer Festival at the church (9946 24th Ave SE, Owatonna), beginning with Polka Mass at 10:15 a.m. Festivities from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. with food outside and games for kids and adults. Thousands of prizes. Used-a-bit items in parish center, silent auction, garden produce, baked goods (prune, poppyseed and apricot buchty). Live music. All are welcome. Handicap accessible. 8 miles south of Owatonna on Co. Rd. 45, then 2 miles east on Co. Rd. 4 (SE 98th St.). Info: 507-456-7671 or litomyslchurch.org.
September 12, Saturday
St. Theodore Parish, Albert Lea, will host Seven Sisters Apostolate for a gathering and time of reflection at the church (315 E Clark St. in Albert Lea) from 8:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Mass, light breakfast, program, Q+A, lunch, and various speakers including Seven Sisters Foundress Janette Howe. RSVP and register by August 30 to Seven Sisters Diocesan Coordinator Lola Baxter at 507-525-4053 or rcmauris@bevcomm. net. Free-will offerings are welcome on the day of the event.
