The COURIER
God's Love Is Generous
PoPe Leo XIV GIVes FIrst WeekLy GeneraL audIence
By CINDY WOODEN, Catholic News Service
VATICAN CITY (CNS) - The Gospel parable of the "wasteful sower" who casts seeds on fertile soil as well as on a rocky path "is an image of the way God loves us," Pope Leo XIV told visitors and pilgrims at his first weekly general audience.
The parable can strike people as odd because "we are used to calculating things - and at times it is necessary - but this does not apply in love," the pope told an estimated 40,000 people gathered in St. Peter's Square May 21.
Pope Leo read his full prepared text in Italian and also read the summaries of the talk in English and in Spanish.
At the end of the audience, Pope Leo drew attention to ongoing Israeli military operations in Gaza and its limitations on the delivery of humanitarian aid to the area.
"The situation in Gaza is increas ingly worrying and agonizing," he said. "I renew my heartfelt appeal to allow the entry of sufficient humanitarian aid and to end the hostilities, the heartbreaking price of which is being paid by children, the elderly and the sick."
The pope also told the crowd that he could not conclude the gathering without
remembering "our beloved Pope Francis, who exactly one month ago returned to the house of our Father."
It had been more than three months since the Vatican hosted a weekly general audience; Pope Francis met pilgrims and visitors February 12 and was hospitalized two days later. He died April
Mercy Sister Maria Juan Anderson, coordinator of the Bishops' Office for U.S. Visitors to the Vatican, which is housed in the Casa Santa Maria of the Pontifical North American College in Rome, told Catholic News Service that the office distributed 1,800 free tickets to the pope's first audi-
"We had eight priests hearing confessions for two and a half hours" as visitors came to collect their tickets May 20 and get information about the audience, the Vatican and the new pope, she said.
Pope Leo arrived in the popemobile for the audience, riding through the crowd in St. Peter's Square and stopping often to bless infants, tracing the sign of the cross on their foreheads.
The pope began his audience explaining he would continue the series of talks his predecessor had begun on the Jubilee-related theme, "Jesus Christ Our Hope."
Bishop Neary Honored at Annual Bishops and Rector Dinner
By NICOLE WENINGER
�n April 25, 2025, the Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary (IHMS) had another successful Bishops and Rector Dinner at the Rochester International Event Center.
The evening was full of laughter, music, and a strong sense of community, as IHMS gathered to celebrate and honor God's work through our seminary. Bishop Robert Barron of the Diocese of Winona-Rochester, alongside the Rector, Fr. Robert Horihan, served as hosts of the evening. Together, they presented Bishop Patrick Neary, of the Diocese of St. Cloud, with the Immaculate Heart of Mary Award, an annual honor bestowed to someone who has made a significant contribution to promoting priestly vocations. Other bishops in attendance included Bishop Emeritus Donald Kettler of the Diocese of St. Cloud, Bishop Gerard Battersby of the Diocese of La Crosse, and Bishop David Tencer of the Diocese of Reykjavik in Iceland.
The
God's Love, cont'd from pg. 1
Focusing specifically on the parable of the sower from the Gospel of Matthew 13:1-17, Pope Leo said Jesus' parables were stories "taken from everyday life" but meant to lead listeners "to a deeper meaning."
The parable of the sower, he said, is about "the dynamic of the word of God and the effects it produces. Indeed, every word of the Gospel is like a seed that is thrown on the ground of our life."
The soil where the seed in the parable lands "is our heart, but it is also the world, the community, the church," he said. "The word of God, in fact, makes fruitful and provokes every reality."
What happens to the seed depends on the quality of the earth it lands on, he said.
"But first and foremost, in this parable Jesus tells us that God throws the seed of his word on all kinds of soil, that is, in any situation of ours," the pope said. "At times we are more superficial and distracted; at times we let ourselves get carried away by enthusiasm; sometimes we are burdened by life's worries, but there are also times when we are willing and welcoming."
"God is confident and hopes that sooner or later the seed will blossom," Pope Leo said. "This is how he loves us: he does not wait for us to become the best soil, but he always generously gives us his word."
When people see how God loves and trusts them, the pope said, it should encourage them to be "better soil."
Pope Leo urged people to ask God for the grace to welcome his word in their lives, "and if we realize we are not a fruitful soil, let us not be discouraged, but let us ask him to work on us more to make us become a better terrain."
Every Vocation, Even the Pope's, Springs from God's Love, Pope Says
By CAROL GLATZ, Catholic News Service
ROME (CNS) - God's love, mercy and goodness lie at the foundation of every vocation, including that of the pope, Pope Leo XIV said.
"Let us ask the Lord for the grace to cultivate and spread his charity and to become true neighbors to one another," he said, paraphrasing his predecessor, Pope Francis, in a homily at Rome's Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls May 20.
"Let us compete in showing the love that, following (St. Paul's) encounter with Christ, drove the former persecutor to become 'all things to all people,' even to the point of martyrdom," he said.
The pope visited the basilica and tomb of St. Paul two days after the Mass for the inauguration of his Petrine ministry in St. Peter's Square. It was part of a series of visits to the city's major papal basilicas after his election.
People cheered and applauded as he entered the basilica, and he blessed the crowds. He walked to the steps descending to the apostle's tomb where he knelt briefly in silent prayer.
The prayer service was dedicated to St. Paul, the so-called "Apostle to the Gentiles" who brought the Gospel to peoples across the central and eastern Mediterranean, exemplifying evangelical zeal and the missionary spirit. The visit was part of entrusting "the beginning of this new pontificate to the intercession
The
is
publication
of the apostle," the pope said.
Pope Leo's homily reflected on a reading chosen from the opening of Paul's Letter to the Romans, where the apostle expresses his complete allegiance to the Lord and his faith in God's justifying action in Jesus.
St. Paul received the grace of his vocation from God, acknowledging "that his encounter with Christ and his own ministry were the fruit of God's prior love, which called him to a new life while he was still far from the Gospel and persecuting the church," the pope said.
St. Augustine also was a convert who experienced choosing God after having realized God had chosen him first, he said. "We cannot love unless someone has loved us first."
In fact, "at the root of every vocation, God is present, in his mercy and his goodness, as generous as that of a mother who nourishes her child with her own body for as long as the child is unable to feed itself," he said, quoting from the saint who founded the religious order he joined in his 20s.
When St. Paul speaks of "the obedience of faith," he said, he is referring to what happened to him on the road to Damascus, when the Lord appeared and "did not take away his freedom, but gave him the opportunity to make a decision, to choose an obedience that would prove costly and entail interior and exterior struggles, which Paul proved willing to face."
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"Salvation does not come about by magic, but by a mysterious interplay of grace and faith, of God's prevenient love and of our trusting and free acceptance," he said.
Quoting from Pope Benedict XVI's 2011 address to young people, Pope Leo said, "'God loves us. This is the great truth of our life; it is what makes everything else meaningful.' Indeed, 'our life originates as part of a loving plan of God.'"
"Faith leads us to 'open our hearts to this mystery of love and to live as men and women conscious of being loved by God,'" he continued.
"Here we see, in all its simplicity and uniqueness, the basis of every mission, including my own mission as the successor of Peter and the heir to Paul's apostolic zeal. May the Lord grant me the grace to respond faithfully to his call," he said.
After praying before the altar above the apostle's tomb, Pope Leo concluded the service and processed out the basilica, again to applause, blessing those present and making the sign of the cross on the foreheads of several babies.
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.
Courier
the official
of the Diocese
June Saint St. Charles Lwanga and Companions
Feast Day: June 3
From Catholic News Agency
�
t. Charles and many other martyrs for the faith died between November 15, 1885 - January 27, 1887 in Namugongo, Uganda. St. Charles and his companions were beatified in 1920 and canonized by Pope Paul VI in 1964.
In 1879 Catholicism began spreading in Uganda when the White Fathers, a congregation of priests founded by Cardinal Lavigerie, were peacefully received by King Mutesa of Uganda.
The Holy Father's Intention for June 2025
That the World Might Grow in Compassion
Let us pray that each one of us might find consolation in a personal relationship with Jesus, and, from his Heart, learn to have compassion on the world.
A seldom seen, and seldom heard, musical instrument will be used as a call to gather the people for the opening ceremonies at "Alive in the Spirit" in Mankato on Saturday, June 10.
The shofar, one of the earliest musical instruments known to man, has been a part of Hebrew culture since biblical times. Processed from the curved horn of a ram - or sometimes of a mountain goat, antelope or gazelle - the shofar's sound traditionally marks the beginning of a special occasion, such as on Rosh Hashana, in religious rites and on the Jubilee Year.
[...]
The instrument which will be used in the Mankato jubilee celebration is owned by L.F. "Bud" Baechler, president of Mediawerks, a marketing firm in Winona. He discovered it at Brochine's, a specialty retailer in the Twin Cities area.
Reprinted from June 2000.
The priests soon began preparing catechumens for baptism and before long a number of the young pages in the king’s court had become Catholics.
However, on the death of Mutesa, his son Mwanga, a corrupt man who ritually engaged in pedophilic practices with the younger pages, took the throne.
When King Mwanga had a visiting Anglican Bishop murdered, his chief page, Joseph Mukasa, a Catholic who went to great length to protect the younger boys from the king’s lust, denounced the king’s actions and was beheaded on November 15, 1885.
The 25-year-old Charles Lwanga, a man wholly dedicated to the Christian instruction of the younger boys, became the chief page, and just as forcibly protected them from the kings advances.
On the night of the martyrdom of Joseph Mukasa, realizing that their own lives were in danger, Lwanga and some of the other pages went to the White Fathers to receive baptism. Another 100 catechumens were baptized in the week following Joseph Mukasa’s death.
The following May, King Mwanga learned that one of the boys was learning catechism. He was furi ous and ordered all the pages to be questioned to separate the Christians from the others. The Christians, 15 in all, between the ages of 13 and 25, stepped forward. The King asked them if they were willing to keep their faith. They answered in unison, “Until death!”
They were bound together and taken on a two-day walk to Namugongo where they were to be burned at the
stake. On the way, Matthias Kalemba, one of the eldest boys, exclaimed, “God will rescue me. But you will not see how he does it, because he will take my soul and leave you only my body.” They executioners cut him to pieces and left him to die alone on the road, which took at least three days.
When they reached the site where they were to be burned, they were kept tied together for seven days while the executioners prepared the wood for the fire.
On June 3, 1886, the Feast of the Ascension, Charles Lwanga was separated from the others and burned at the stake. The executioners slowly burnt his feet until only the charred remained. Still alive, they promised him that they would let him go if he renounced his faith. He refused saying, “You are burning me, but it is as if you are pouring water over my body.” He then continued to pray silently as they set him on fire. Just before the flames reached his heart, he looked up and said in a loud voice, “Katonda! – My God!,” and died. His companions were all burned together the same day all the while praying and singing hymns until they died. There were 24 protomartyrs in all. The last of the protomartyrs, a young man named John Mary, was beheaded by King Mwanga on January 27, 1887. The persecutions spread during the reign of Mwanga, with 100 Christians, both Catholics and Protestants, being tortured and killed.
St. Charles Lwanga is the patron saint of African Catholic Youth Action.
A well-known newscaster will appear on a documentary news film produced by the Diocesan Office of Communications headed by Msgr. W.T. Magee. The documentary on the Spirit of Peace Indian Center, Pipestone, and the local Indians will be aired Saturday, June 7, at 10:15 p.m. on KROC-TV, Rochester, with Bob Ryan as narrator.
[...]
Also appearing in the documentary will be Father Paul Halloran, pastor of St. Leo Church, Pipestone, and John Will Bernadot, Media/Production Manager of the Office of Communications. ...
Reprinted from June 6, 1975.
Rochester - Pictured above is Dr. C.W. Mayo awarding scholarships on Commencement evening at St. Mary's School of Nursing here on May 28. Miss Mary Lou Just, Rochester, is receiving an award of the second scholarship in her class from the Rector. Next is Miss Rosina Stiffer, Rochester, a graduate of 1945, being awarded the Mayo Scholarship for graduate work in nursing education. At the right is Miss Patricia Frihart, Weyauwega, Wis., president of the graduating class, who was awarded the first scholarship. ...
Reprinted from June 11, 1950.
From the Bishop
� s some of you know, I was in Rome last week, providing commentary for various news networks who were covering the papal conclave. It was a fascinating, exhausting, and exhilarating seven days! And it culminated, to everyone’s astonishment, with the election of a Pope from America, indeed from my own hometown of Chicago.
Because I was moving from network to network, I spent a lot of time driving around Rome, going from pillar to post. In the process, I passed many of the monuments of the ancient empire. I drove past the Largo Argentina, where Julius Caesar was assassinated in 44 BC. I spied the Circus Maximus, where games and chariot races were regularly held when Rome was at the height of its influence. Just above the Circus
Peter and Caesar
Maximus, perched on the Palatine Hill, I saw the remains of the palace of the emperor. And just to the east of the Palatine I saw, stretched out before me, the Roman forum from which the sprawling empire of the Caesars was once governed. Often, during my travels through the city, I observed, at the far end of the forum, the great Coliseum, where the gladiatorial games were held, and which provided the model for practically every stadium in the western world. It is simply impossible to take all of this in and not marvel at the grandeur that was the Roman Empire.
Around the year 60, when Rome dominated the entire Mediterranean and when its armies struck terror in the hearts of millions, a middle-aged fisherman from Capharnaum in Galilee named Simeon bar Jonah, made his way to the great city. This man had known Jesus of Nazareth, who had given him the nickname “Peter” or “Rocky.”
And he came to Rome in order to tell the world that his friend, whom the Roman governor had brutally crucified, had risen from the dead. So disagreeable
did the authorities find this message that, around the year 64, they rounded up Peter and brought him to the Circus of Nero, situated outside the city, to the west of the Tiber River. There they crucified him upside down, and when their brutal work was finished, they cut him down and dragged his body to a cemetery that was immediately adjacent on the Vatican hill and buried him. Anyone watching that scene unfold would have confidently predicted that the poor man would be forgotten forever and that the movement he advocated would soon enough be eliminated by the mighty Roman juggernaut.
But where is the Roman Empire? Answer: nowhere, crumbled to dust. Where is the successor of Nero? Answer: he doesn’t exist. And what of the Forum, the Coliseum, the Circus Maximus, and the imperial palace on the Palatine Hill? Answer: all in ruins. But where is the empire of the Galilean fisherman buried on the Vatican hill? Everywhere in the world, east to west, north to south. And where is the successor of Peter? Well, I saw him with my own eyes
On S�turd�y, M�y 24, Bishop Barron ordained (L to R) Adam Worm, Cullen Gallagher and Riley Becher as transitional deacons for the Diocese of Winona-Rochester, in the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Winona. They are pictured here with DOW-R Vocations Director Rev. Jason Kern (far right).
The three new deacons now begin a year of diaconal ministry in their teaching parishes: Deacon Riley Becher at St. Charles Borromeo, St. Charles, and Holy Redeemer, Eyota; Deacon Cullen Gallagher at St. Joseph the Worker, Mankato, and Holy Family, Lake Crystal; and Deacon Adam Worm at Pax Christi, Rochester. Godwilling, they will be ordained priests next summer.
Check the July 2025 issue of The Courier for more photos from the diaconal ordination, as well as coverage from the May 30 presbyteral ordination held at the Basilica of St. Stanislaus Kostka in Winona.
*indicates event is open to the public
June 1, Sunday
2 p.m. - Confirmation - St. Mary, Caledonia
June 2, Monday
Premier Bank Clergy Golf Outing - Owatonna
June 3, Tuesday
1 p.m. - Seminary Finance Council - IHM Seminary, Winona
*5:15 p.m. - Mass for Pope Leo XIV - Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, Winona
June 4, Wednesday
2 p.m. - Bishop's Cabinet - The Chancery, Rochester
June 6, Friday
12 p.m. - New Pastor Orientation - The Chancery, Rochester
2 p.m. - DOW-R Finance Council - The Chancery, Rochester
7 p.m. - Confirmation - St. Francis of Assisi, Rochester
June 7, Saturday
10:30 a.m. - Confirmation - St. Felix, Wabasha
2 p.m. - Confirmation - St. Joachim, Plainview
walk out onto the front loggia of the massive basilica that marks the burial place of Peter. His name is Leo XIV and he is the 267th successor in an unbroken line of Simeon bar Jonah. Simon’s friend from Nazareth, just after he gave Peter his distinctive nickname, said, “You are the rock on which I will build my church, and the gates of Hell shall not prevail against it.” The enemies of Rome prevailed against it many centuries ago, but it is simply an empirically verifiable fact that the enemies of the Church, despite their very best efforts, have not managed to bring it down.
At the beginning of the fifth century, Augustine, the bishop of the North African city of Hippo, wrote a treatise called The City of God. The central argument of that lengthy and complex work is that the Roman order, based on violence and the lust to dominate, could not long endure and that the order of Christ’s kingdom, based on forgiveness, compassion, and non-violence, would last until the return of the Lord. And following upon that observation, Augustine posed
a simple but penetrating question to his readers: of which city will you become a citizen? Which king will you follow? My recent sojourn in Rome, which brought to mind so vividly the kingdom of Caesar and the Kingdom of Christ, compels me to come to terms with those same questions.
Pope Leo XIV, ad multos annos!
June 8, Sunday
*12 p.m. - Spanish Mass - St. Francis of Assisi, Rochester
June 10, Tuesday
Minnesota Catholic Conference Board Meeting - St. Paul
June 11, Wednesday
Ministry Days - St. Mary's University, Winona
June 12, Thursday
*8:30 a.m. - Staff Mass - The Chancery, Rochester
June 15, Sunday
USCCB Committee MeetingZoom
June 16, Monday
Religious Liberty Commission Hearing - Washington, D.C.
June 19, Thursday
*8:30 a.m. - Staff Mass - The Chancery, Rochester
12 p.m. - Presbyteral CouncilThe Chancery, Rochester
June 21, Saturday
*4:30 p.m. - Mass - St. Peter, Rose Creek
June 22, Sunday
*10:45 a.m. - Mass - Pax Christi, Rochester
June 24, Tuesday
11:30 a.m. - Mass with Priests of the Archdiocese of St. Paul-Minneapolis - St. Mary's University, Winona
3 p.m. - College of ConsultorsThe Chancery, Rochester
June 29, Sunday
*9:30 a.m. - Mass - St. Emily, Mt. Prospect, IL
Bishop's Calendar
Non Nisi Te Domine
Bishop Robert Barron
Pedro y el César
Por MONS. ROBERT BARRON
� omo algunos de ustedes saben, estuve en Roma la semana pasada, haciendo comentarios para varias cadenas de noticias que estaban cubriendo el cónclave papal. Fueron siete días fascinantes, agotadores y estimulantes. Y culminó, para asombro de todos, con la elección de un Papa de América, de hecho de mi propia ciudad natal, Chicago.
Como me movía de red en red, pasé mucho tiempo conduciendo por Roma, yendo de posta en posta. En el proceso, pasé por muchos de los monumentos del antiguo imperio. Pasé por Largo Argentina, donde Julio César fue asesinado en el año 44 a.C. Divisé el Circo Máximo, donde se celebraban regularmente juegos y carreras de cuadrigas cuando Roma estaba en el apogeo de su influencia. Justo encima del Circo Máximo, encaramado en la colina del Palatino, vi los restos del palacio del emperador. Y justo al este del Palatino vi, extendido ante mí, el foro roma-
no desde el que antaño se gobernaba el extenso imperio de los Césares. A menudo, durante mis viajes por la ciudad, observaba, en el extremo del foro, el gran Coliseo, donde se celebraban los juegos de gladiadores y que sirvió de modelo para prácticamente todos los estadios del mundo occidental. Es imposible no maravillarse ante la grandeza del Imperio Romano.
Alrededor del año 60, cuando Roma dominaba todo el Mediterráneo y cuando sus ejércitos sembraban el terror en los corazones de millones de personas, un pescador de mediana edad de Cafarnaún, en Galilea, llamado Simeón bar Jonás, se dirigió a la gran ciudad. Este hombre había conocido a Jesús de Nazaret, que le había dado el apodo de «Pedro» o «Roca». Y vino a Roma para decir al mundo que su amigo, a quien el gobernador romano había crucificado brutalmente, había resucitado de entre los muertos. Tan desagradable les pareció a las autoridades este mensaje que, hacia el año 64, acorralaron a Pedro y lo llevaron
al Circo de Nerón, situado fuera de la ciudad, al oeste del río Tíber. Allí lo crucificaron cabeza abajo, y cuando terminaron su brutal trabajo, lo descuartizaron y arrastraron su cuerpo hasta un cementerio que estaba inmediatamente al lado, en la colina del Vaticano, y lo enterraron. Cualquiera que hubiera visto cómo se desarrollaba aquella escena habría predicho con seguridad que aquel pobre hombre sería olvidado para siempre y que el movimiento que propugnaba sería eliminado muy pronto por el poderoso monstruo romano. Pero, ¿dónde está el Imperio Romano? Respuesta: en ninguna parte, hecho polvo. ¿Dónde está el sucesor de Nerón? Respuesta: no existe. ¿Y el Foro, el Coliseo, el Circo Máximo y el palacio imperial del Palatino? Respuesta: todo en ruinas. Pero, ¿dónde está el imperio del pescador galileo enterrado en la colina del Vaticano? En cualquier parte del mundo, de este a oeste, de norte a sur. ¿Y dónde está el sucesor de Pedro? Bueno, lo vi con mis propios ojos salir a la logia frontal de la enorme basílica que marca el lugar de sepultura de Pedro. Se llama León XIV y es el 267º sucesor en una línea ininterrumpida de Simeón bar Jonás. El amigo de Simón de Nazaret, justo después de dar a Pedro
Bishops and Rector Dinner,
cont'd from pg. 1
Bishop Patrick Neary was our keynote speaker and shared his incredible journey from his youth to seminary to the priesthood. Bishop Neary was ordained to the priesthood in 1991 at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart at the University of Notre Dame. After working as a parish minister, he began working in the Office of Campus Ministry at Notre Dame, later serving as rector of Moreau Seminary in 2004. In 2010, he was appointed to lead the seminary in Nairobi, Kenya. Bishop Neary shared a moving story of having the seminary building site torn from their grasp only to have God bless them with a fully furnished seminary nearby. He subsequently served for six years as district superior of the Congregation of Holy Cross in East Africa, headquartered in Uganda. After returning to the United States in 2018, he became pastor of Holy Redeemer Parish in Portland, OR. Pope Francis appointed him as the tenth Bishop of the Diocese of St. Cloud on December 15, 2022, and he was formally installed February 14, 2023. Throughout the evening, attendees remarked on Bishop Neary’s warm sense of humor and praised his engaging keynote address following the award presentation. Reflecting on his vocation, Bishop Neary credited his family and other priests for shaping his journey to the priesthood. He encouraged us all to be inspirations to others: "If you see a young man who would make a good priest - tell him!” Among his memorable anecdotes, we were treated to an amusing story about unintentionally blocking the phone number of the Apostolic Nuncio, who was calling to inform him of his appointment as Bishop of St. Cloud.
The dinner was a joyful and uplifting celebration, as IHMS seminarians had the opportunity to meet and personally thank their benefactors. Guests enjoyed a delicious meal featuring options of sliced beef tenderloin, herb crusted pork, or
spinach and wild mushroom ravioli. Live music was performed by seminarian-led ensembles beginning with “Immaculate Jazz” welcoming guests during the social hour. After dinner, the Schola Choir performed two beautiful Latin hymns: Tenebrae by T.L. de Victoria and Creator Alme Siderum by Richard Burchard, both reflecting key moments in the liturgical calendar.
The Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary community extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated in and contributed to this year’s Bishops and Rector Dinner, including those who were unable to attend. Your prayers and continued support are deeply appreciated.
We look forward to welcoming you to next year’s Bishops and Rector Dinner on April 17, 2026!
Nicole Weninger is a marketing and communications associate for the Catholic Foundation of Southern Minnesota.
su apodo distintivo, dijo: «Tú eres la roca sobre la que edificaré mi Iglesia, y las puertas del Infierno no prevalecerán contra ella». Los enemigos de Roma prevalecieron contra ella hace muchos siglos, pero es simplemente un hecho empíricamente verificable que los enemigos de la Iglesia, a pesar de sus mejores esfuerzos, no han conseguido derribarla.
A principios del siglo V, Agustín, obispo de la ciudad norteafricana de Hipona, escribió un tratado titulado La ciudad de Dios. El argumento central de esa extensa y compleja obra es que el orden romano, basado en la violencia y el ansia de dominio, no podía perdurar mucho tiempo y que el orden del reino de Cristo, basado en el perdón, la compasión y la no violencia, perduraría hasta el regreso del Señor. Y a partir de esa observación, Agustín planteó a sus lectores una pregunta sencilla pero penetrante: ¿de qué ciudad te harás ciudadano? ¿A qué rey seguirás? Mi reciente estancia en Roma, que me ha recordado tan vívidamente el reino del César y el reino de Cristo, me obliga a plantearme esas mismas preguntas. ¡Papa León XIV, ad multos annos!
Immaculate Jazz welcomed guests to the social hour.
Bishop Robert Barron (L) presents Bishop Patrick Neary with the Immaculate Heart of Mary Award, as Fr. Robert Horihan looks on.
St. Joseph's Family Camp Registration Now Open!
By PETER MARTIN
What is the St. Joseph's Family Camp?
This is a day camp to celebrate, support, and encourage families affected by disability. Participants will have the opportunity to celebrate Sunday Mass, participate in adaptive activities such as an adaptive zipline and accessible wagon ride, share a meal, and join a faith formation session designed for the whole family.
When and where is the Camp this year?
Sunday, August 24, 2025, from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. at Ironwood Springs Christian Ranch in Stewartville.
Who
can attend?
This camp is for families with a son or daughter (of any age, including adult) affected by disability. While we hope the whole family is able to attend, as a family camp there is a minimum requirement of two people
registered per family, which must include the person (son or daughter) with a disability.
We are also looking for volunteers age 18+ to help support our participating families throughout the day. No special experience is required, but VIRTUS training and a background check is required for all volunteers (and can be provided as needed).
How much does the camp cost?
The camp is generously sponsored by the Diocese of Winona-Rochester and is free for participating families and volunteers.
I'd like to learn more or sign up as a participant or volunteer. Where can I find more information?
Please visit our webpage at www.dowr.org or email us at stjosephfamilycamp@dowr.org
Peter Martin is the director of life, marriage & family for the Diocese of Winona-Rochester.
By PETER MARTIN
t he Diocese of Winona-Rochester is pleased to announce that the Marriage Anniversary Mass will be at St. Rose of Lima in Lewiston on Saturday, September 6 at 10:00 am. Bishop Robert Barron will preside at a special celebration of the Eucharist honoring married couples of all ages. Please register at www.dowr.org.
Peter Martin is the director of life, marriage & family for the Diocese of Winona-Rochester.
Happy Anniversaries! 7
Rev. Robert Herman years a priest) was born in Tabor, SD, to Emil and Albina (Petrik) Herman. He studied philosophy at Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary in Winona and then completed his theology degree at the Theological College in Washington, D.C. On May 31, 1960, Father Herman was ordained to the priesthood at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Winona by the Most Rev. Edward Fitzgerald. Father Herman’s assignments as Parochial Vicar were at St. Augustine in Austin, St. Stanislaus Kostka in Winona, St. Joseph the Worker in Mankato, Ss. Peter and Paul in Blue Earth, Our Lady of Mercy in Guckeen, St. Joseph in Owatonna, and St. Edward in Austin. As Pastor, he served at St. Aidan in Ellendale, St. Mary in Geneva, Sacred Heart in Hayfield, Our Lady of Loretto in Brownsdale, Sacred Heart in Adams, St. John the Baptist in Johnsburg, Holy Trinity in Litomysl, St. Francis de Sales in Claremont, Christ the King in Medford, and Corpus Christi in Deerfield. Additional assignments include instructor for Pacelli High School in Austin, Cotter High School in Winona, Loyola High School in Mankato, and Marian High School in Owatonna; confessor to the School Sisters of Notre Dame for their St. Casimir Convent in Winona; parochial duties at St. Joseph in Owatonna; Parochial Administrator for St. Francis de Sales in Claremont and Queen of Peace in Lyle; principal of Pacelli High School in Austin; and Priest Moderator for Christ the King in Medford and Corpus Christi in Deerfield. On July 1, 2002, Father Herman joined the rank of senior priests of the diocese.
he taught at Cotter High School for a year and then became Spiritual Director at IHM Seminary while he also served at St. Mary’s in Geneva and St. Aidan’s in Ellendale. Then he served at St. Mary’s, Minneiska; Sacred Heart, Adams; St. Mary’s, Winona; Queen of Angels, Austin; St. Theodore’s in Albert Lea, along with St. James in Twin Lakes; All Saints in Madison Lake and Immaculate Conception in St. Clair; and, finally, St. Mary of the Lake in Lake City and St. Joseph’s in Theilman. He joined the ranks of Senior Priests on July 1, 2008. Then followed six years as Chaplain of Madonna Towers in Rochester. He presently resides at St. Elizabeth’s Medical Center, Wabasha. He also served two terms each as a Consultor to the Bishop and on the Presbyteral Council. Asked which parish was his favorite, he replied, “The one I was serving at any given time - they were all my favorites.”
After 65 years of priesthood, his only fear is what one former parishioner implied on her deathbed. It was an 88-year-old woman who had been brought to the emergency room in a state of unconsciousness. Fr. Russell had just administered the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick to her when she opened her eyes, took one good look at him, and with a grin on her face turned to the doctors and nurses and said, “I can’t be in Heaven. Fr. Russell is here!”
Rev. James Russell is 65 years a priest. HOLY COW! HOLY WOW! HOLY
MARIAH! UFFDA! Who would have ever guessed that a fourth grader who stubbornly refused to be an altar boy would be called by God to be a priest! God used the joyful spirits of his childhood pastors Fr. Harold Mountain and Fr. Frank Enright, along with Sr. Ramona Schweich, SSND, and his parents to consider the possibility of the priesthood. The evening before his ordination, May 31, 1960, Bishop Edward Fitzgerald told him and his six classmates to be nice to parish housekeepers because they were harder to find than priests! His first assignment was to St. John’s Parish in Rochester as an assistant to Msgr. Louie O’Day, whom visitors affectionately called “Give ‘em Hell Harry!” because he didn’t mince words in the pulpit. In addition to parish duties, Fr. Russell taught at Lourdes High School and served as Chaplain to the Methodist Hospital. Then he served at St. Peter’s Parish in Caledonia and also taught at Loretto High School. Bishop Fitzgerald then sent him to do mission work in Peru with the Society of St. James the Apostle. Returning to the Diocese after three years,
Rev. James Buryska (60 years a priest) was born in Litomysl, studied philosophy at Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary in Winona and earned his theology degree at North American College and the Gregorian University in Rome, Italy. On December 18, 1965, Father Buryska was ordained to the priesthood at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome by the Most Rev. Francis Reh. Father Buryska served as instructor for Pacelli High School in Austin; Parochial Vicar for St. Augustine in Austin; co-director of Mower County Christian Education Center; and served as executive secretary to the diocesan Pastoral Council. In 1976, Father Buryska began a decades-long ministry as a chaplain, serving at St. Marys Hospital in Rochester, the Motherhouse of the Sisters of St. Francis in Rochester, Methodist Hospital in Rochester, and Rochester Federal Medical Center. Father Buryska also served as the Director of the Chaplaincy Department at St. Marys Hospital in Rochester, and was part of the National Association of Catholic Chaplains Certification Commission, before retiring from the Mayo Clinic in 2017. Father Buryska has continued to serve at Mayo Clinic and Assisi Heights after retirement on a part-time basis.
Rev. Peter Brandenhoff (55 years a priest) was born on November 16, 1943, in Duluth, to John and Barbara (Beier) Brandenhoff. He completed his degree in philosophy at St. Mary’s College and Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary in Winona. His theological studies in preparation for ordination were completed at St. John’s Seminary and School of Theology in Collegeville. On May 23, 1970, Father Brandenhoff was ordained to the priesthood at St. John Vianney Church in Fairmont by the Most Rev. Loras J. Watters. Father Peter later earned an MA in liturgical studies
at St. John’s University / School of Theology in Collegeville. Father’s assignments as Parochial Vicar include the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Winona, St. Pius X in Rochester, and St. Stanislaus Kostka in Winona. As a parish pastor, he served at St. Paul’s Parish in Minnesota City and St. John Vianney Parish in Fairmont. Additional assignments include instructor of religion at Cotter High School in Winona, chaplain at the School Sisters of Notre Dame Motherhouse and instructor of religion at Good Counsel Academy in Mankato, chairman of the diocesan Commission on Sacred Liturgy, Advocate and Defender of the Bond for the Tribunal, and Defender of the Bond for the inter-provincial appellate court. During his years in Fairmont, he was also Parochial Administrator of Holy Family in East Chain. In 1993, Fr. Peter completed a graduate degree in clinical social work at the University of Minnesota. He worked for 18 years as a psychotherapist in a multi-discipline psychiatric clinic in the Twin Cities. During those years, he offered Mass on weekends at various parishes in the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis. Now a senior priest of the diocese, Father Brandenhoff lives in Woodbury with his canine, Brandy, and continues to celebrate both daily and Sunday liturgies in the Twin Cities. He enjoys playing the piano and such outdoor activities as camping, kayaking, bicycling and cross-country skiing.
Rev. Richard Dernek (55 years a priest) was born in Winona, to Richard and Bernadine (Kukowski) Dernek. He studied philosophy at Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary in Winona and then completed his theol ogy degree at St. Paul Seminary in St. Paul. On May 30, 1970, Father Dernek was ordained to the priesthood at St. John Nepomucene in Winona by the Most Rev. Loras Watters. Father Dernek’ assignments as Parochial Vicar were at Sacred Heart in Owatonna, St. Augustine in Austin, St. John the Evangelist in Rochester, and St. Stanislaus Kostka in Winona. As Pastor, he served at St. Aidan in Ellendale, St. Mary in Geneva, Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Harmony, St. Patrick in Lanesboro, Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Canton, St. Olaf in Mabel, St. Columbanus in Blooming Prairie, Sacred Heart in Hayfield, St. Mary in Lake City, and St. Patrick in West Albany. Additional assignments include instructor for Marian High School in Owatonna and assistant chaplain at St. Marys Hospital in Rochester. On June 27, 2012, Father Dernek joined the rank of senior priests of the diocese.
Rev. Joseph Fogal (50 years a priest) was born in Wittemore, IA, to Benjamin and Rosella (Kajewski) Fogal. He attended the University of Minnesota in Mankato, and then studied philosophy at Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary in Winona and completed his theology degree at St. John’s University in Collegeville. On May 23, 1975, Father Fogal was ordained to the priesthood at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Winona by the Most Rev. Loras Watters. Father Fogal’s assignments as Parochial Vicar were at St. Pius X in Rochester and St. John the Baptist in Mankato. As Pastor, he served at St. John Vianney in Fairmont, Holy Family in East Chain, St. Edward in Austin, Holy Trinity in Litomysl, St. Aidan in Ellendale, St. Augustine in Austin, Pax Christi in Rochester, and Ss. Peter and Paul in Mazeppa. Additional assignments include instructor for Lourdes High School in Rochester and Loyola High School in Mankato; chaplain for the St. Thomas More Newman Center in Mankato; member of the diocesan Presbyteral Council, Pastoral Council, Priests’ Committee for Capital Campaign, and Priests’ Assignments Committee; Parochial Administrator for St. Joseph in Good Thunder; and Vocations Director for the Diocese of Winona. On July 1, 2017, Father Fogal joined the rank of senior priests of the diocese.
Deacon Leonard Fuller (50 years a dea con) was born in Rhinebeck, NY, to Jerome Fuller and Catherine Zeto.
Deacon Fuller married Roberta Jean Bush on April 28, 1962. They have two daughters:
Julie Feldhake (Patrick) of Waverly, IA, and Colleen Johnson of Springdale, AR.
He received his BA in theater arts from the University of Arizona and completed his diaconate formation at Regina Cleri Seminary for the Diocese of Tuscon. On May 11, 1975 he was ordained a deacon at St. Helen Parish in Eloy, AZ, by the Most Rev. Francis J. Green for the Diocese of Tucson. He later attended Saint Mary's University of Minnesota, where he received an MA in philanthropy and development. On August 23, 2000, Deacon Fuller entered the Diocese of Winona from the Diocese of Tuscon and was granted incardination into the Diocese of Winona on November 19, 2003. Deacon Fuller’s assignments in the Diocese of Winona-Rochester included Director of the Office of Stewardship and Development and a member of the Incardination Board. Deacon Fuller also served in the Diocese of New Ulm and was granted senior deacon status October 18, 2015.
Rev. John Evans, II (45 years a priest) was born in Fargo, ND, to John and Gerry (Nystul) Evans. He attended North Dakota State University in Fargo, and studied philosophy at Cardinal Muench Seminary in Fargo, ND, and completed his theology degree at St. Paul Seminary in St. Paul. On May 18, 1980, Father Evans was ordained to the priesthood for the Diocese of Fargo at the St. Paul Newman Center Chapel in Fargo, ND, by the Most Rev. Justin Driscoll. As a priest of the Diocese of Fargo, Father Evans served as Parochial Vicar for Nativity in Fargo, St. Joseph in Devils Lake, Assumption in Starkweather, St. Benedict in Rutten, and Holy Spirit in Fargo; Parochial Administrator for Holy Rosary in Bisbee, Sacred Heart in Hansboro, and Immaculate Heart of Mary in Rock Lake; Parochial Vicar for Immaculate Conception in Columbia Heights, MN; Pastor for St. Elizabeth in Sykeston, St. Patrick in Hurdsfield, St. Aloysius in Lisbon, and St. Vincent in Gwinner; and chaplain for Prairie St. John’s Hospital / Behavioral Health and Chemical Addiction Center and SMP Health System in Fargo. Father Evans served as chaplain for the Mayo Clinic for 12 years, beginning in 2007. In 2015, he became incardinated in the Diocese of Winona. His assignments since then include serving as Parochial Administrator for St. Joseph in Rushford, St. Peter in Hokah, and St. Mary in Houston, and as a member of the Presbyteral Council. Father Evans is currently Pastor of Crucifixion in La Crescent and St. Patrick in Brownsville.
served in other ministerial offices: Defender of the Bond for the Tribunal; spiritual director, Director of Apostolic Works, and faculty at Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary in Winona; Master of Ceremonies, Chancellor, Adjutant Judicial Vicar, canonical consultant, and Judicial Vicar for the Diocese of Winona; Dean of the Winona Deanery; member of the Deposit and Loan Fund Board of Directors and Presbyteral Council; and spiritual director for the Legion of Mary in Mankato. Father McGrath is currently Pastor of St. Mary in Chatfield, Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Canton, St. Patrick Oratory in Lanesboro, and St. Columban in Preston; serves as spiritual director for the Legion of Mary in Rochester; and is on the Catholic Foundation Board.
Very Rev. Donald Schmitz (45 years a priest) was born in Austin, to Raymond and Elizabeth (Wendell)
Rev. Edward McGrath (45 years a priest) was born in 1954 in Dixon, IL, to Edward F. and Patricia (Duffy) McGrath. He studied classical humanities and philosophy at Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary in Winona and St. Mary’s College, then completed his theology degree in May 1980 at St. Paul Seminary in St. Paul. He later (1991) earned a licentiate in canon law (JCL) from the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome, Italy. He was incardinated in the Diocese of Winona and ordained a deacon on April 18, 1979, at St. John Vianney Chapel of IHM Seminary. On June 2, 1980, Father McGrath was ordained to the priesthood at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Winona by the Most Rev. Loras J. Watters. Father McGrath’s assignments as Parochial Vicar were at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Winona and St. Francis of Assisi in Rochester. As Pastor, he served at Holy Trinity in Rollingstone, Immaculate Conception in Oak Ridge, St. Mary in Minneiska, and Pax Christi in Rochester. In addition, he was Parochial Administrator of St. Joseph in Owatonna, Christ the King in Medford, and Corpus Christi in Deerfield. Over the years, concurrent pastoral assignments included instructor for Lourdes High School in Rochester and Cotter High School in Winona; chaplain for Assisi Heights in Rochester; after Fr. Dennis Schimek died, he was Parochial Administrator for St. John Baptist de la Salle in Dodge Center, Holy Family in Kasson, and in years later for St. Patrick in Brownsville, Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Harmony, Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Canton, and St. Olaf in Mabel. He also
Schmitz. He studied philosophy at Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary in Winona, and theology at St. Paul Seminary in St. Paul and Pope John XXIII Seminary in Boston, MA. Father Schmitz also earned a Master of Science degree in counseling psychology from Winona State University. On June 2, 1980, Father Schmitz was ordained to the priesthood at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Winona by the Most Rev. Loras Watters. Father Schmitz’s assignment as Parochial Vicar was at St. Francis of Assisi in Rochester. As Pastor, he served at St. Joseph the Worker in Mankato, St. Anthony in Lismore, St. Kilian in St. Kilian, Our Lady of Good Counsel in Wilmont, St. Mary in Caledonia, and Holy Spirit in Rochester. Additional assignments include chaplain and adjunct education professor for St. Mary's College in Winona; Associate Judge, Defender of the Bond, and Advocate for the Tribunal; instructor for Loyola High School in Mankato; member of the Presbyteral Council; and Parochial Administrator for St. Charles Borromeo in St. Charles, Holy Redeemer in Eyota, St. Aloysius in Elba, St. Mary in Lake City, and St. Patrick in West Albany. On July 1, 2013, Father Schmitz joined the rank of senior priests of the diocese, and he currently serves as Co-Vicar for Senior Priests.
Rev. Kevin Connolly (40 years a priest) was born in Helena, MT, to Thomas M. and Mildred C. (DeMarco) Connolly. Father Connolly studied history and philosophy at Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary in Winona and completed his theology degree at St. Paul Seminary in St. Paul. On June 19, 1985, he was ordained to the priesthood at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Winona by the Most Rev. Loras J. Watters. Father Connolly’s assignments as Parochial Vicar were at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Winona, St. Stanislaus Kostka and St. John Nepomucene in Winona, St. Theodore in Albert Lea, St. James in Twin Lakes, and St. Mary in Worthington. As Pastor, he served at St. Leo in Pipestone, St. Martin in Woodstock, St. Joseph in Jasper, St. Mary in Worthington, All Saints in Madison Lake, Immaculate Conception in St. Clair, St. John Vianney in Fairmont, Holy Family in East Chain, Resurrection in Rochester,
St. Joseph in Owatonna, Christ the King in Medford, and Corpus Christi in Deerfield. Additional assignments include instructor for Cotter High School in Winona; member of the Presbyteral Council; Moderator for the Council of Catholic Women in the Mankato Area; member of the Catholic Charities Board of Directors, College of Consultors, and Clergy Personnel Committee; Dean of the Rochester Deanery; and Chaplain for the Rochester Serra Club. Father Connolly currently serves as Pastor of St. Bernard in Stewartville and St. Bridget in Simpson.
Rev. John Sauer (40 years a priest) was born in St. Cloud, to Donald G. and Mary Ann (Kloeppner) Sauer. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree from St. John University in Collegeville, and studied philosophy at Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary in Winona, and then studied at the North American College while completing an MA in sacramental theology from the Pontifical Athenaeum of St. Anselm in Rome, Italy. On June 19, 1985, Father Sauer was ordained to the priesthood at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Winona by the Most Rev. Loras J. Watters. Father Sauer’s assignments as Parochial Vicar were at St. Stanislaus Kostka in Winona, St. Francis of Assisi in Rochester and St. John the Baptist in Mankato. As Pastor he served at St. Edward in Austin, Our Lady of Loretto in Brownsdale, St. Casimir in Winona, Immaculate Conception in Wilson, Sacred Heart in Owatonna, and Holy Trinity in Litomysl; and he was the Rector of the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Winona. He also served as Parochial Administrator for St. Joseph in Owatonna, Christ the King in Medford and St. Pius X in Rochester. Additional assignments include faculty for Cotter High School in Winona, Lourdes High School in Rochester, and Loyola High School in Mankato; Master of Ceremonies; Director for Liturgy; executive chairman on the Commission on Sacred Liturgy; Vocation Director for the Austin / Albert Lea Deanery; Diocesan Censor of Books and Periodicals; Director of RCIA and Evangelization; member of the Priests Committee for Capital Campaign; Dean for the Winona Deanery; member of the Presbyteral Council; and spiritual director of the Owatonna-Waseca Area Council of Catholic Women and the Our Lady Queen of the Universe Mankato Curia. Father Sauer currently is Pastor of Pax Christi in Rochester and Ss. Peter & Paul in Mazeppa, and is a member of the Pension Plan for Priests Board of Trustees.
the Liturgical Institute of the University of St. Mary of the Lake in Mundelein, IL. Father Arens’ assignment as Parochial Vicar was at Pax Christi in Rochester. As Pastor he served at All Saints in Madison Lake, Immaculate Conception in St. Clair, St. Ann in Slayton, St. Columba in Iona, St. Mary in Lake Wilson, St. Mary in Chatfield, St. Patrick in Lanesboro, St. Columban in Preston, St. Francis Xavier in Windom, Sacred Heart in Heron Lake, and Sacred Heart in Brewster. Additional assignments include being a member of the Presbyteral Council. Father Arens is currently Rector of the Basilica of St. Stanislaus Kostka and Pastor of St. John Nepomucene in Winona, Director of Divine Worship for the Diocese of WinonaRochester, Episcopal Master of Ceremonies, Canonical Administrator for St. Mary Cemetery in Winona, and a member of the Diocesan Liturgical Commission.
St. Agnes in Kellogg, St. Rose of Lima in Lewiston, St. Anthony in Altura, Immaculate Conception in Wilson and St. Mary in Minneiska. Other assignments include Parochial Administrator for All Saints in Madison Lake and Immaculate Conception in St. Clair; Moderator for the Council of Catholic Women for the Owatonna/ Waseca Area; member of the Pension Plan for Priests Board of Trustees and the Diocesan Review Board; Adjutant Judicial Vicar, Judicial Vicar, and Chancellor for the Diocese of Winona. Father Frerichs currently serves as Pastor of Sacred Heart in Waseca and All Saints in New Richland, and is a judge for the Diocese of Winona-Rochester Tribunal and a member of the College of Consultors and Presbyteral Council.
Rev. Antony Arokiyam (25 years a priest) was born in Allikondapattu, Tamil Nadu, India, to Arokiyam Antony and Mariammal Arokiyam. He received a bachelors degree in both philosophy and theology from Sacred Heart Seminary in Chennai. On May 4, 2000, Father Arokiyam was ordained to the priesthood at St. John de Britto, Allidondapattu by the Most Rev. Dr. A. Malayappan Chinnappa. Father Arokiyam later also received an MA from Annamalai University and a B.Ed degree from Thiruvalluvar University, Serkadu, Vellore, Tamil Nadu. After serving several years in India, Father Arokiyam ministered in the Diocese of La Crosse, WI, at St. Patrick in Mauston, St. Mary in Lyndon Station, St. Mary in Auburndale, St. Michael in Hewit and St. Kilian in Blenker. In 2019 Father Arokiyam entered the Diocese of Winona-Rochester, where his assignments have been as Pastor at St. Ann in Janesville, All Saints in New Richland, St. Joseph in Waldorf, Sacred Heart in Adams, St. John the Baptist in Johnsburg, Queen of Peace in Lyle and St. Peter in Rose Creek; and Parochial Vicar of St. Columba in Iona and St. Mary in Lake Wilson. Father Arokiyam is currently Parochial Vicar for Sacred Heart in Brewster, Immaculate Heart of Mary in Currie, St. Gabriel in Fulda, Sacred Heart in Heron Lake, St. Ann in Slayton, St. Anthony in Westbrook and St. Francis Xavier in Windom.
Very Rev. Patrick Arens (25 years a priest) was born in Wabasha to John and Rita (Fosmo) Arens and grew up in Kellogg. His undergraduate studies were at St. Mary’s University of Minnesota and Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary, Winona, where he earned a degree in computer science. Later, he studied theology at Mundelein Seminary in Mundelein, IL, and earned a Masters of Divinity. On May 27, 2000, Father Arens was ordained to the priesthood at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Winona by the Most Rev. Bernard J. Harrington. Father Arens later studied liturgy at
Deacon Justin Green (25 years a dea con) was born on August 24, 1944, in New Orleans, LA. He was ordained a deacon on February 26, 2000, by Bishop Edward O’Donnelll for the Diocese of Lafayette, LA, and assigned to St. Genevieve Parish. Returning to Winona in 2001, he was assigned to St. Casimir Parish. When it was clustered with the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, he was reassigned to the Cathedral and, in 2005, to St. Stanislaus Koska Parish. He was incardinated into the Diocese of Winona on August 8, 2005. Deacon Green served seven years on the Diocesan Curia as Director of the Permanent Diaconate, Director of the Annual Diocesan Appeal, and Director of Pastoral Planning. Currently, he is assigned to the Basilica of St. Stanislaus Kostka and the parish of St. John Nepomucene, both in Winona.
Rev. Glenn Frerichs (25 years a priest) was born in St. Paul, to Jerry and Marjorie (Sanoski) Frerichs. He obtained a Bachelors of Science degree in industrial technology from Bemidji State University in Bemidji, studied phi losophy at Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary in Winona and completed his theology degree at St. Paul Seminary in St. Paul. On May 27, 2000, Father Frerichs was ordained to the priesthood at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Winona by the Most Rev. Bernard J. Harrington. Father Frerichs later earned his licentiate in Canon Law from the Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. Father Frerichs’ assignments as Parochial Vicar were at St. Francis of Assisi in Rochester, the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Winona, and St. Casimir in Winona. As Pastor, he served at St. Ann in Janesville, St. Joseph in Waldorf, St. Felix in Wabasha, Immaculate Conception in Kellogg,
Rev. Shawn Haremza years a priest) was born in St. Paul, to Thomas John and Jean Clare (Ashenbach) Haremza. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in corrections from Mankato State University and studied philosophy at Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary in Winona, and then completed his degree in theology at Mundelein Seminary in Mundelein, IL. On May 27, 2000, he was ordained to the priesthood at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Winona by the Most Rev. Bernard J. Harrington. Father Haremza’s assignments as Parochial Vicar were at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Winona, St. John the Baptist in Mankato, Resurrection in Rochester, St. John Vianney in Fairmont, Holy Family in East Chain, St. Francis of Assisi in Rochester, and Pax Christi in Rochester. He served as Parochial Administrator at St. Charles Borromeo in St. Charles, Holy Redeemer in Eyota and Ss. Peter & Paul in Mazeppa. As Pastor, Father Haremza served at St. Rose of Lima in Lewiston, St. Anthony in Altura, Immaculate Conception in Wilson, Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Harmony, St. Olaf in Mabel, and Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Canton. Additional assignments include chaplain for St. Thomas Aquinas Newman Center in Winona, Cotter High School in Winona, Loyola High School in Mankato. Father Haremza currently serves as Parochial Vicar for St. Francis of Assisi in Rochester, Chaplain for the Rochester Knights of Columbus Fourth Degree Assembly, Master of Ceremonies for episcopal liturgies and a member of the Diocese of Winona-Rochester Social Concerns Committee.
10 Recapping the 2025 Walk to Mary Pilgrimage
By BRIAN HANSEN
I am the Queen of Heaven who prays for the conversion of sinners.... Make a general confession and offer Communion for the conversion of sinners. If they do not convert and do penance, my Son will be obliged to punish them”
-Our Lady of Champion, to seer Adele Brise
the culmination of the diocesan Holy Family Retreats & Pilgrimage occurred on Friday, May 2, when 28 pilgrims from the Diocese of Winona-Rochester traveled to Wisconsin to take part in and experience the annual Walk to Mary pilgrimage. For over 12 years now, in early May, people of various ages, races, and nationalities all come together to participate in this sacred pilgrimage experience. In one day, pilgrims walk 22 miles to the National Shrine of Our Lady of Champion (OLC). This shrine is the only Church-approved Marian apparition site in the United States of America.
Led by their chaplain, Fr. Joshua Miller, this DOW-R pilgrimage group began their sacred journey by first celebrating Mass in Rochester at Mary, Mother of the Eucharist Chapel in the DOW-R Chancery. From there, the group then loaded themselves up onto a coach bus that would take them to De Pere, WI, the starting point for the pilgrimage walk. During the drive, pilgrims introduced themselves to one another, prayed together, and engage in theological reflection and discussion. All of these exercises were intended to immerse each member of the group into the pilgrim mentality. This was an important reminder for everyone that going on pilgrimage is very different from going on vacation. While in route to De Pere, the pilgrimage group stopped in La Crosse, WI, to visit the Shrine of Our
Lady of Guadalupe (OLG). Pilgrims prayed in the shrine proper and at the various holy sites and memorials on the grounds. They also took advantage of walking the trails, perusing and purchasing items in the gift shop, and enjoying a nice lunch prepared by the shrine’s cafe. Following our visit at the OLG Shrine, the remainder of our travel time on the bus was dedicated to praying the Rosary. When leading us in prayer, Fr. Miller informed everyone that the group would be praying through all the mysteries of the Rosary (i.e. Joyful, Luminous, Sorrowful, & Glorious). I, myself, had never gone through this type of spiritual exercise when praying the Rosary, but when doing it, I gradually entered more and more into a meditative state that pondered the various moments of Jesus’ life and ministry. By the time we completed this lengthy form of prayer, our pilgrimage group was very close to De Pere, and, upon arriving, we checked into our hotel, had dinner, and then went to bed early in preparation for the pilgrimage walk the following morning.
On Saturday, May 3, the day of the Walk to Mary, the DOW-R pilgrimage group left the hotel at 6:15 a.m. and drove to St. Norbert College. At the college, the group met up with all the other pilgrims in attendance for the walk at the National Shrine of St. Joseph. Located in Old St. Joseph Church, this shrine marked the starting point for the pilgrimage. Prior to the walk’s commencement, all the pilgrims participated in a brief prayer service; during the service, it was mentioned that over 7,000 pilgrims were registered for this year’s walk! Around 7:30 a.m., the walk began, and pilgrims then journeyed together on foot to the National Shrine of Our Lady of Champion. During my time walking, I conversed with pilgrims outside of our DOW-R group; I found out that some of them came from states across the country (e.g. Texas, Florida, Arizona, and California). This news was a beautiful testament to the devotion and witness of the Catholic faith by the lay faith-
ful! Some members of the DOW-R pilgrimage group walked all 22 miles while others walked only a portion of it. Once the pilgrimage walk was completed, our group then celebrated Vigil Mass with numerous other pilgrims. After Mass, the group then departed the OLC Shrine and returned to our hotel for dinner and some well-deserved rest.
Sunday, May 4, was a day dedicated to traveling back home to Rochester. Yet, our pilgrimage experience was not over. During the ride home, the DOW-R pilgrimage group prayed and shared with one another their spiritual insights and experiences from the walk. Among the pilgrims, there were feelings of joy and gratitude for all that they had undergone and accomplished the day prior. These conversations made time fly, and before we knew it, we were back at the DOW-R Chancery in Rochester. Here, Fr. Miller concluded our pilgrimage with a Mass of Thanksgiving.
In closing, I would like to express my gratitude to Fr. Miller and all those who participated in our diocese’s inaugural Walk to Mary Pilgrimage event. Thank you also to any people in our diocese who accepted my invitation in previous issues of The Courier to pray for our pilgrimage group. Your prayers made all the difference in making this weekend a truly blessed and spiritually transformative experience! In the years ahead, it is my intention to offer this pilgrimage experience as an annual diocesan event for our laity and clergy. Next year, the 2026 Walk to Mary will be on Saturday, May 2. That said, our diocese’s Office of Evangelization will begin promoting next year’s pilgrimage sometime in the fall of 2025. Please be on the lookout for promotional announcements of this diocesan event and prayerfully consider going on pilgrimage with us. Thank you and God bless!
Brian Hansen is the coordinator of adult and lay formation for the Diocese of Winona-Rochester.
From Our Graduates
We Asked Seniors at Our Catholic High Schools: 'What Does Catholic Education Mean to You?'
I Can Do All Things Through
Christ
By VICKY VAZQUEZ
� came to Pacelli five years ago, when I was in eighth grade. One thing I noticed was how important faith was at my school; it was different from what I have experienced in the public schools. There was this closer connection with God and everyone else at the school. There were definitely some obstacles through my high school years, but I had teachers who encouraged me to meet myself at my highest standards.
I had the opportunity to live freely in my faith and grow in it, and not worry about what others would think of me. I am able to talk about God and share the amazing graces I received through him.
It was beautiful to see how our school could bring all of us together equally, whether in living rosaries or in school Masses; it was a call of family, and we all participated together no matter who we were. I had teachers who were so open about their faith and taught us the importance of living in our faith every day. I look up to my teachers; I see how they serve us with so much love and are willing to guide us through our education, with our faith in the center of it.
I am grateful for my Catholic education because it taught me many things. It taught me to serve others with charity. To serve in school Masses was an act of charity. It taught me the importance of patience and humility as well.
Once I graduate, I plan on becoming a teacher. This all comes from God, because, growing up, I never desired to study to be a teacher; I only thought of myself and what I wanted for my vocation. However, because of my Catholic education, I see the importance of serving others, because while serving others, we are serving Christ.
Philippians 4:13 has always been one of my favorite verses from the Bible: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” This verse is just a reminder for me to lean on Christ; through all my sufferings and all the bad times, I can always rely on him. I cannot do things in my human strength; I have tried, and that led me nowhere. But, with the strength of Christ, I am capable of doing anything.
My vocation is very important for me because I have this fear of the Lord, fearing that I won't do his will. Through my Catholic education, I was taught that my vocation should have God in it. Whatever my vocation is (maybe it is not becoming a teacher), it will all be according to the will of God, and that's what I desire to do. I give myself completely to God, and donate myself to him, and love the Lord above all things because his love is eternal, and his will is what will let me taste heaven on earth.
The Opportunity to Ask Questions
By MADALINE MODJESKI
�
arly in my sophomore year, my religion teacher, Mr. McGlaun, started a Monday theology lunch club, where curious students came to his classroom and huddled around, asking him questions about theology, social justice, and Catholicism. I had grown up Catholic, but I was still lacking in my religious education. I often felt as if I could not justify my faith or explain to others why I was Catholic. These lunch meetings offered answers for me. I could safely ask any question, from the most simple to the more complex, and my curiosity about faith and religion slowly blossomed with the help of my teachers and mentors. The solid foundation of information, morals, and theology that I received enabled me to confidently understand and justify my faith, something that I know will serve me well as I continue to learn and grow in college.
There are so many ways Catholic education has enriched my life, from walking through the door and being greeted by the wonderful staff to the campus ministry team that always encourages us to explore the aspect of service in our lives. I found mentorship from my teachers, who answered all my questions and would give up countless lunch hours to explain and teach us more. I found the effects of my Catholic education at Cotter everywhere, not just through the presence of faith,
but in the kindness and compassion that can be found in every person around me. Catholic education gave me the mentors and the safe spaces I needed to learn and accomplish my goals. These fundamentals of faith and morals are brought into our literature courses, history lessons, and political conversations. This community allowed me to explore the Catholic faith in a more holistic way: through classrooms, Masses, community, and it's all become part of my everyday life. To me, this is the true meaning of a Catholic education.
Throughout my four years of Catholic education at Cotter High School, I have had the opportunity to ask questions and pursue my faith to the fullest, not only in my religion class but in all of my classes. Yet, in between all of the tests, final projects, sports, and graduation is one more important day: April 27. The canonization day of future St. Carlo Acutis. [Note: Due to the death of Pope Francis, the date of Blessed Carlo Acutis' canonization was postponed.] As this date passes, we begin to understand more clearly the importance of a Catholic education. As one of our youngest saints, Carlo Acutis continues to inspire many young Catholics to pursue faith to the fullest in this modern age. It is of incredible importance that Catholic education continues to be fulfilled throughout our diocese, to grow this faith. This is why I intend to continue my education at a Catholic college next fall, to continue to be educated by mentors and teachers in a way that combines my faith with my intended path of learning. So as I move onto the next stage of my life, I can continue to explore the Catholic way in my home, community, and college campus.
Madaline Modjeski is a 2025 graduate of Cotter High School in Winona.
My Identity in Christ
By LILY URBAN
�hy choose a Catholic education? Coming from a high school student, I believe that going to Catholic schools for my whole life has not only helped me find my identity in Christ, but guided me to become a better student, leader, friend, and person. I am
Vicky Vazquez is a 2025 graduate of Pacelli High School in Austin.
Graduates,
grateful for my parent’s decision in allowing me to attend Catholic schools my whole life. My identity and pride as a Catholic has been strengthened by the opportunities the Rochester Catholic Schools system has provided, such as retreats, prayer services, and Masses. Even in everyday classes, the chance to have a prayer before the lessons sets the space that a Catholic school aims for. I know in my own experience that the connections and relationships I have formed with fellow classmates, and especially teachers, will have longlasting impacts on my life and they have touched my heart and led me to greater meditations on the faith. As a result of my experience in Rochester Catholic Schools, I have decided to maintain, and even deepen, my experience of Catholic education by attending Benedictine College in Atchison, KS. Benedictine College promotes having a Catholic identity and forming a generation of men and women who continue to live out the faith and share the beliefs through their future careers and lifestyles. Catholic education is most important when we, as students, are sent out into the world to become witnesses of the Gospel through our words and actions, reflecting on what we have learned.
Lily Urban is a 2025 graduate of Lourdes High School in Rochester.
Growing into Who We're Meant to Be
By COLLIN KIRSCHNER
thank you to the teachers, the staff, and the volunteers of Loyola Catholic School, who have helped make our home what it has been for the last four years. Thank you to our parents for choosing to send us to Loyola Catholic School, because without them, we would not be where we are today. And, most of all, thank you to the Class of 2025, my family.
We’ve spent years together under these same ceilings, on these same sidewalks, same
playground, and in classrooms filled with laughter. We have been there for each other through every pivotal moment: kindergarten graduation, getting lost on the first day of middle school, and, finally, walking through these doors as high school students one last time.
We have changed not just physically, but in deeper ways. We’ve become people who ask better questions, who understand more about the world, more about ourselves, and people who aren’t afraid to challenge things when they don’t feel right. We didn’t realize it at the time, but we were learning how to be more resilient. How to keep showing up. How to care.
Each one of us has a different story, a different path ahead. Because the future isn’t some distant thing waiting to happen, it’s already here, unfolding in each decision, each mistake, each chance that we take.
I hope we stay curious. I hope we keep learning, stumbling, getting back up, loving, and growing. I hope we keep choosing kindness, to others, and ourselves. Because there’s one thing I know for sure, it’s that this Loyola class of 2025, this family, is capable of incredible things. We’re finally growing into who we’re meant to be.
Thank you for being my people, my home, my beginning. This isn’t just the end of high school, it’s the beginning of everything.
Collin Kirschner is a 2025 graduate of Loyola Catholic School in Mankato.
Loyola Catholic School Introduces Eucharistic Adoration
Submitted by CLAUDIA ROESLER
MANKATO - Loyola Catholic School took a significant step in deepening the spiritual lives of its community this year with the introduction of Eucharistic Adoration for all students and staff. The initiative was led by elementary principal Shannon Campbell, who invited Fr. Tom Melvin, the school’s Priest Delegate, to help bring this sacred tradition to life.
To ensure students were prepared for the experience, Fr. Melvin visited each class to explain the meaning and purpose of Adoration. His age-appropriate and heartfelt teachings helped students understand the Real Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist and the invitation to sit quietly with him in prayer.
“Fr. Tom helped our students see that Adoration is a time to simply be with Jesus - to listen, reflect, and rest in his presence,” said Principal Campbell. “It’s a beautiful way to grow in faith.”
Every student at Loyola participated in Adoration three times over the course of the year. Sessions were structured to match students’ developmental levels, fostering a reverent and peaceful environment for prayer and personal reflection.
But the experience didn’t end with students. Faculty and staff also took part in Adoration, demonstrating that the journey of faith is lifelong. Their participation served as a powerful example to students, showing that seeking closeness with Jesus is something we are called to do not just in childhood, but throughout every stage of life.
“Our staff are leaders by example,” School President Dr. Claudia Roesler noted. “By joining students in Adoration, they showed that our focus on Christ isn’t limited to religion class or chapel - it’s at the heart of who we are.”
Loyola’s theology teachers also played an essen-
tial role by intentionally incorporating Adoration into their teaching. Secondary Principal John Landkamer reflected on the value this added for older students:
“Our theology teachers made a point to take students to Adoration as an extension of what they were learning in class,” Landkamer said. “It’s a way to move the conversation about faith beyond the classroom and into a practice students can carry with them long after they leave Loyola.”
Many in the Loyola community have already witnessed the fruits of this practice. Students reported feeling more peaceful, more centered, and more
aware of God’s presence. Staff reflected on how the stillness of Adoration helped renew their own faith and sense of purpose.
This new tradition has become a transformative part of the school year, and Loyola Catholic School plans to continue offering Eucharistic Adoration in the future. Rooted in love, prayer, and reverence, the practice serves as a reminder that, no matter our age, we are all called to grow closer to God - together. Claudia Roesler is the president of Loyola Catholic School in Mankato.
Rev. Msgr. Thomas Melvin teaches Loyola students about Eucharistic Adoration.
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Modern Day Disciples in Healthcare Curatio Apostolate Turning Burnout into a Steady Flame
By DIANNE JOHNSON, MA, RN
uratio was formed in 2001 as an approved apostolate in the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis with the mission of strengthening the faith of Catholics in healthcare so animated from the heart of Christ that we are equipped to reclaim our sacred vocation of caring. The apostolate thanks Bishop Barron for welcoming us into the Diocese of Winona-Rochester. All are invited to the Feast of the Sacred Heart June 27 at Resurrection Church in Rochester! Please see the accompanying flyer [pg.15] with details.
Many of us who work in healthcare know we are living through some kind of a crisis in meaning in our work to care for the sick. The very purpose of healthcare seems to be at odds. What is healthcare for? What does it mean to be a good healthcare professional?
Many years ago, a moral theologian, Professor Christian Brugger, spoke at a Curatio event, and he was asked this very question. He remarked that “as a Christian if you don’t hang an IV antibiotic, help a patient to the bathroom or insert an NG, for the honor and glory of God, then you might as well get the hell out, because anyone can do that task.” You could hear a pin drop. He continued to say that, as Catholics in healthcare, as followers of Christ, as an apostolate in healthcare, our main duty is to carry out Christ’s mission to care for the sick, and all for the honor and glory of God. My immediate thought was: What a lofty and exalted mission we have! And my second thought was one of self-defense. How exactly can I do that in practice in a highly demanding environment that is extremely busy and short-staffed, with patients who are so sick? And, honestly, can I really do it for the honor and glory of God? Or do I do it because it makes me feel better and I get recognition and the proverbial pat on the back?
Recently, I accompanied my husband to the hospital. He has significant heart issues and was scheduled for a specialized but serious heart procedure. In the waiting room, I came face to face with heartache, anguish and suffering in other patients, families, and medical staff I met that morning. I remember feeling helpless for my husband and for all the others. I simply could not change anything. What I saw that morning in the somber faces glued to their cell phones, were people rarely glancing at the other families or even making eye contact with the patient sitting right next to them. At least to me, it felt like, even though we were all in one room, we were all alone. We would perk up now and then, listening for our name when a nurse called out to let us know we could go back to the procedure room. Occasionally, a doctor or nurse would come to the waiting room and quietly
talk to family members. It was sheer delight for me when a staff member broke the pervasive mood with reassuring confident words of comfort to someone.
Sitting there that morning, and freely admitting I am a recovering type-A nurse, I began to think along these lines: that I need to do it; that I need to fix this; indeed, that I need to fix it magnificently. How does anyone else handle overwhelming, widespread discouragement - and not just temporarily, like this one time in a waiting room? So, doing the best I could in that moment, I was as friendly and pleasant as one could be, knowing many hearts were silently suffering as I was. In my weakness of not knowing what else to do, and by the grace of God, I found myself praying for everyone in the waiting room. It seemed trivial at the time. Only now, late in life, I am learning that sometimes little things done with love are actually big things in the eyes of God. Little things at least for me actually take quite an effort - things like smiling at your co-worker when you don’t really feel like it, or taking the time to hold the hand of a patient who has been anxious the entire shift and has put the call button on a dozen times even though you have a zillion more things to do before your shift ends. I am not a moral theologian but I think it means a lot in God’s eyes because, for once in a blue moon, he sees that I take my eyes off myself, and really care about my neighbor’s needs.
The fact is, knowing what we want to do is not the same as doing it. I am keenly aware of how I fail. When we started Curatio in 2001, I chose the 1995 edition of the Charter for Healthcare Workers as a template, and it serves as a model and a guide for the Curatio Apostolate “sent out” as apostles into the world of healthcare.
The first paragraph reads: “The work of health care persons is a very valuable service to life, it expresses a profoundly human and Christian commitment, not only as a technical activity but also one of dedication and love of neighbor.” True love, then, is to love and serve as Christ loves and serves. For us, as health care workers, it is to see Christ in our patients and co-workers and to bring Christ’s love to them. But here is the hard part: our vocation as health care workers places us right in the midst of suffering. The truth is healthcare is really tough work. Nurses, doctors and all healthcare professionals face exceptional burdens inherent in our work. Any emotional, psychological, physical, or intellectual strengths one starts out with in healthcare are at risk to be replaced with professional distancing and burn out. We learn quickly what our limits are. To be clear, our daily mission needs to be nourished by accompanying spirituality, and by God’s grace.
Witnessing suffering, pain and death, day in and out, is not for the faint of heart. At some point, many
of us healthcare workers, either by slow burnout or compassion fatigue, either want out of healthcare altogether or simply show up and go through the motions, a shell of our former selves. It is a frightening place to be. We feel empty, dried out inside and have nothing to give to help another who is sick or dying. And when the burnout is overwhelming, the compassion fatigue is debilitating and the interior call to care for our sick and dying neighbor vanishes because we can’t give anymore. We not only lose heart, we lose ourselves. The flicker of light we had burns out. We punch in and out doing the bare minimum just to get through the day or night. As a last resort we cry out to God to fix the mess, as the very ground we thought we knew intimately is shaking. It’s not only a cultural earthquake. It’s a personal one.
We in Curatio can testify to God’s answer to this difficulty, only he did not change the diagnosis or the mess we are in; he changed our hearts. And the answer wasn’t in the earthquake, but in a small, still voice.
[The prophet Elijah] came to a cave, where he took shelter. But the word of the Lord came to him: Why are you here, Elijah? He answered: “I have been most zealous for the Lord, the God of hosts, but the Israelites have forsaken your covenant. They have destroyed your altars and murdered your prophets by the sword. I alone remain, and they seek to take my life.” Then the Lord said: Go out and stand on the mountain before the Lord; the Lord will pass by. There was a strong and violent wind rending the mountains and crushing rocks before the Lord—but the Lord was not in the wind; after the wind, an earthquake—but the Lord was not in the earthquake; after the earthquake, fire—but the Lord was not in the fire; after the fire, a light silent sound. When he heard this, Elijah hid his face in his cloak and went out and stood at the entrance of the cave. (1 Kings 19:9-13)
What I and others have experienced in Curatio is that sometimes God doesn’t change our circumstances. He changes how we perceive them. By God’s grace we start to realize we cannot give what we do not have. And while we all need love and faith during this time, what we need more than anything right now in healthcare is hope. “Hope is essential. It is not found somewhere at life’s margins. It is its heart muscle, the myocardium. If it stops we die.” (Godfried Cardinal Danneels, Archbishop of Maloney - Brussels Preface to St. Therese of Lisieux: Her Life, Times and Teachings, ICS Publications, Washington) The reality is we live in a culture that seems hopeless, that only sees exterior appearances, things
Healthcare, cont'd on pg. 16
Minnesota Catholic Conference Inside the Capitol
Why Undocumented Immigrants Should Have Access to Healthcare
By MINNESOTA CATHOLIC CONFERENCE
�innesota Catholic Conference (MCC), and its partner organization, the Catholic Health AssociationMinnesota, have long advocated for allowing the state’s undocumented immigrant community, particularly children, to access health insurance through MinnesotaCare.
Access was granted in the 2023 legislative session, yet enrollment has outpaced initial expectations. With a tight budget forecast, some legislators are proposing that access to this subsidized program for low-income Minnesotans be eliminated. MCC is opposed to the cuts, especially for children.
Whether the program will be more expensive than anticipated is unclear and, either way, we are inviting lawmakers to find creative ways to preserve healthcare access for immigrants while controlling costs.
Healthcare Access Comes Through Insurance
Like it or not, unless you are able to afford often prohibitive out-of-pocket expenses for healthcare, you rely on some form of health insurance, whether purchased on the insurance market, provided by your employer, or accessed through a government program. That is the system that we have. MinnesotaCare, the state’s subsidized health insurance program, gives low-income people who do not qualify for Medicaid the opportunity to purchase at a reduced cost a basic healthcare plan.
Healthcare,
cont'd from pg. 14
that can be measured and quantified, as the most important. We fail to see with our heart. We fail to see with a sacramental vision that sees the interior, invisible realities of others as having a soul destined for eternity as the ultimate and most important.
Our Lord himself tells us to lean on his heart: “Come to me all who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest.” (Matthew 11:28) The ultimate place of rest is the Sacred Heart. It is a place to do nothing. It ultimately is a place to be loved; to be comforted. But how do we do this? How do we see with our heart when everything around us seems dire and full of suffering?
Bishop Erik Varden describes how we in healthcare can navigate the suffering we encounter with love . He affirms that we find the “how” we do this in the Sacred Heart:
To live is at times to suffer. When (St.) Paul affirms that Christ’s love is inseparable from us, it is not by means of a promise that we shall be kept invulnerable; rather he tells us that pain
In general, undocumented immigrants are ineligible for Medicaid and cannot access the Affordable Care Act’s insurance marketplace. So, unless an undocumented immigrant has the means for very expensive commercial insurance, MinnesotaCare is the only option for him or her.
Because immigrants have a right to treatment, they can access emergency services, which ends up being extremely costly to both the insurance pool and the taxpayer. It is for those reasons, and others, that many healthcare provider organizations - including the Minnesota Hospital Association and the Minnesota Medical Association - supported the MinnesotaCare Immigrant Inclusion Act in 2023.
But Why Are We 'Rewarding Illegals?'
Refusing to provide access to health insurance or other services based solely on one’s legal status is a simplistic and blunt approach to a more complex problem. Businesses, advocacy groups, and politicians have long taken advantage of our broken immigration system to induce many people to come here, and those who do can rarely get legal status or citizenship. As the late Pope Francis said, immigrants are sometimes treated like “pawns on the chessboard of humanity.”
The system needs to be fixed at the federal level, and not just with a more secure border. Until then, as Minnesotans we can take steps to ensure the dignity and needs of our immigrant brothers and sisters, such as providing access to basic services to all people.
can be illumined and despair dispelled by Jesus’ love. If we make of that love our dwelling place and constant criterion of judgement, speech and action, it will envelop us like a coat of arms whose parts articulate virtues flowing from love: truth, righteousness, peace and faith. On our head will be the helmet of salvation. Our hands will wield the Spirit’s sword. Our feet will bear us wherever we must go to proclaim the Gospel of peace. We shall not be beyond the reach of the ‘wiles of the evil one’, but we shall be equipped to withstand them. That is what matters. To know the love alive in Christ’s heart is to stand unflinching in trial and thereby to discover in our weakness a strength not our own. The Sacred Heart of Jesus provides for this reality of battle and communion a spatial imagery that complements the metaphors of armour. The heart is supremely sensitive. At the same time it is unbelievably robust. Anyone who has sat at a deathbed, observing the heart’s faithfully ongoing thump when the rest of the physical organism has shut down, will have been awed by this fact. The heart of Jesus is an environment within which we can confront life’s hardship without need for recourse to pious wishful thinking. We can face whatever it is as it is, open-eyed, and yet not be overwhelmed, contained by and united with this invincible engine of salvific life and strength, inexhaustibly compassionate in its humanity, in its divinity a source of incomprehensible peace. The
Undocumented immigrants, the vast majority of whom will not likely be deported, are willing to pay insurance premiums to receive healthcare access. The program need not be free or cheaper than what U.S. citizens pay. But they do need access to health insurance as healthcare is an important component of stewarding the gift of life that God has given to each of us.
State budgets are a moral document and should prioritize the protection of human dignity before other amenities. Those amenities include renovations to sports arenas, and what are essentially subsidies for favored political allies, whether businesses, unions, or the government itself.
Education, shelter, healthcare (including for the elderly, immigrant, chronically ill, and those with disability), a social safety net for the poor and vulnerable, and relieving the economic burden on families who are doing the most important work of raising the next generation should be budget priorities. And, in general, Minnesota can be proud of its track record. But it does not mean that further adjustments cannot be made to existing programs, or that spending priorities cannot be reconfigured to meet these goals.
Protecting the MinnesotaCare program should remain a key priority for Catholics in solidarity with our immigrant brothers and sisters
The Minnesota Catholic Conference has been the public policy voice of the Catholic Church in Minnesota since 1967. The voting members of the MCC's board of directors are Minnesota's Catholic bishops.
Sacred Heart lets us own the human condition, even at its most imperiled, within a milieu divine. (Excerpt from Varden, Erik, Healing Wounds, The 2025 Lent book (e-book version) Bloomsbury Continuum 1st edition pg. 129 in Chapter Ad Cor-To the Heart)
Perhaps with practice others in Curatio could specialize in this mission, doing little things with love, not overwhelmed, still owning our human condition but from within the Heart of Christ, doing it for the honor and glory of God. St.Teresa of Calcutta reminds us that, at the end of our life Jesus will not ask us, “What great things did we do for Him?” But rather He will ask “How much love did we put into our caring?” Healthcare professionals and those who care for the sick, whether they know it or not, whether they are Catholic or not, have a unique mission and possess an uncanny mysterious ability to hold in tension life and death, joy and suffering, the sacred and the mundane. May each of us in healthcare respond enthusiastically to the call to love in the very midst of our mission to care: “Here I am Lord, send me!” (Isaiah 6:8).
Is any among you sick? Let….them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord; and the prayer of faith will save the sick man, and the Lord will raise him up; and if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. (James 5:14–15)
Dianne Johnson is the mission director for Curatio.
Foundation Turns Over a New Leaf
Submitted by THE CATHOLIC FOUNDATION OF SOUTHERN MINNESOTA
there is a new energy reshaping the Catholic Foundation of Southern Minnesota. We are pleased to welcome two new team members to our organization! Hear from our current team and meet our new team members here:
Our New Executive Director
Elizabeth Williams is a Southern Minnesota native, raised in the Diocese of WinonaRochester. She shared, "As the daughter of a dairy farmer and social worker, I learned from an early age how following your purpose in your professional life makes work so much more meaningful and hopefully pretty enjoyable too! I bring to this executive director role 15 years of experience in marketing, sales and operations for Fortune 500 brands, B2B technology companies and staffing agencies, the likes of AT&T, Dell and DuPont Pioneer among others.
I value hard work, accountability and integrity and get geeky about using data to improve everything we do. I’m grateful for the opportunity to share the skills and experiences I have gained in the corporate space with the Catholic Foundation of Southern Minnesota - bringing me back to my roots and a purposeful mission."
Elizabeth resides in Faribault with her husband and three young children. In her spare time, you’ll find her chasing kids to soccer games and Girl Scouts, working with her husband and extended family on their real estate investment business, or reading a good book in the shade on a sunny day.
You can reach her at ewilliams@catholicfsmn. org or 507-218-4095 if you’d like to talk about planned giving, parish-listening programs, capital campaigns or fundraising.
Welcome, Elizabeth!
Our New Marketing and Communications Associate
Nicole Weninger was raised in the Diocese of La Crosse and is like fresh spring air to the Foundation. Nicole is a shared resource between the Catholic Foundation and Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary. She comes to us with a breadth of experience, having previously designed, marketed and fully operated youth programs for the YMCA of the North in Rochester! Nicole received her bachelor's degree from SMU in studio art and literature. Some of her fondest memories from SMU are of getting to know seminarians in her art and philosophy classes.
“I’m very excited to be back and working with this particular group of men again - truly some of the funniest and most talented men I've had the pleasure of getting to know,” Nicole shared.
So far, Nicole is most proud of her and the team’s work on the annual Bishop’s and Rector Dinner. See page 1 for the complete article on the event’s success.
Nicole commented, "I'm excited to be working for an organization that can help me to explore my passion for marketing while also deepening my faith. I've had a blast meeting the priests throughout the diocese and seminarians at Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary, and I look forward to learning how I can best serve the Diocese of Winona-Rochester."
If you want a good laugh, ask Nicole about her family divided - Wisconsin versus Minnesota sports. You can reach her at nweninger@catholicfsmn.org or 507-828-1275 if you have questions about the Seeds of Faith Tuition Assistance grant program or if you’d like to talk about IHMS.
Welcome, Nicole!
D�d y�u kn�� the Catholic Ministries Appeal funds diocesan-led faith formation, such as youth camps, Newman Centers on college campuses, and adult and lay formation? The CMA supports parish services and evangelization, not to mention TV Mass, our Catholic schools, and priest education and care.
We want to express our deepest gratitude to all who have contributed thus far, and to remind you that every donor and every dollar counts.
Congratulations to the following parishes, which have already met their goals for the 2025 CMA! Every dollar given beyond the parish’s goal is returned to the parish to address local needs!
Adams
Sacred Heart
Easton
Our Lady of Mount Carmel
Good Thunder
Saint Joseph
Grand Meadow
Saint Finbarr
Hayfield
Sacred Heart
Heron Lake
Sacred Heart
Johnsburg
Saint John
LeRoy
Saint Patrick
Lyle
Queen of Peace
Medford
Christ the King
Owatonna
Sacred Heart
Rose Creek
Saint Peter
Spring Valley
Saint Ignatius
Winona
Saint Casimir
If you haven’t yet donated, we ask that you prayerfully consider God’s call and give your gift of time, talent, and treasure to support the Catholic Ministries Appeal.
The Existing Foundation Team You Know & Trust
A new leaf has been turned in the Catholic Foundation. Take it from those who know: I am very excited about the future of the Foundation with the team we have now. As Elizabeth has been gaining her footing, she has brought us a renewed sense of momentum and a surplus of new ideas and goals. Ideas that will only benefit our office and, by extension, all the organizations and people we work to support.
Nicole has proven herself to be hardworking, creative and endlessly collaborative, which has been a true blessing. Any organization would be lucky to have them, but I’m glad they chose CFSM. I look forward to working with them both as we strive to serve the people of our Diocese.
- Morgan Lowney, CFSM Development Specialist
We all have one mission in mind and that is to support each other and to help where it is needed. We pride ourselves on our quality of work and the ability to help others. With Elizabeth Williams, our new Executive Director, and Nicole Weninger as our new marketing associate, we feel the Foundation can continue to grow and provide additional resources to our diocese and our parish families. Elizabeth and Nicole will truly be assets to the Foundation.
- Kelly Hoffman, CFSM Controller.
Be Bold Believers
By SHELLY HOLT
� am privileged as the Winona-Rochester DCCW President to attend other diocesan conferences and conventions. Diocesan Treasurer Dianne Vangness and I attended the New Ulm Diocesan Convention in Tracy. The theme was Be Bold Believers. The Keynote speaker was Camille Pauley of the pro-life non-profit Healing the Culture, who along with Fr. Robert J. Spitzer, S.J., PhD, talked about the principles which form the thought and moral development around the Dignity of Human Life.
We attended a breakout session with Congressman Brad Finstad and his wife, Jackie (former New Ulm Diocesan CCW president).
Brad said the founding fathers of the United States built our country guided in God's truth. He described the House chambers as his favorite place in the “People’s Government” and said he loves to give tours when constituents come to visit. He described the House Chambers having around the perimeter of the walls the profile images of the founders and other important truth tellers. The only outward-facing image is of Moses looking down on the speaker’s podium. On our money is the phrase In God We Trust. Brad noted he represents the 750,000 very diverse people of District 1. Brad stated the principle of separation of church and state means the government cannot declare a specific faith or religion practice for the whole country. We cannot be afraid to be bold in our Catholic beliefs!
Dianne Vangness will be installed as the St. Paul and Minneapolis Province Director at the National Council of Catholic Women’s Convention in Orlando, FL, in August and serve on the National Board for the next two years. I was elected to the NCCW Nominating Committee whose purpose is to
President Shelly Holt (L) and Treasurer Diane Vangness attended the New Ulm Diocesan CCW Board Meeting in Milroy on Friday night, before the Saturday convention in Tracy.
recruit candidates to run for National office. Consider coming to convention if you can. There is funding available through your church, area, or on the diocesan level.
We have an awesome convention planned for this year in Adrian on Saturday, October 11. See the flyer on pg. 19. We are his body!
Shelly Holt is the president of the WinonaRochester Diocesan Council of Catholic Women.
Parish Events
June 18, Wednesday
St. Bernard Church, Stewartville, is the location for a 40th Anniversary of Ordination celebration for Fr. Kevin Connolly, current pastor of St. Bernard and St. Bridget, from 4:30-6:30 p.m. All are invited to attend.
June 22, Sunday
St. Ann Church, Slayton, is the location for a celebration of Fr. Peter Schuster's 30 years of priesthood, following 10 a.m. Mass. The parish cluster of St. Ann, St. Gabriel, Immaculate Heart of Mary, St. Anthony, and any others are all invited to come. A lunch of barbecue, chips, cake and beverages will be served. If you are unable to make it, cards can be mailed to Father's attention at St. Ann Church, 2747 29th St., Slayton, MN 56172.
July 13, Sunday
St. John the Baptist Parish, Johnsburg, will host its Jamboree 12-6 p.m. at the church, following 11 a.m. Polka Mass.
The Televised Mass Is Offered Every Sunday
Sioux Falls - ODLT 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.
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")
