Minnesota’s Most Rural Diocese Diocese of New Ulm Vol. 39 No. 5 March 2025
“Repent and believe in the Gospel”
NEW ULM – St. Mary’s parishioner Noelle Foster receives ashes from Bishop Chad Zielinski during the Ash Wednesday Mass celebrated at the Church of St. Mary in New Ulm. Ash Wednesday marks the begining of Lent, a season of repentance.
(Photo by Christine Clancy)
Bishop to place diocese under the protection
Feeding those in need in the Madison area
Volunteers Marg Berge left, and Judy Nelson help at a food truck distribution hosted by the Church of St. Michael in Madison. The parish partners annually with the Lac qui Parle Community Food Shelf and the Diocese of New Ulm to help feed those in need. (Read more about the food distribution, page 7.)
of Our Lady of the Prairie
Rededication takes place at the Cathedral in New Ulm on June 22
by Katie Roiger Prairie Catholic correspondent
NEW ULM – Our Lady has many titles that encourage her children to turn to her in confidence and hope, and her evocative local name, “Our Lady of the Prairie,” is no exception.
Rededicating the Diocese of New Ulm to the Blessed Mother under this name has been on Bishop Chad Zielinski’s heart almost since his installation in September 2022. Combined with a specially commissioned painting and a pilgrimage evoking the area’s history, the rededication is intended to encourage parishioners to renew their relationship with Mary and seek her intercession.
In his previous role as the bishop of Fairbanks, Alaska, Bishop Zielinski understood the
importance of understanding an area’s culture and history in order to understand its people.
The bishop’s far-flung former diocese encompassed several ethnicities, including many whose faith backgrounds extended to the Jesuits’ first visit in the 1800s.
Regardless of personal history or location, Bishop Zielinski found that healing and hope are two uniting elements that the faithful consistently seek.
“There is a profound need for healing,” the bishop said of the Church at large, adding that in Fairbanks, one very effective tool for spreading the message of divine healing was a local painting titled “Our Lady of the Arctic Snows.” The painting depicts the Blessed Mother and her infant son as Yupik Eskimos, wearing traditional garments. The
of Our Lady of the Prairie. (Photo submitted)
bishop had a prayer coin created with the image on one side, and he frequently gave them away on visits.
“I would give it to suffering people and say, ‘I’m praying for you,’ and sometimes when I came back later, they still had this coin,” he said.
After familiarizing himself with New Ulm, Bishop Zielinski wanted to emphasize the same message of healing in the parishes and area faith communities throughout the diocese. A search for a local image of Our Lady of the Prairie found only one statue in Bird Island, so the bishop expanded his quest. This led him to Damien Walker, founder of The Studio of St. Philomena in New Zealand. Walker specializes in
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Pope Francis: Lent calls us to journey together in hope
VATICAN CITY – In his message for Lent 2025, Pope Francis emphasized the importance of living one’s life as a constant journey of conversion, choosing to walk in peace and hope aside one’s fellow humans.
“May the hope that does not disappoint, the central message of the jubilee, be the focus of our Lenten journey toward the victory of Easter,” the pope said in his message.
The message, signed February 6, before the pope was hospitalized February 14 for treatment of double pneumonia, was released by the Vatican February 25.
In his message, the pontiff wrote that this Lent is an opportunity to consider three areas where one may be in greater need of conversion: journeying with others, being synodal, and having hope.
Pope Francis cited the Catechism of the Catholic Church on the virtue of hope, which calls hope the “sure and steadfast anchor of the soul.” “Thanks to God’s love in Jesus Christ, we are sustained in the hope that does not disappoint,” the pope said, adding that hope “moves the Church to pray for ‘everyone to be saved’ (1 Tm 2:4) and to look forward to her being united with Christ,
her bridegroom, in the glory of heaven.”
Comparing the Lenten journey to the Israelites’ exodus from slavery in Egypt, he recalled “our brothers and sisters who in our own day are fleeing situations of misery and violence in search of a better life for themselves and their loved ones.”
“A first call to conversion thus comes from the realization that all of us are pilgrims in this life,” he wrote. “Am I really on a journey, or am I standing still, not moving, either immobilized by fear and hopelessness or reluctant to move out of my comfort zone?”
The pontiff also emphasized the importance of journeying together, saying Christians are called to walk “side by side, without shoving or stepping on others, without envy or hypocrisy, without letting anyone be left behind or excluded.”
He concludes by entrusting this journey of hope to the intercession of the Virgin Mary, “Mother of Hope,” praying that she may accompany the faithful as we prepare to celebrate the joy of Easter.
To read the pope’s 2025 Lenten message in its entirety visit www. vatican.va.
Damien Walker, founder of The Studio of Saint Philomena in New Zealand, award winning artist, restorer, gilder and consultant has been commissioned by Bishop Zielinski to create an icon artwork
(Photo by Kathy Nelson)
by Bishop Chad W. Zielinski
Restoration of The Temple - The Glorification of The Mystical Body of Christ
In 1998, I spent three months in Cuernavaca, Mexico, in a Spanish language immersion course. I happened to be there for the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord in the Temple, a widely celebrated feast in Mexico. Prior to the Mass, I visited a family that had a small altar in their home with the infant Christ placed on it. I recall the four family children politely arguing with their mother about who would carry the baby Jesus in the procession during Mass. What a joy it was to see these young children embrace this dignified duty as an honor and special blessing.
During Mass, the infant Christ image was blessed by the parish priest, and the family brought it back to their home as a reminder
PTHERA RIE CATHOLIC
The Prairie Catholic, the official newspaper for the Diocese of New Ulm since May 1972, is published every six weeks, Sept.–June.
Publisher: Bishop Chad W. Zielinski
Editor: Christine E. Clancy
Submission deadline is the 1st of each month prior to publication.
Publication office: Diocesan Pastoral Center, 1421 6th Street North, New Ulm, MN 56073; phone: 507-359-2966, Email: dnu@dnu.org Website: www.dnu.org
Postmaster: Send notice on Form 3579, “The Prairie Catholic,” 1421 6th Street North, New Ulm, MN 56073-2071. Periodical postage paid at New Ulm and additional mailing offices. USPS 926-760.
diocesan church
That they may have life
that they long for Christ the Messiah, who is always welcome in the temple of their home.
This witness of the celebration of the Feast of the Presentation made it a very real and lived encounter with Christ in their home. I will cherish this memory for years to come.
We recently celebrated the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord on Sunday, Feb. 2. This feast is profoundly significant and intimately linked to the historical reality of the life of Israel. In the Bible, Simeon and Anna, faithful Jews who had waited all their lives for Jesus the Messiah, represent that ancient longing for the return of the Savior, which we prayerfully enter during Advent.
Simeon acknowledges that the newborn savior/king fulfills the Old Covenant. However, he will bring division because he will be rejected. This we know from the time of Christ to this very day. Simeon tells Mary that a sword will pierce her soul, which happens as a sword pierces the heart of Christ, pouring forth the blood of the New Covenant from the Cross on Calvary. This sacrifice unites us all in our shared faith and journey.
Later in his years, Jesus explains that the restoration of the temple is not about a building. In John 2:1325, we read about Jesus cleansing the temple. They demand a sign
from him, and he responds, “Destroy this temple, and in three days, I will raise it up.” John notes that the people were confused, but Jesus was speaking of the temple of Christ’s Body.
Every time we celebrate Mass and hear the priest pronounce the words of institution, we hear Christ offering his Body and Blood as the new and eternal covenant. These words pronounced by Christ in the Upper Room instituted the Mass and the priesthood, uniting this offering to the sacrifice of his Body on Calvary. Three days later, the temple of his Body is restored, the priesthood is cleansed, and humanity is redeemed, healed, and renewed in his Rising from the dead – the glorification of the Mystical Body of Christ, which is the Church, a community of believers united in Christ. This glorification is the greatest news of Salvation History.
I have a print in my home chapel of a famous painting by Caravaggio. It is entitled “The Incredulity of St. Thomas.” Caravaggio powerfully captures St. Thomas, putting his finger in the wound on the side of Christ. Thomas can only do this because Christ has Risen. There are many images of the Risen Christ painted over the centuries with wounds on his hands and sides. Yes, the Mystical Body of Christ, His Church, has wounds to this very day. The wounds make no sense
and have no meaning unless they are united to the Body of the Risen Christ.
As a priest of 28 years, I have encountered the good people of God in conversation, seeking prayer, physical and mental healing, pouring out their souls in confession, and asking Jesus the Divine Physician to touch and forgive them. Jesus always responds but in different ways. Each time we approach Christ with any woundedness, he glorifies these wounds. The wounds may not be immediately healed or forgotten, but we experience hope, and the healing journey begins because Christ wants our wounds united to his Glorified Body.
I genuinely see reflecting upon the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord in the Temple and its historical significance as an excellent preparation for entering into our Lenten journey. We should ask ourselves, “What do I need to do to invite the Holy Spirit into my temple, the innermost depths of being, to shed light on those things that need to be cleansed, forgiven, and healed?”
As we begin with the restoration of our own temple, what about the temple of our family? Does it seem at times that God has left the temple? If so, unite the family to usher God into the temple because he wants to dwell there no matter how messy. All we must do is turn to him and invite him to bring a
healing and cleansing presence to our family temple. Inviting the Holy Spirit is the key to this process, empowering and guiding our spiritual journey.
As I reflect on the restoration of the temple, I fully realize many in the diocese have experienced a closure or merger of a parish or “temple.” Each situation is different and unique. My home parish is no longer a parish but united to three other parishes. It was a challenge for all four parish communities to come together in a uniting and healing process. As I return periodically to celebrate Mass at the merged parishes, I clearly see that it was not the church building where I grew up but the newly restored temple and community where Christ continues to dwell. It is here in the people gathered for the sacrifice of the Mass that his Mystical Body is glorified.
My prayer for Lent is that each person, family, and Area Faith Community in the Diocese of New Ulm experience a restoration, healing, and renewal of the temple of God – the glorification of the Mystical Body of Christ. May Our Lady of the Prairie, a symbol of grace and intercession, lead us to her Son to experience this restoration, guiding us in our journey of faith and healing.
The bishop’s monthly calendar can be found at www.dnu.org.
Minnesota Catholic bishops call for ‘generous but also prudent’ welcome of refugees
by Catholic News Agency
The eight bishops of Minnesota released a statement February 7, 2025, advocating for “comprehensive immigration reform to fix our broken system” while urging the Trump administration to refrain from deporting migrants without criminal records.
“Sadly, our nation’s immigration system is broken. For too long, our laws on paper said ‘stop, no entry’ while in fact, for economic and political reasons, undocumented migrants were allowed inside, sometimes with the encouragement of business interests and even our government,” the statement from the eight bishops reads.
“As Pope Francis has said, migrants have been too often treated as ‘pawns on the chessboard of humanity,’” the bishops said. “Elected officials in both major political parties have failed to rise above political calculation and collaborate on a solution rooted in respect for migrants and the common good of the nation.”
“The Biden administration’s migration policies exacerbated these problems, and as a response, President Trump has resolved to instigate measures focused primarily on enforcement and deportations,” the statement reads.
The bishops called on citizens “to appeal to Congress and the president for comprehensive
reform of our broken system that includes resources for improved border security, a generous but also prudent welcome of refugees and those seeking asylum that does not overly burden local communities, and pathways to legal status for long-term undocumented residents.”
The bishops in the statement took issue with a Jan. 21 Department of Homeland Security (DHS) directive rescinding Biden-era guidelines that previously required Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents to seek their superior’s approval before arresting people at or near “sensitive locations” such as churches, hospitals, or schools.
“We appeal to the administration
for a revised order that would establish that, absent exigent circumstances, no immigration enforcement action may take place on Catholic church or school property without a properly executed warrant,” the statement reads.
The statement aligns with others from bishops across the nation in urging the administration to prioritize deporting “those with criminal records” rather than migrants without criminal records, many of whom have lived in the United States for years.
“We oppose any campaign of indiscriminate immigration enforcement that threatens to
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New report unveils $5.4 billion economic impact of the Catholic Church in Minnesota
Serving where government falls short, the Church strengthens communities and saves taxpayers billions.
ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Catholic Church in Minnesota is a pillar of faith and service, rooted in its primary mission - the salvation of souls. From the services provided, the Church also plays a significant role in Minnesota’s economic and social well-being.
A new report, released Feb. 24, 2025, by the Minnesota Catholic Conference, the public policy voice of the Catholic bishops of Minnesota, estimates that Catholic programs contribute over $5 billion annually to the state’s economy and serve 1.2 million people across various communities.
Fruits of the Vine: The Economic Impact of the Catholic Church in Minnesota, was commissioned by the Minnesota Catholic Conference and conducted by researchers from the University of Colorado and associated with the Institute for Policy Research at The Catholic University of America. The comprehensive study highlights
the often-overlooked economic contributions of the Catholic Church in Minnesota – both economically and socially. The report provides an overview of these benefits and the estimated monetary value of each.
“This report affirms the Catholic Church’s commitment to Minnesota goes beyond spiritual and moral leadership,” said Jason Adkins, Minnesota Catholic Conference Executive Director. “From creating jobs and supporting small businesses to easing the burden on taxpayerfunded programs, the Church delivers real, measurable benefits to Minnesotans in areas where government resources are limited. In return, all we ask of our elected leaders is the freedom to serve in accordance with our faith, without government interference.”
Significant report findings include:
• Healthcare: As the largest non-governmental provider of healthcare in the world, Catholic healthcare organizations in Minnesota contribute $3.2 billion annually through hospitals, longterm care facilities, hospice care, and home care services.
• Education: Catholic schools serve 40,000 students from pre-K
Catholic bishops: “Sadly our nation’s immigration system is broken”
(Continued from page 2.)
unnecessarily or unjustly separate the families of those we have come to know as our brothers and sisters in Christ,” the bishops said.
The statement also acknowledges the need for securing borders but calls for human dignity to be upheld while doing so.
“The fact that we advocate for comprehensive immigration reform and the just enforcement of laws against those already
residing here is not simple-minded advocacy for ‘open borders.’ We recognize that public officials have the responsibility of protecting their citizens and both promoting public safety and putting the needs of their people first.”
To read the bishops’ statement in its entirety, visit the Minnesota Conference of Catholic Bishops (MCC) website, www.mncatholic. org.
through high school in Minnesota. Combined, from pre-K through higher education, Catholic education organizations provide $1.45 billion in economic benefits to the state.
• Volunteer Service: Catholicaffiliated organizations contribute over 500,000 volunteer hours each year, serving over 80,000 people and generating a combined benefit of nearly $80 million.
• Events: Weddings, funerals, festivals, and other events hosted by the Catholic Church attract 900,000 visitors annually,
Graphic taken from Fruits of the Vine: The Economic Impact of the Catholic Church in Minnesota report.
contributing over $56 million to local economies through spending on food, services, and lodging. Beyond the direct economic impact, the report also examines the social impact of the Catholic Church, citing the critical role parishes and independent organizations play in feeding the hungry, sheltering the homeless, and providing direct financial aid to those most in need in Minnesota communities.
“These initiatives not only transform lives but also reduce the strain on public resources, demonstrating the Catholic
Church’s long-term mission of service,” Adkins said.
By releasing this report, the Minnesota Catholic Conference is highlighting the Church’s continued mission to serve Minnesota and inspire further collaboration with government agencies and community stakeholders to strengthen the state’s financial and social foundations.
To read Fruits of the Vine: The Economic Impact of the Catholic Church in Minnesota in its entirety visit www.mncatholic.org/ fruitsofthevine.
FRUI
Th e Ec ono mic Impact of the C at holi c Chu rc h in Minn
por Bishop Chad Zielinski
La Restauración del Templo –La Glorificación del Cuerpo Místico de Cristo
El Papa Francisco proclamó oficialmente el Jubileo de la Iglesia Católica para el año 2025 en una bula de convocación titulada “Spes Non Confudit”, que significa “La Esperanza No Defrauda.” En ella, alentó a los católicos a ser peregrinos de esperanza.
Desde el día de nuestro bautismo, nuestras almas fueron infundidas con las virtudes de fe, esperanza y caridad. Estas virtudes reflejan algo más profundo y son parte del plan divino en el que cada uno de nosotros fue creado a imagen y semejanza de Dios, reflejando nuestra relación de alianza con Él. Cada persona recibe este plan divino desde el momento de su concepción. Asimismo, se nos son dados talentos y habilidades particulares.
Como escribe Lucas en su Evangelio, cuando Jesús fue hallado enseñando en el templo de Jerusalén a los 12 años, María y José lo buscaron durante tres días. Estaban angustiados porque había desaparecido, pero perplejos cuando lo encontraron. “Hijo, ¿por qué nos has hecho esto? Tu padre y yo te hemos estado buscando con gran ansiedad.” Y Él les dijo: “¿Por qué me buscaban? ¿No sabían que yo debo estar en la casa de mi Padre?” (Lucas 2:48-49).
Jesús pasó cerca de 30 de sus 33 años terrenales en Nazaret, el hogar de la Sagrada Familia, a menudo llamado la “Escuela de Nazaret,” antes de comenzar su misión pública.
La Escuela de Nazaret es un modelo para nuestras familias y comunidades de fe. En nuestro bautismo, nuestros padres y padrinos (o nosotros mismos si ya teniamos uso de razón) hicieron (o hicimos) una promesa de criarnos (o crecer) en la práctica de la fe católica. Esencialmente, estamos llamados a crear una “Escuela de Nazaret” donde aprendamos sobre nuestra fe y crezcamos en nuestra
Para que tengan vida
comprensión de nuestro llamado a la santidad.
Cada uno de nosotros fue creado a imagen y semejanza de Dios. A medida que crecemos en edad y sabiduría, se nos otorgan talentos y habilidades únicas, así como una misión para vivir nuestro llamado a la santidad. Este es un proceso de toda la vida, un continuo ‘sí’ a este llamado.
El llamado a la acción del Papa Francisco durante este Año Jubilar incluye “signos de esperanza,” como el anhelo de paz en el mundo, la apertura a la vida y la paternidad responsable, y la cercanía a los prisioneros, los pobres, los enfermos, los jóvenes, los ancianos, los migrantes y las personas “en situaciones difíciles.” Nuestros talentos y habilidades únicos son esenciales para esta misión.
Por diversas razones, algunas personas pueden no ser visibles en el “radar,” pero son profundamente visibles para el corazón y la mente de Dios. Cada uno de nosotros tiene una responsabilidad de acercanos a estas personas y ser un faro de esperanza en sus vidas.
Cuando fui ordenado sacerdote el 8 de junio de 1996, mi primera asignación parroquial fue como vicario en la Inmaculada Concepción en Traverse City, Michigan. Durante el primer mes, el párroco me informó que cada primer viernes era tradición de los dos sacerdotes llevar la Sagrada Comunión a los enfermos en sus casas. Cuando llegó ese primer viernes, el P. Denny me lo recordó amablemente.
En mi mente, estaba ocupado con asuntos que consideraba más importantes. Me dieron una lista de unas diez personas para visitar con la idea de hacerlo rápidamente. Recuerdo haber ido primero a la casa de una mujer anciana que apenas podía moverse. Me dijo que rezaba cinco rosarios diarios por la parroquia y otras novenas.
Encontré historias similares en cada hogar que visité, y cada persona estaba profundamente agradecida de que les llevara la Presencia Real de Cristo en el Santísimo Sacramento. Como María corriendo hacia Isabel en la Visitación, yo era quien llevaba a Cristo, y como Isabel, ellos respondían con gran fe y gratitud.
Me sentí profundamente conmovido por su gratitud, humildad y santidad. No tenía idea de que esta experiencia de visitar a los enfermos en casa sería como caminar por una letanía viva de santos. Estaba tan ocupado intentando completar mi “lista de cosas pendientes” que no me di cuenta de que Cristo me enviaba como un peregrino de esperanza. Viviendo su llamado a la santidad como católicos bautizados imbuidos de fe, esperanza y amor, estas personas confinadas en casa se convirtieron en radiantes peregrinos de esperanza para mí.
Este año cumpliré 29 años como sacerdote, y esta experiencia sigue profundamente grabada en mi corazón y alma. Regreso a esta experiencia cuando me siento débil o cansado, recordándome el poder de estos peregrinos de esperanza confinados en casa. Desde ese día, cambié mi actitud y esperaba con ansias cada visita, donde encontraba fe y santidad. Siempre me iba de sus casas siendo un mejor sacerdote, lleno de esperanza.
Comparto esta historia personal porque sé que hay muchas personas confinadas en sus hogares en esta gran diócesis. Algunas pueden vivir solas, sintiéndose aisladas y atrapadas por la depresión; otras pueden residir en hogares de ancianos o centros de vida asistida. Algunas han sido rechazadas por sus familias, y la Iglesia es la única familia que tienen. Sin embargo, todas han sido creadas a imagen y semejanza de Dios; están llenas de talentos y habilidades y tienen una misión de Dios sin importar sus limitaciones físicas o su edad.
Les animo a considerar acercarse a alguien en estas situaciones. Ustedes tienen el potencial de ser una profunda fuente de esperanza en sus vidas. Y, como Dios obra de maneras misteriosas, pueden descubrir que ellas, a su vez, se convierten en una profunda fuente de esperanza para ustedes. Este intercambio recíproco de esperanza es un testimonio del poder transformador de la fe y el amor, y de su importante papel en ello.
Continuemos nuestra Peregrinación de Esperanza, pidiendo a Nuestra Señora de la Pradera que camine con nosotros. Que Dios los bendiga y gracias por responder a su llamado a ser peregrinos de esperanza.
Bishop approves merger of two AFCs under new name
by Fr. Steve Verhelst
With Bishop Chad Zielinski’s approval, two area faith communities (AFC) in the Diocese of New Ulm have become one AFC. Effective March 9, 2025, Our Lady of the Prairie AFC (St. Mary in Tracy and St. Michael in Milroy) and Bread of Life AFC (St. Mary in Cottonwood and Holy Redeemer in Marshall) will be the new Mary, Mother of God AFC.
Mary, Mother of God, is not just a name these four parishes bear but a unifying force that binds them together. Her presence in the names of two of the parishes and the four parishes’ shared devotion to her, as seen in the practice of praying the rosary before each Mass, have brought everyone together. Through her intercession and her ‘yes’ to be the Mother of God, these four parishes will unite, sharing resources, developing an AFC staff, and fostering relationships among parishioners.
The phrase “one for all and all for one” is more than a line from Alexandre Dumas’s novel The Three Musketeers. It embodies the spirit of unity and mutual support that our new AFC structure is built upon. It signifies that each individual within our group should be willing to act for the benefit of the whole, and the group as a whole should support each member. This is the essence of the AFC, where everyone stands together.
So why the need for one AFC?
Unifying these four parishes provides a structure to aid the pastor/priests more easily in carrying out their threefold office of teaching, sanctifying, and governing. Simply speaking, it provides a “one for all” structure where there is one pastor, one
bulletin, one website, one pastoral council (which includes representatives from each parish), one area staff, one faith formation curriculum (used at each of the four parishes) and one set of committees. These will enable the AFC to carry out the ministries while benefiting all four parishes. This “one for all” structure helps to reduce the number of meetings and the duplication of tasks done by staff as well as limited volunteer and financial resources.
However, a one-for-all structure does not mean ‘one size fits all.’ Each of the four parishes will continue to have its own Administrative/Finance Council as required by canon law. Each parish will continue to have its own buildings, cemeteries, finances, investments, etc. Each parish’s story, history, and culture will continue to be honored. Just as a family widens its circle of love with every birth, graduation, engagement, and wedding while not losing its identity, so it will be with these four parishes as they become one AFC.
The holy work of tending God’s vineyard in the Mary, Mother of God AFC, challenges us to widen our circle of belonging, inviting, participating, and being disciples of Christ. The good news is that while doing this, we do not lose our parish identity; we will only nurture it and help each other grow into our true and lasting identity as daughters and sons of God.
Editor’s note: Fr. Steve Verhelst is the former pastor of Our Lady of the Prairie and the Bread of Life AFCs. He now serves as pastor of the newly formed Mary, Mother of God AFC.
Sacrament of Confession: A holistic approach to spiritual growth during Lent
by Fr. Tanner Thooft Diocesan Office of Worship
Entering into Lent well is a goal many of us aspire to, whether as a subtle aspiration or a deliberate effort directing our every action. Wherever we find ourselves, we all acknowledge a desire to “do Lent well.”
Lent allows us to reevaluate and reset those areas of our lives that have gotten out of sorts. It marks a time for reprioritizing our spiritual life, reorienting choices, setting new habits, rooting out vices, and cleaning up our acts.
Yet, a danger arises as we undertake this penitential practice. We might co-opt this Holy Season into just another opportunity to remake ourselves in our own image, according to our vision of holiness, and follow our own selfimprovement plan. Rather than focusing on God and his grace, we turn inward, telling ourselves: “This Lent, I will try harder,” “This Lent, I will succeed,” “This Lent, I will become the person I want to be.”
I recall advice received in
seminary when I was distraught over my inadequacies and shortcomings. After explaining how my plan for personal reform had failed, my formation director said: “Maybe your effort isn’t the problem, but you’ve allowed the man you want to become to get in the way of the man God wants you to be.” This insight surprised me: that my plan for personal holiness could somehow actually thwart God’s plan for my life.
From our human perspective, we see our weaknesses as something we must fix to be perfect. We seek to mask our shortcomings, hoping to remedy them before others discover them, and we become discontented and discouraged at our lack of perfection. So we set out in this Holy Season with our master plan of self-improvement, only to find that we have not achieved what we set out to do. Is that the end? Is it hopeless? Is this cause for despair?
In the letter to the Romans we are told, “Where sin abounds, grace abounds all the more.” This profound truth reminds us that God is offering us the grace necessary to choose the good in
Encount the m cy of God through confession
Diocesan map of available confession times at:
dnu.org/worship
every temptation, vulnerability, and weakness. Even when, because of our own choice, we reject God’s grace and act on our sinful inclinations, God’s grace does not abandon us. Rather, his grace increases so that we might choose to return to him. It is this grace that helps us not to despair but instead to have hope in the Lord’s forgiveness. It is this grace that impels us to seek the sacrament of Confession, and it is his grace that sets us free from those wounds of sin that keep us bound. For this reason, the
sacrament of Confession is a place of victory.
We often view Confession as a place of shame where we acknowledge our failures. However, in Confession, we find the culmination of every gift of God’s grace that he has poured into us after we chose to give in to sin. The victory of his grace gives us the courage to present ourselves before the priest, the fortitude to acknowledge our wrongs, the sincerity of true contrition, and the grace to firmly resolve to sin
Our Lady image to reflect elements of diocesan heritage
(Continued from Page 1.)
creating and restoring church art and won a prestigious contest for creating the country’s national Marian image. “Ko Hāta Maria, te Matua Wahine o te Atu,” which translates as “Hata Maria, the Mother of God,” depicts Mary and the Christ Child inside a traditional Māori meeting house.
“New Zealand is bicultural,” said Walker. “There’s been a great division, and the image brings dialogue and conversation. The whole point of it is to use art to bring healing.”
Unknown to Bishop Zielinski at the time, Walker had a personal reason to love the message of God’s divine healing as accessed through Mary and the saints. At 18 years old, around the same time that he was planning to open his studio, Walker was diagnosed with an aggressive form of blood disease known as polycythemia. His specialist was not hopeful, but his mother was determined to pray for a miracle.
“Mom got the oil of St. Philomena and put it on my head, heart, and
all the areas I was in pain, and then started praying a novena to St. Philomena,” Walker said. “Lots of people were praying. Next morning, I got up and started walking. I hadn’t been able to before. I’d been bedridden for six months.” A follow-up visit to his specialist revealed that the disease was gone.
When Bishop Zielinski contacted Walker about potentially creating a painting of Our Lady of the Prairie, Walker flew to Minnesota last spring to see the diocese and learn about its history.
“I did a lot of time just observing as much as I could and listening to the bishop’s perspective,” Walker said. “I visited the museum [Brown County Historical Society], and the curator there is an awesome guy. I visited a lot of the sites of the big historic battles. It gave me a beautiful perspective on the area. It’s given me the opportunity to understand the essence of what Our Lady should be for your culture.”
Following Walker’s visit, Bishop Zielinski commissioned the artist to create a nearly life-sized
image for the Diocese of New Ulm in honor of its upcoming consecration on June 22, 2025, at the Cathedral of the Holy Trinity in New Ulm. A replica of the image will be processed throughout the diocese from June 22 – 29. On June 29, all pastors will dedicate their Area of Faith Communities to Our Lady of the Prairie. The painting has been funded solely through the generosity of individual donors, and its creation process has taken Walker roughly a year. Using a technique similar to the one popularized by Leonardo da Vinci, Michaelangelo, and other Italian Renaissance masters, Walker uses layers of thin glazes to create the Blessed Mother’s image.
“She’s developing herself in a way that’s surprising me,” said Walker, adding that, when finished, the painting will reflect elements of the diocese’s Native American and Western European heritage.
Both Walker and Bishop Zielinski see art as a unique pathway to experiencing divine love, healing, and connection. “When an iconographer paints an icon, there’s tradition that goes with
no more. While our sin represents one moment of turning from grace, Confession is where each subsequent gift of God’s grace finds victory.
In turn, our preparation and examination of conscience need not focus solely on our failures, but also on acknowledging the grace we have turned away from. By seeing our faults in light of God’s grace, we better equip ourselves to accept that grace in future temptations.
When we recognize the grace God offers in each moment, even those where we fall short, we open ourselves to his transformative power.
This Lenten season, may we approach Confession with sincere hearts, not simply acknowledging sins, but discovering the moments of grace we failed to recognize. In acknowledging these gifts, we open ourselves to God’s transformative plan rather than becoming consumed with our selfimprovement project. Through this holistic approach, may God’s vision for our sanctification take precedence over our own.
it,” Bishop Zielinski said. “What I saw in Damien’s work is that he gets the theology behind colors, proportions, the way that Jesus holds his hands – it’s not just a piece of art. The whole theology behind architecture and art is that you’re entering into an encounter with Christ that is sacred.”
“There’s a lot of hope with this image,” Walker said about “Our Lady of the Prairie.” “There’s a lot of strength because she’s very strong, but there’s a gentleness, too. I think this will be very relatable.”
To celebrate the rededication and the painting’s unveiling on June 22, Bishop Zielinski asked the diocesan director of Evangelization, Leonard Gutierrez, to plan a local pilgrimage. From Sunday, June 22 to Sunday, June 29, Gutierrez and some young adult pilgrims will walk from Area Faith Community to Area Faith Community in the diocese, (close to 90 miles), beginning at the Cathedral in New Ulm and stopping daily at different churches for Mass and holy hours. Walker is currently planning to make an appearance
at the pilgrimage, and everyone is invited to join.
“This is a beautiful way to show people what life is like in our diocese,” Gutierrez said regarding the pilgrimage. “I think what makes this special is that it helps people to understand that their life right now is a pilgrimage, that they don’t need a whole week away from normal life. They can participate in a small way, but they’re participating with the rest of the Body of Christ.”
Gutierrez said he thinks that the rededication, painting, and pilgrimage combined will help lead the faithful to Jesus through Mary: “People will be able to look at Mary and say, ‘Mary gets me; she understands me,’ and they can relate to her in a very special way.”
Ultimately, the goal of the rededication is to lead the world to Our Lord through His mother, starting with the Diocese of New Ulm.
“Our Lady is so powerful,” Bishop Zielinski said. “We look around the world and see Our Lady leading people to Christ.”
COR Night - an evening of music, worship and praise for the Lord! Pop/Hip Hop artist encourages youth to make Jesus their priority
by Luke Miller
OLIVIA, Minn. – Connor Flanagan, a Catholic hip-hop artist and worship leader who uses his musical talent to evangelize worldwide, was the keynote during the Diocese of New Ulm COR Night, held Feb. 23, 2025, at the Church of St. Aloysius in Olivia.
A popular youth event for grades six through 12 students, COR Night is a special time when youth from throughout the diocese gather for games, a speaker, food, and Eucharist Adoration.
Flanagan’s songs serve as a powerful voice, connecting the youth with the essence of God, the Father. His music has a profound impact, encouraging and connecting with the younger generation, making them feel inspired and united. “All of my music is from my heart; it comes from a place of Jesus having transformed my life,” he said. “It is very outwardly Christian. It comes out of who God made me to be. I want to be a voice for who God is as the author and giver of life, the source of all joy, in an industry that needs it so much.”
Musician and evangelizer Connor Flanagan offered praise and worship through his music and talk to his youthful audience during the Diocese of New Ulm COR Night held Feb. 23, 2025, in Olivia. (Photos by Jessica Griebel)
His faith is reflected in his music, which stands out and inspires the younger generation. Flanagan’s message to his youthful audience was one of acceptance and reassurance, making them feel understood and valued in their journey of faith. He emphasized that they don’t have to be extraordinary to be holy or serve God. “We can be ‘ordinary’ people like the apostles, as long as we are ‘companions of Jesus,’” he said.
Flanagan told the youth that it is
okay to struggle in life and that it is okay to feel like you don’t have the answers or the perfect plan. He reassured them that God does not ask for perfection. “He does not ask you to have all the right answers. Just be close to Jesus. Just show up to prayer. Just let the Lord in. Just show up; that is all God is asking,” he said.
Making God a priority Flanagan challenged the students to provide God with just five minutes a day by praying as soon
God loves a cheerful giver!
by Bishop Chad W. Zielinski
As I opened the Jubilee Year, Pilgrims of Hope, at the Cathedral of the Holy Trinity on Sunday, Dec. 29, 2024, I recalled the words of Pope Francis in his document, “Hope does not disappoint.”
The pope reminds us that our generosity as stewards/ambassadors of hope has a profound impact within our diocese. Our prayers, personal interactions, and resources are all part of our collective response to those thirsting for hope.
In concluding his invitation, Pope Francis loudly proclaims: “Let us even now be drawn to this hope! Through our witness, may hope spread to all those who anxiously seek it. May the way we live our lives say to them in so many words: ‘Hope in the Lord! Hold firm, take heart and hope in the Lord!’
(Ps 27:14). May the power of hope fill our days as we await with confidence the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and glory, now and forever.” (Second to last paragraph of the bull of indiction for the Jubilee Year).
With abundant gratitude, thank you for generously responding as stewards of hope. As we continue our journey in this Jubilee Year, I encourage you to to further spread hope within our parish communities.
more about “What Happens at Mass” a 36-week reflection in English and Spanish by Bishop Zielinski. www.dnu.org/eucharistic-revival.
COR Night presenter Mark Rabaey, a senior from Marshall Public High School and a parishioner of St Eloi in Ghent gives his testimony on how committing to praying every day brought him closer to Jesus.
as they woke up. “I can promise you that if you give Jesus the first .5% of your day every single day, it will radically change your life because all you have to do is give God a doorway in. He will lighten that load on your heart and on your mind,” he said.
“He [God] is not asking to have all of your time. He’s asking to have the first fruits of it, to know he’s the priority, and then that will grow just like a small seed is planted, and you water it every
day. . . It’ll grow and grow and grow.”
Editor’s note: Luke Miller is the director of Youth Ministry for the Diocese of New Ulm, lmiller@ dnu.org; (507) 233-5327.
Prayers for Pope Francis
NEW ULM – Several Diocese of New Ulm staff members gathered for Mass and a Holy Hour with Bishop Chad Zielinski on Friday, Feb. 28, in the chapel at the Diocesan Pastoral Center in New Ulm. This hallowed space added a sense of reverence and solemnity to their prayers for Pope Francis’s health. Bishop Zielinski asks that all the faithful of the diocese continue to pray for good health for the Holy Father.
(Photo by Christine Clancy)
social concerns
Bringing hope to the incarcerated: a work of mercy in the Jubilee Year
by Anisabel Palma
The Jubilee Year 2025, a special time in the Catholic Church, is a period of forgiveness, reconciliation, and joy. It is a time when the Church focuses on mercy, especially towards those suffering or in need.
In his bull of indiction for the Jubilee Year, Spes Non Confundit (Hope Does Not Disappoint), Pope Francis reflects on the words of St. Paul to the Romans: “Hope does not disappoint because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit that has been given to us,” (Rom 5:5).
The Holy Father invites all the faithful to experience this Jubilee as a time of genuine, personal encounter with Christ – the “door” of our salvation. This message of hope is especially meaningful for those involved in the ministry of visiting the incarcerated, where the presence of Christ is deeply felt.
Encounters of hope
For many years, the Jesus Our Living Water Area Faith Community (Clara City, Willmar, and Spicer) has been committed to the ministry of visiting the imprisoned, embodying one of the Church’s corporal works of mercy. Each Friday, a volunteer from the Church of St. Mary in Willmar visits inmates at the Kandiyohi County Jail. This facility is one of three in Minnesota that holds detainees for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE),
meaning many of those ministered to are immigrants facing deportation.
Steve Hinton, a dedicated volunteer at the prison for the past eight years, approaches his visits with the understanding that he is encountering a brother or sister in need. He shares the love of Christ with the detainees, offers encouragement, and helps them find reasons for hope. His encounters often lead to transformative moments, where individuals experience profound encounters with the Lord while incarcerated. These stories of transformation are not just inspiring, they are a testament to the profound impact of personal encounters in jail ministry, reaffirming the power of hope and the transformative potential of faith.
Similarly, Betty Bollig, who served in jail ministry for over 12 years, speaks of the delicate balance between offering sympathy and truth to those she encounters. She recalls a powerful moment when, after praying for the Holy Spirit to come upon a group of nine men – including a local gang leader –they became docile, leaving the guard astonished. For her, sharing scripture and the wisdom of the saints is essential in strengthening inmates’ relationship with God.
Walking with immigrants through uncertain times.
As the Trump administration
carries out large-scale deportations, fear and anxiety weigh heavily on immigrant families, especially those with loved ones detained in facilities like Kandiyohi County Jail. Many of these individuals face an uncertain future, forced to leave behind spouses, children, and communities.
Recently, I visited a man who shared a deeply moving moment from the night before his arrest. As I sat with him, I couldn’t help but be moved by his unwavering faith and trust in God. That evening, he felt a strong impulse to bless his children. Following this prompting, he went to each of their beds, prayed over them, and traced the sign of the cross on their foreheads. The next morning, as he walked to his car just around the block, he was intercepted by two men and arrested. Since he faced criminal charges – charges he insisted he was innocent of and
was fighting in court – his lawyers told him there was little hope. They said he would most likely be deported soon.
As he spoke to me about the painful reality of being separated from his wife and children, his eyes filled with tears. Yet, he immediately reaffirmed his trust in God, saying that his life and future were in the Lord’s hands. “Only God knows what is behind this imminent separation,” he said with a steady voice, full of confidence in the one who had never abandoned him.
When I visit and minister to inmates, I know that I do not stand by myself. The entire Church is present. I am inspired by Jesus’ words in Matthew’s Gospel,“When did we see you ill or in prison and visit you? And the King will say to them in reply, ‘Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of these least brothers
of mine, you did for me,’” (Mt. 25:39-40).
A call to live the jubilee spirit
The experiences of Steve, Betty, and many others involved in jail ministry exemplify the spirit of this Jubilee Year: bringing the hope of Christ to those in difficult circumstances. Their dedication mirrors Pope Francis’ call for the Jubilee to be a time of authentic encounter with the Lord.
And the Church’s response is clear: we walk with them. We do not judge or condemn. We accompany the detained, offering them the presence and love of Christ.
As we journey through this Holy Year, especially in Lent, may their testimonies inspire us to renew our commitment to works of mercy. Whether by visiting the imprisoned, feeding the hungry, or simply offering a word of encouragement to someone in need, we are called to be bearers of hope. This call to action empowers us and reminds us of our responsibility to live the Jubilee spirit. For, in the end, hope does not disappoint.
Editor’s note: Anisabel Palma is the director of Hispanic Ministry for the Diocese of New Ulm, apalma@dnu.org, (507) 233-5360.
Diocese partners with parishes, regional food shelves to combat hunger
by Tammy Behnke, director Office of Social Concerns
Each year, parishes within the Diocese of New Ulm step up in remarkable ways to serve their communities. One such effort is the annual food truck program, a collaboration between parishes, regional food shelves, and the Diocese of New Ulm’s Office of Social Concerns, a key player in coordinating these food distributions. These food distributions provide essential groceries, helping to ensure that no one in the community goes hungry.
Holy Rosary parish in Graceville has become a vital hub for food distribution in its community. Partnering with Prairie Five Community Action Food Shelf and the diocese, the parish hosts multiple food truck events throughout the year.
Last November, the Graceville food truck event on Nov. 5 brought relief to 233 families. Among those served were 177 children, 245 adults, and 160 senior citizens. The distribution, facilitated through
Second Harvest, provided nearly 4,000 pounds of food, including meat, dairy products, canned goods, potatoes, rice, and fresh vegetables. The volunteers’ hard work and dedication, including youth from the parish Confirmation class, played a significant role in the food distribution.
St. Michael parish in Madison also hosts an annual food truck event, working
in partnership with the Lac qui Parle Community Food Shelf and the diocese. Their distribution is typically held on the third Tuesday of November and serves as a crucial resource for many families in the area. Past distributions have mirrored the numbers in Graceville, indicating a similar level of need in the region.
In addition to these food truck parishes also
hold monthly meat and protein distributions to provide ongoing support for families in need.
The Diocese of New Ulm Office of Social Concerns is supported in part by donations to the annual Diocesan Ministries Appeal (DMA). This office plays a significant role in coordinating these food distributions by helping to facilitate food access for those experiencing food insecurity and fostering partnerships between local parishes and regional food shelves. The office supports these efforts by providing logistical assistance, promoting volunteer involvement, and advocating for continued outreach initiatives.
As these programs grow, so too does their impact on the lives of those they serve. With continued support, these initiatives will remain a beacon of hope for families in need throughout the region.
Food distribution volunteers of all ages from Holy Rosary parish in Graceville. (Photo by Pam Stueve)
faith life
What is it like to receive the Eucharist in space? A conversation with former NASA astronaut and Catholic convert Mike Hopkins
by Kathleen Naab
Getting to live in space is a challenge and an honor only a very few people will ever enjoy (at least in our generation). United States Astronaut Col. Mike Hopkins is one of those selected few. He spent six months on the International Space Station (ISS) in 2013. And though he was thrilled when he was chosen for a space mission, there was one Person he didn’t want to leave behind: Jesus in the Eucharist.
Hopkins had been received into the Church less than a year before his launch. After a long wait, he was finally able to receive Our Lord at each Mass. Facing the prospect of being off the planet for half a year, he decided he had to find out if Jesus could travel with him. It turns out he could – and he did.
The National Catholic Register, a service of EWTN News, Inc., spoke with Hopkins in 2017 about his desire to have the Eucharist in space, how it worked out practically, and what led to his devotion to the Real Presence.
How is it that you ended up being the kind of astronaut who wants to take Jesus into space?
Well, it’s a bit of a long story. I grew up as a non-practicing Methodist. I met my wife, Julie, in college. She’s Catholic, and we started dating and eventually ended up getting married. As part of that process of getting married in the Catholic Church, we agreed to raise our kids Catholic. I didn’t have any intentions of becoming Catholic. I felt like it was important for our kids to realize that what was important was their relationship with God, not necessarily whether you’re Methodist or Catholic or Protestant or whatever the case may be.
And so we went to church on a regular basis, to the Catholic church. Our kids were baptized Catholic, and we’ve been raising them in the Catholic Church.
Then I got – in 2009 – selected as an astronaut. And this had been a goal, a dream, an objective for much of my professional career. So everything was fantastic, right? We moved down to Houston and became members of Mary Queen Catholic Church. I went through the basic [astronaut] training from
2009 to 2011. And as far as my religious practice, everything was still kind of the same. We were going to the Catholic church, the boys were going to the Catholic youth education programs and being raised Catholic, and yet, when we went to church, I didn’t participate in Communion because I wasn’t a Catholic.
And then, in 2011, I got assigned to a mission to the International Space Station. I was going to go up and spend six months in space, starting in 2013, so you’d think as far as career goals and family, everything was perfect. I’d become an astronaut. I’d been assigned to actually go into space. My family was doing fantastic. And so everything was good, but, for me personally, I felt like something was missing.
It was hard to put my finger on it, but I eventually decided that “I think maybe I need to become Catholic. I want to participate more in my family’s – my wife and my kids’ – religious life.” I do believe that God has a way of putting people in your life that help you when you have the need. In this case, for me, it was Fr. Skip Negley, who was the priest at Mary Queen.
At this time, as I’d been assigned to a mission, I was training a lot, which meant I was spending a lot of time in Russia. Therefore, I wasn’t able to attend the weekly RCIA classes, now known as OCIA. And so we [my wife and I] went and talked to Father Skip, and he said, “Look Mike, I’m willing – when you’re here for the two- or three-week [intervals], we’ll get together one-on-one as often as we can. And we’ll do it in that fashion.”
So it would never have happened without Father Skip. Or it would have been, I guess, a much bigger struggle or a much longer process, if Father Skip hadn’t taken me under his wing.
I remember one of the first meetings I had with him: [He asked], “Why do you want to be Catholic?”
And I gave the response I mentioned earlier – about wanting to participate more in my family’s religious life – and he said, “Mike, that’s not a reason to be Catholic.” And so that whole process of these meetings with him was absolutely fantastic for me, because it
U.S. astronaut speaks to diocesan youth
SLEEPY EYE– Col. Mike Hopkins, a retired NASA astronaut and a Catholic convert, engaged in a lively discussion about his faith and life in space with Catholic school students from around the diocese on Friday, Feb. 21, at St. Mary’s Catholic School in Sleepy Eye. Hopkins, who spent 167 days in space before returning to Earth on May 2, 2021, described his experiences, including hours spent upgrading the Columbus module, replacing and upgrading cameras, and replacing batteries. (Photo by Christy Baker)
answered a lot of questions that I had about the Catholic faith. Father Skip was just amazing. And at the end of the day, I realized it was something I needed to do for me.
I was able to get confirmed in the Catholic Church in December 2012, and I was launching in September 2013. Once I got confirmed though, I have to admit, I still wasn’t quite satisfied –because I knew I was going to be gone [in space] for six months.
So I started asking the question, “Is there any chance I can take the Eucharist up with me into space?”
Which isn’t something that, you know, is normally done, since you don’t self-administer Communion.
Again, God has a way of putting people in your life when there is a need. And Chuck Turner [a deacon as well as the parish facilities manager] and Fr. Jim [Kuczynski], who had taken over from Father Skip, started asking the questions of the archdiocese: “What would we need to do to allow Mike to take the Eucharist up?” So they really did a lot of the leg work to make it happen, and I was able to take a small pyx up with me that had six wafers divided into four each, so I had 24 opportunities to receive Communion on orbit.
They were able to work it all out with the church; and so, the weekend before I left for Russia – we launch on a Russian rocket from Kazakhstan – I went to Mass one last time, and [the priest]
know that Jesus was with me when I went out the hatch into the vacuum of space. And then I received my last Communion on my last day on orbit in the “Cupola,” which is this large window that looks down at the Earth, and that was a very special moment before I came home.
Was there a particular point in your conversion trajectory that you came to faith in the Eucharist, when you came to realize, “Wow –this really is Jesus”?
consecrated the wafers into the Body of Christ, and I was able to take the pyx with me.
And this is where, again, the whole process was incredible because every item that we take into space has to be documented and categorized. So when you’re launching on this Russian vehicle, all of these personal items [are processed] – members of the Russian Space Agency take about two weeks to weigh and validate [them] for space flight. Well, I couldn’t just give up the Body of Christ – just hand it over to somebody else!
Yet the Russians were amazing. I went in with all my personal items, and I explained what the pyx was and the meaning of it to me – because for them, they, of course, saw it just as bread, if you will, the wafers – and yet for me [I knew] it was the Body of Christ. And they completely understood and said, “Okay, we’ll estimate it weighs this much, and no problem. You can keep it with you.”
So it was just one thing after another: All these doors opened up, and I was able to take the Eucharist up – and I was able to have Communion, basically, every week. There were a couple of times when I received Communion on, I’ll say, special occasions: I did two spacewalks; so on the morning of both of those days, when I went out for the spacewalk, I had Communion. It was really helpful for me to
Yes, I think so. I mentioned that Father Skip – we spent all this time together during my confirmation process – explained the very beginnings of the Church and how Catholic priests have this lineage going all the way back to the apostles; how there is this connection, through the Catholic Church, to Jesus, through the priests. There was something about that that made it all seem real to me. Because when you’re talking [to a priest], in my case to Father Skip, and realize that there’s a direct link between his being ordained all the way down to the apostles, to Jesus … that kind of connection made it all real.
How has NASA, a very scientific entity, responded to your conversion and taking the Eucharist into space?
NASA has been great. … They didn’t have any reservations about me taking the Eucharist up or to practicing my faith on orbit. Of course, I’m there with a job to do, and I have to do that, but there was no interference. There are quite a few astronauts who are very religious. We are practicing our faith. We’re not silent about that.
Do you think that being an astronaut helps your faith?
It does. When I receive Communion … it’s one of these things that puts things in perspective for me. When you’re in orbit, and you’re getting ready to go out on a spacewalk, from an emotional standpoint, you can be very nervous. You can be afraid, if you will. So it helped strengthen my faith, because when I was able to receive the Host and realize that if my faith is strong, I have nothing to be afraid of … that helped. Having that constant reminder when I was on the ISS –things can go wrong in a hurry
(Continued on page 9.)
catholic life
NUDCCW convention set for April 26 Church of St. Mary in Tracy is this year’s host parish
by Carolyn Keller NUDCCW vice president
TRACY, Minn. – The 64th annual New Ulm Diocesan Council of Catholic Women (NUDCCW) Convention is a unique opportunity for women of the diocese to come together, learn, and grow in our faith. This year’s convention will be held on Saturday, April 26 at the Church of St. Mary in Tracy. The Convention theme is “Be Bold Believers.”
Morning keynote:
Camille Pauley will offer a unique philosophical approach to prolife education.
A figure whose influence extends far beyond the borders of Seattle, Wash., Pauley is the co-founder and president of Healing the Culture, a nonprofit located in Seattle.
She along with Fr. Robert Spitzer, S.J., Ph.D., co-founded
the organization in 2003. Since then, it has grown internationally with tremendous influence in the cultural battle over abortion and euthanasia. With over 25 years as a professional pro-life advocate, Pauley will share about her organization and its mission. Her presence at the convention promises to inspire and motivate us all.
Afternoon session:
United States Congressman Brad Finstad will bring a wealth of knowledge and experience as the afternoon speaker.
As a member of the Cathedral of the Holy Trinity in New Ulm, a farmer, and an agricultural consultant, he has served Minnesota’s 1st congressional district since 2022.
His three half-hour sessions will provide practical and pragmatic approaches to participating in civic and legislative processes,
empowering us to make a difference as U.S. citizens.
The New Ulm Diocesan Council of Catholic Women Resource and Development Team, Shirley Nowak and Chris Heiderscheidt will also lead three half-hour informational sessions providing convention goers with a helpful snapshot of the Council of Catholic Women (CCW) along with tools to help guide your parish CCW to integrate with the deanery, diocesan, province, and national levels of CCW. “Be Bold Believers” and plan to join us on April 26 in Tracy.
A complete agenda of the day can be found on the NUDCCW website, www.nudccw.org.
Register now!
Contact your CCW parish president or the NUDCCW website for a registration form. $40 before April 15; $50 if postmarked after April 15. $10 for Camille Pauley presentation only.
Hopkins: Becoming Catholic “was something I needed to do”
(Continued from page 8.)
up there, and the consequences can be quite bad – [I had] my faith, and that constant leaning on Jesus, and realizing that he’s in control, that I’m not in control of this. So when you’re sitting on that rocket getting ready to launch, you say a prayer and get the job done.
I have got to tell you this is probably the hardest topic for me to talk about. For me, my relationship with God was always a very personal thing. That’s one of the things I learned with Father Skip. [The Church is] catholic; it’s a body; it’s the whole. That is part of the faith. It’s not just about your personal [situation]; it’s also being part of the community. I spent my entire life kind of keeping my thoughts and beliefs internal, so now being in this position of communicating, I know I don’t communicate it very well. … It is very difficult for me. It’s much easier to stand up and talk about a space launch or the science we’re doing on board.
You speak very beautifully about
this. My oldest son is 7, and I told him, “I’m going to interview an astronaut!” And he was like, “Oh, cool!” And then I told him why: “Because he took Jesus into space!” You have a beautiful ministry now and a beautiful mission in the Church. My last question is: What do you imagine heaven to be like?
When I think of heaven, I don’t think of being in space, because I’ve been there, and I know what it’s like. And there’s a lot of it that is like life down here. We’ve created this artificial environment up there. We’ve built the ISS. It is man-made. It has all of the same kinds of things we have down here on Earth. You have exercise equipment. You have food. You have ways to prepare that food. You have the means of getting rid of the waste. You have science. You get up there, and it’s very real. When I think of heaven, I have no idea what that is going to be like.
Is there anything else that you’d like to share? You’re still just a baby Catholic — or a toddler Catholic!
I am! I am! My youngest son is going through the confirmation process. Julie and I went to the kickoff meeting. They had a guest speaker there, not a priest … [he was] from one of the adult faith-formation programs from the north side of town, and this guy was good. It is amazing when you get to hear someone talk about faith [in a real way], talk about the shortcomings in our practice of the faith. The way he talked was truly incredible.
I think one of the neat things about becoming Catholic is getting to participate in events like that, where you realize that “I am a baby Catholic, and I have so much more to learn.” And every time I get around these amazing people who are in the Catholic Church, I just realize again and again that this is the right place for me.
Naab, Kathleen: (c) 2025 EWTN News, Inc. Reprinted with permission from the National Catholic Register - http://www. ncregister.com.
Year of Mission Testimony
– The hope that is in you
by Leonard Gutierrez
Whois one of the most important people in your life? Think for a second about the influence that person has had on you.
The person that comes to mind might be either a spouse, a friend, a mentor, or a personal hero. This person might be important to you not only because they are family or you have known them for years but because their life has deeply affected yours for the better.
Ultimately, this is what we do when we share our testimonies. When someone asks us for the reason for our Catholic faith or “Why do you believe in Christ?” they want to know the story of how the life of Christ, our truest friend, has influenced our life.
Knowing your story and being prepared to share it with others is an important skill for evangelization. It could be in an elevator, a small group study, on an airplane, or in some other country where you can share your testimony of friendship with Christ. Having a clear idea of what God has done and is doing in your life enables you to share with anyone the account “for the hope that is in you” (1 Peter 3:15) and to share it in different ways depending upon whom you are sharing it with.
We often believe our story is not big enough to share. Sometimes, we have not reflected enough on what God has done, so we have not been able to piece it all together into a story that can flow naturally from our hearts as we share it.
Saint Paul shared his testimony several times in the Acts of the Apostles as one way he evangelized. His framework is helpful to us as we pray with our own stories so that we can share them effectively.
Saint Paul’s testimony can be divided into four parts: Life before Jesus Christ (Acts 26:111); Coming to know Jesus Christ (Acts 26:12-18); Life in Jesus Christ (Acts 26:19-23), and Inviting others to know Jesus Christ (Acts 26:27-29).
We can learn many things
from Saint Paul about sharing our testimony. It is key to highlight experiences accurately without stressing over details. Our testimonies do not need to be 45 minutes long. In fact, it is good practice to keep them five minutes or less in most situations.
Praying about your testimony before you know you will share it with someone enables it to come across as real and authentic. It helps remind you that the hinge of your story is Jesus, not what you did.
I do not think I have ever given my testimony the same way twice. However, I reflect on it a lot, especially when I know I might have an opportunity to share it in a talk or with someone. I keep an account of my whole story, and when I know I will share it, I turn to prayer and ask, “Lord, how do you want me to share what you’ve done in my life with this person or these people?”
Let us learn from the example of Saint Paul and be ready to share the hope in us with others!
Leonard Gutierrez is the director of the Office of Evangelization for the Diocese of New Ulm. He can be reached at lgutierrez@dnu.org; (507) 233-5361.
by Fr. Mark Steffl, STL, JCL
The Code of Canon Law, canon 1055 gives a theological and legal definition of Marriage that the Catholic Church makes its own:
Can. 1055 §1. The matrimonial covenant, by which a man and a woman establish between themselves a partnership of the whole of life and which is ordered by its nature to the good of the spouses and the procreation and education of offspring, has been raised by Christ the Lord to the dignity of a sacrament between the baptized.
This canon is substantially a quote from a Second Vatical Council document, Gaudium et spes (GS), which describes how marriage is “ordered by its nature” to two specific purposes: 1.) “The good of spouses” and 2.) “The procreation and education of offspring.”
Ask a Canon Lawyer
This month’s question: Can a couple get married in the Catholic Church if they don’t want to have children?
With the phrase “ordered by its nature,” the Church is acknowledging what is called “Natural Law” – the way that the Lord created human beings and the way that nature is “ordered” to work in the “plan” of God’s creation that we can discern through reason.
The first purpose of the “good of spouses” is described more fully in GS 49: to live a life that “embraces the good of the entire person and is therefore capable of endowing human expressions with a particular dignity and of ennobling them as special features and manifestations of married friendship.” In simpler words, it is about the spouses promising to care for and love each other, providing for the needs of the other in a committed and exclusive way, emotionally, spiritually, intellectually, morally, socially, physically, in all things relating to the life that they share in common, made as a firm commitment and not just about “making each other happy” as contemporary society tends to view marriage today.
The second purpose – the “procreation and education of offspring” – is an openness to children that naturally comes from the relationship of love that a husband and wife share with each other. This openness means that a couple would not actively exclude the possibility of conceiving a child but also includes not only an openness to children but a willingness to commit to educating those children that are a result of that marriage, a responsibility that goes beyond basic education to also include a spiritual education of raising those children in the faith, seeing that they receive catechesis, learn how to pray and receive the sacraments at the appropriate times.
This “openness” to children, of course, does not mean that every married couple can conceive a child. There can be medical reasons which preclude the conception of a child on the part of one or the other of the spouses. Couples, especially those who marry later in life, might, for biological reasons, not be able to
have children, and it is important to say that although a couple may not have children, that does not make their union any less a marriage.
The topic of “openness to children” is brought up multiple times for discussion with couples preparing for marriage so that they understand what they are declaring on their wedding day before the exchange of their vows when they are each asked the question in the marriage liturgy: Are you prepared to accept children lovingly from God and to bring them up according to the law of Christ and his Church?
The bridegroom and bride each say: “I am.”
On a pastoral note, in my experience as a priest, the more significant challenge than openness to children is the many times that I have met with married couples who are very burdened by the grief that they have not been able to conceive a child.
Sometimes, there are biological reasons that can be remedied by
finding the right physician who is an expert in the area of fertility. Unfortunately, many in the medical field will immediately jump to recommending in vitro fertilization (IVF) when it might be something that can be identified and remedied to allow for a married couple to naturally conceive a child.
See information about the Feb. 20, 2025, U.S. Catholic bishops’ statement concerning IVF - Page 10 of this issue of The Prairie Catholic.
Next issue’s question (from a priest): Please explain what it means to be a registered member of a parish and that people can request a Funeral Mass in a church where they might not be “officially registered.”
IVF destroys human life, U.S. bishops urge ethical alternatives
On Feb. 20, 2025, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Pro-Life Activities and the Committee for Laity, Marriage, Family Life and Youth released a statement regarding in-vitro fertilization.
WASHINGTON – “As pastors, we see the suffering of so many couples experiencing infertility and know their deep desire to have children is both good and admirable; yet the administration’s push for IVF, which ends countless human lives and treats persons like property, cannot be the answer,” reflected Bishop Daniel E. Thomas, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Pro-Life Activities, and Bishop Robert E. Barron, chairman of the
Committee for Laity, Marriage, Family Life and Youth, in response to President Donald Trump’s executive order calling for policies to make in vitro fertilization (IVF) less costly and more available.
“The IVF industry treats human beings like products and freezes or kills millions of children who are not selected for transfer to a womb or do not survive. Tuesday’s executive order promoting IVF is thus fatally flawed and stands in regrettable contrast to the promising pro-life actions of the Administration last month.
“Every human person is a precious gift with infinite dignity and worth, no matter how that person was conceived. People born as a result of IVF have no less dignity than anyone else. It is our moral responsibility to uphold the
dignity of their brothers and sisters who are never given the chance to be born.
“For the sake of couples trying to bring precious new life into the world, we look forward to working with the Administration to expand support for restorative reproductive medicine that can help ethically treat oftenoverlooked root causes of infertility. However, we will strongly oppose any policy that
expands destruction of human life, or forces others to subsidize the cost.”
For more on assisted reproductive technology, including in vitro fertilization, please see https:// www.usccb.org/prolife/ reproductive-technology. And
Fr. Mark Steffl is a canon lawyer. He serves as judicial vicar of the diocesan Tribunal and is vicar general and moderator of the curia for the diocese. If you have a question, email The Prairie Catholic at cclancy@dnu.org.
for more on infertility, including ethical restorative reproductive medicine and research, please see: https://www.usccb.org/topics/ natural-family-planning/infertility.
Inside the Issue: Unpacking the Ethics of Surrogacy and IVF
ST. PAUL - The Minnesota Catholic Conference, the policy voice of the Minnesota Catholic bishops, takes a deep look into the complex ethical and policy questions surrounding surrogacy and in vitro fertilization. Join Maggee Hangge, Jennifer Lahl, Kallie Fell, and Dr Amy Fisher as they unpack the profound implications these practices have on human dignity, women’s health, and the rights of children. Through their expert insights, during this video you will gain a deeper understanding of why these issues matter and how they affect Minnesota families.
SEARCH: Inside the Issue: Unpacking the Ethics of Surrogacy and IVF
The legacy of a disciple
by Deacon Mike McKeown
Financial stewardship is a powerful way to support those institutions or causes that have had a transformative impact on us or our families, especially those that have changed our lives. It is not just a response but a catalyst for spiritual growth, particularly when we feel a deep connection to the mission of the Church.
This growth in supporting the mission of the Church often increases as we mature spiritually, inspiring us to make a significant difference.
As disciples of Christ, we are all called to be faithful stewards. One way you can do that is by helping to ensure the future vitality of our Church with a planned gift through your estate.
What is a planned gift? A planned gift is made during a lifetime as part of one’s estate, whether by Will, a Trust, or other means. Planned giving refers to gifts made from assets accumulated during one’s lifetime. Usually, these gifts are part of an overall estate plan and are typically made in the following ways:
Couples to celebrate significant anniversaries
Three couples of the Diocese of New Ulm were inadvertently omitted from January/February Prairie Catholic coverage of 2025 marriage anniversaries of 65 years or beyond.
65 years
Harvey and Ruth (Schlumpberger) Fruhwirth were married Aug. 20, 1960. They are members of St. Mary, New Ulm.
around the diocese
Wills and Bequests: Providing for family first, you can support your parish or other ministry through a bequest in your last Will and Testament or Living Trust.
IRA Charitable Rollover: The IRA Charitable Rollover is now permanent! What is referred to as a rollover is actually a “qualified charitable distribution” that can be made as a charitable contribution.
A Charitable Remainder Trust:
Receive income for life while making a significant gift to your parish or ministry.
Gifts of Life Insurance: Transfer the named beneficiary of an existing policy or purchase a new policy and make your parish or other ministry the named beneficiary.
Gifts of Retirement Assets: Make the Church the beneficiary of an Individual Retirement Account (IRA).
For further information contact Deacon Mike McKeown, director of the Office of Development for the Diocese of New Ulm, ((507) 233-5310 or mmckeown@dnu. org.
70 years
Cliff and Bernette (Hillesheim) Schumacher were married on May 26, 1955. They are members of St. Mary, Sleepy Eye.
65 years
Nyle and Mary (Epple) Mills were married Sept. 3, 1960. They are members of St. George, West Newton Township.
Celebrating 125 years of Catholic school education in Springfield
SPRINGFIELD – The parish community of Springfield, Minn., with a Catholic population of around 1,104, recently celebrated a significant milestone – 125 years of Catholic education. The Church of St. Raphael, which celebrated its first Mass in 1874, stands as a testament to the unwavering commitment and dedication of the Springfield Catholic community to education and faith.
St. Raphael Catholic School, a long-standing educational pillar in Springfield, is one of the oldest Catholic schools in the Diocese of New Ulm. And on Friday, February 28, students, staff, families, alumni, and friends of the parish and school gathered at St Raphael’s to celebrate 125 years of Catholic education.
Since its establishment in 1900, St. Raphael School has undergone many changes but amidst those changes has continued to provide generations of students with a quality education in faith. In 1939, a new school was built for $81,000, and an addition was added in 1964 for $280,300. From 1919 through 1929, St. Raphael’s also had a Catholic high school. In June 1988, seventh and eighth grades were discontinued, kindergarten was added in 1990, and pre-kindergarten in 2000.
Today, the school educates
During the school celebration, alumni Steve and Carrie Schmitz spoke about how the school provided a firm foundation of faith. (Photo by Michelle Kramer)
students in grades pre-kindergarten through grade six.
The school’s 125th anniversary celebration included a meal and a presentation with keynote speakers Carrie and Steve Schmitz, alumni of St. Raphael Catholic School, and music by the Generation Gap Band. The evening was a true celebration of the life and legacy at St. Raphael’s, mirrored in all of our diocesan Catholic schools.
Like so many others, Steve and Carrie Schmitz told their story of how St. Raphael School provided a firm foundation in faith that they carried with them into adulthood.
They shared about the legacy they are in turn creating for their own children and grandchildren as they continue to further the mission of Catholic education in new places and spaces. The Schmitz’s played a pivotal role in establishing Ave Maria Academy in Maple Grove, Minn., a thriving institution that continues to impact young lives with its strong Catholic foundation. In their words, Catholic schools may not be perfect, but in God’s great plan they are “perfectly different” because they help children understand that they have eternal purpose.
Director of Schools for the Diocese of New Ulm, Dr. Michelle Kramer, underscored this sentiment. “Celebrating 125 years is a momentous occasion and St. Raphael’s honored the event beautifully. It was a night for all of us – alumni, legacy parents, parishioners, and supporters of all Catholic schools – to celebrate our mission. Our schools are committed to providing children with an experience that is uniquely different, where we form SAINTS as well as scholars. We value academic excellence and rigor, but our higher call is to bring young people to Christ,” Kramer said.
School Superintendent Fr. Jeremy Kucera, (far left) is pictured with St. Raphael staff and students. Established in 1900, the school offers education to prekindergarten through grade 6. (Photo submitted)
NEW ULM – The Christian faithful of the Diocese of New Ulm are encouraged to visit the Jubilee 2025: Pilgrims of Hope web page, www.dnu.org/ jubilee2025 for Jubilee Year resources and upcoming events in the diocese.
Two Minnesotans are being considered to become the state’s first saints. In January, leaders of the Diocese of Crookston, Minnesota, sent a letter to the Vatican to take the next saintly step on behalf of Sister Annella
Zervas. The letter follows the November 12 decision by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) to advance the canonization cause of Sister Annella Zervas, who died at age 26 of a rare disease.
Also being considered for canonization is Monsignor Joseph Buh. The Diocese of Duluth describes Buh, a missionary from Slovenia who served the Slovenian immigrant and Native American communities in Minnesota until his death in 1922,
as a role model for people of all times.
In July, the diocese exhumed Buh’s body to eventually move it to its cathedral, a decision made solely to honor “the Patriarch of the diocese.”
BALTIMORE,
MD – Catholic Relief Services’ (CRS) Rice Bowl program is celebrating its 50th year of funding hunger and poverty alleviation efforts around the world. The program, which is supported by more than 12,000 Catholic parishes and schools across the United States, has raised more than $350 million since its inception.
“For half a century, CRS Rice Bowl has been a pillar of our work,” said Sean Callahan, CRS president and CEO. “It has given hope to millions of our sisters and brothers experiencing hunger. We are humbled by the generous support that Catholics across the U.S. have shown for CRS Rice Bowl and for their global family.”
In 1975, CRS Rice Bowl began in Allentown, Pennsylvania as a response to the devastating drought and famine affecting
families in the Sahel region of Africa. “Operation Rice Bowl,” as it was known then, was adopted in 1976 under the guidance of CRS in preparation for the 41st Eucharistic Congress. The bishops in the United States voted for it to be the official program of CRS in 1977.
Sadly, the issue of hunger is just as relevant now as it was in 1975. Since 2020 and the COVID-19 pandemic, hunger levels have remained high. In some parts of the world, the levels are increasing. Despite efforts to combat this rise, the world is still
far off track to achieve the United Nations’ Zero Hunger goal.
In celebration of CRS Rice Bowl’s 50th anniversary, supporters are invited to join CRS for a virtual bilingual prayer event to end global hunger. When you register at www.crsricebowl.org/ prayer-night you will receive a Zoom link to join the session.
Supporters are also invited to visit crsricebowl.org and share a Lenten prayer intention on the new interactive global map.
