October-November 2025 The Prairie Catholic by c. clancy

Minnesota’s Most Rural Diocese Diocese of New Ulm Vol. 40 No. 2 October/November 2025

Diocese hosts Blue Mass to recognize sacrifice of first responders, military personnel

NEW ULM – The diocese held its Blue Mass on Monday, Sept. 29, 2025, at the Church of St. Mary in New Ulm. The Mass was celebrated by Bishop Chad Zielinski, a former Air Force military chaplain who served three tours of duty in war zones, including Iraq and Afghanistan, and retired with the rank of Major. The Blue Mass is a significant event that expresses gratitude for the sacrifices made by first responders and military personnel, while also strengthening community support. In the photo above, Bishop Zielinski (middle) poses in military uniform with first responders and military personnel in front of the city’s fire truck following the Mass.

(Photos by Christy Baker)

2025 Diocesan Ministries Appeal

See page 8 for DMA Special Coverage

Popular evangelist discusses his journey back to the Catholic faith

by Christine Clancy

The Prairie Catholic

NEW ULM – Jeff Cavins is well known for his engaging teaching style on the Catholic faith, making theological truths accessible to everyone by expressing them practically.

A recognized figure both nationally and internationally Cavins is more than just a public speaker; he is also an author, television host, podcaster, Catholic evangelist, and biblical scholar. One of his most notable contributions is the development of the ‘Great Adventure Bible Timeline,’ a resource that provides context and understanding of the different periods of salvation history. This work gained widespread attention when it was featured in Diocese of Duluth’s priest Fr. Mike Schmitz’s popular ‘Bible in a Year’ podcast, which

reached the #1 position on Apple Podcasts in 2021.

At the invitation of the Holy Cross Area Faith Community (New Ulm, Searles, St. George, and West Newton Township), Cavins was in the Diocese of New Ulm on Sept. 10, 2025, delivering a powerful speech at the Church of St. Mary in New Ulm. His presentation, titled “Alive and Found: Finding My Home Again in the Catholic Church,” was a profoundly personal account of his journey from a non-denominational pastor to his return to Catholicism.

Cavins was initially scheduled to speak at the Holy Cross AFC’s “Awake My Soul” event in August of last year, but due to travel delays beyond his control, he could not be present.

Cavins conversion story

A native of Minneapolis, Cavins was raised Catholic but

presentation

eventually moved away from his Catholic roots to become a Protestant pastor. After serving in that capacity for 12 years, he began to question the foundations of Christian truth.

Through his studies of the early Church Fathers, he recognized fundamental elements that were present in the Catholic Church but absent from his independent church. In Cavins’ own words,

he “studied his way back into the Catholic Church.”

During his “Alive and Found” presentation to the Holy Cross AFC family, Cavins shared how he found his true spiritual home within the Catholic Church after years of being away. He encouraged his audience to “put your faith into practice” and to be true disciples of Jesus. “Walk like Him, become like Him, and allow Him to change you and use you in a powerful way,” he said.

Cavins emphasized that as disciples, we are called to love and to help others, speak the truth, and humble ourselves, allowing God to use us for the good of His Kingdom.

To view Cavin’s September presentation at the Church of St. Mary in New Ulm visit www. holycrossafc.org/.

Over 850 students gather for Mass of the Holy Spirit

by Dr. Michelle Kramer

NEW ULM – On Sept. 19, 2025, Bishop Chad W. Zielinski gathered with Catholic school students, faculty, and clergy of the Diocese of New Ulm to celebrate a Mass of the Holy Spirit for Catholic schools, a first of its kind in the diocese. This long-planned event, held at the Church of St. Mary in New Ulm, took place at a poignant time – just weeks after the tragic event at Annunciation Church in Minneapolis, which had occurred during their school Mass.

Amid this grief, the Mass of the Holy Spirit carried the message of

hope that the Holy Spirit always provides.

Traditionally held at the start of the academic year, the Mass of the Holy Spirit seeks the Spirit’s guidance and renews awareness of the gifts received at Baptism. It unites students, faculty, and clergy in prayer, inspiring everyone to live as missionary disciples in the year ahead.

A spirit-filled gathering Before the celebration of the Mass, Sonar Worship, a Catholic band from St. Paul, led a praise and

(Continued on page 3.)

In September, nationally-known evangelist Jeff Cavins gave a

at the Church of St. Mary in New Ulm.

(Photo by Christy Baker)

A procession of banners representing all 13 Catholic schools symbolized the unity of the diocesan Catholic school community.

(Photo by Christine Clancy)

“God

found it very good.”

by Bishop Chad W. Zielinski

The past 6 to 8 weeks in our nation have unfortunately suffered some deeply sad and profoundly evil events that undermine the beauty, goodness, and truth of God’s creation. This has prompted me to enter a period of deep prayer and reflection before the perfect goodness of our Lord Jesus Christ, present in the Blessed Sacrament. It is through Jesus, the Prince of Peace in the Holy Eucharist, that we rush to find meaning and consolation when evil attempts to desecrate the divine imprint of the “goodness of all of creation.”

Sadly, much of what we have witnessed reflects a destruction of the “imago Dei” (sacred image of God) imprinted in man and woman, who are created in the image and likeness of God.

The Bishop’s Column: That they may have life

All of creation is created good. In Genesis 1:3, God said: “Let there be light,” and there was light. Following this in verse 4, God saw that the light was good.

His declaration of goodness repeats at the end of each day of creation. In Genesis 1:31, God crowns his creation with man and woman and we read, “God looked at everything he had made, and found it very good. Evening came, and morning followed—the sixth day.”

God’s word was unleashed in an all-powerful, perfect act of love that had no boundaries. He was so madly in love with the man and woman (male and female were his idea from the beginning) that he unleashed this pro-creative gift unto humanity. God got it completely right from the beginning. This divine gift, by God’s design, is imprinted in our DNA. So, when we view the world, we do so through a divinely imprinted lens that has a riveting fixation on goodness, holiness, and truth. All of creation, including man and woman, reflects God’s holy order–a profound blessing unleashed upon all of creation.

Regrettably, the serpent, the Evil One, slithered into the scene to tempt Adam and Eve in their state of Original Holiness to take

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

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.

fruit from the forbidden tree. The temptation was not just about the act of picking the fruit; it involved the belief that they could be like God. In other words, they sought to claim the power of God and to remake the world according to their own design. They attempted to redefine beauty, goodness, and truth, striving to reconstruct the original holy order that God had established. They tried to determine right from wrong, good from evil, and to reconstruct man and woman, who reflect God’s divine blueprint, which was declared “very good.” Tragically, this mindset remains very much present in our society today.

Because of the Fall, not only is our image of ourselves as beloved Sons and Daughters of God distorted but our human relationships are also fractured.

I do not need to recount each of the recent events that destroyed beautiful human lives.

In all of these incidents, the perpetrators lost sight of the goodness of humanity and their own goodness. They themselves reflect the sacred image of God which is ordered to look at others created in his image and to promote goodness in our society. Sadly, those suffering from mental health conditions influenced by

evil cannot perceive all of God’s creation as good, nor can they live in healthy and holy relationships with others.

Unfortunately, the response to these atrocities has often turned into a political battle, creating further division in a society where God has created us to live in communion with him and one another.

I believe Saint Thomas Aquinas, a philosopher, theologian, and doctor of the Church, offers profound insights in his “Summa Theologica” on the concept of the common good, which he sees as rooted in creation and reflecting God’s holy desire that we live in union with him and one another. This common good serves as the foundation of the human family.

Additionally, he sees the foundation of this common good as friendship. Genuine friendship, rooted in beauty, goodness, and truth, reflects our union with God and honors that divine image in others. Saint Thomas’ understanding of friendship as the basis for the common good is precisely what our society needs at this moment. It is a direction we must pursue. However, this must be rooted in the truth, divine law, and the goodness of God’s holy order in creation.

Recently, life circumstances have facilitated an opportunity for me to engage with various groups of Gen Zers. I am impressed by their worldview. Like Saint Thomas Aquinas, they desire a society founded on justice ordered toward the common good and in alignment with divine law. They view friendship with God and one another as a unifying force for the human family. They seem to be tired of political polarization and have no intention of supporting a morally unfettered society that disregards the sacred image of God present in every person, from conception to natural death. They believe that divine law should not be subject to popular vote. They are strongly pro-life and desire to have larger families. Their Catholic faith is extremely important to them; they attend regular Mass, Holy Days and adoration of the Holy Eucharist. This group of young men and women gives me great courage and hope.

While I give a “shout out” to the Gen Zers, I am hopeful in seeing the same mindset throughout many generations in the Diocese of New Ulm. Let us increase our prayer with great fervor, striving for the common good, rooted in friendship with God and one another.

Pope Leo releases Dilexi te, expressing the Church’s unwavering commitment to the poor and marginalized

VATICAN – Pope Leo XIV’s first major document is an apostolic exhortation titled Dilexi te, which means “I have loved you.” Released by the Vatican in October, this exhortation focuses on the Church’s call to care for the poor and marginalized, including migrants and refugees. It emphasizes that love for the poor is a core tenet of faith, discusses various forms of poverty, and encourages practical and systemic action against injustice.

teach others reliance on God.

w The document addresses the need to move beyond individual acts of charity to actively work on

“The poor can act as silent teachers for us, making us conscious of our presumption and instilling within us a rightful spirit of humility.” Dilexi te (“I Have Loved You”)

changing the systems and policies that perpetuate poverty.

the importance of recognizing Christ in every rejected migrant, fostering a sense of compassion and understanding.

Continuity with his predecessor: Dilexi te continues the themes of care for the poor and solidarity with them that were central to Pope Francis’s pontificate, with Pope Leo explicitly referencing his predecessor’s work throughout the document.

Structure and style:

In contrast to Pope Francis’s more conversational and contemporary style which often draws on personal experiences and current events, this document is noted as being more structured, historical, and traditionally organized. It follows a clear outline, with each section building on the previous one, and it often references the teachings of Church Fathers and scripture to support its arguments.

Theme: The central theme of the exhortation is “love for the poor,” positioning it as an essential and non-optional part of the Christian faith.

Key points:

w It highlights that the poor are not just recipients of charity; they can also serve as evangelists who

w It discusses new and subtle forms of poverty, including those caused by economic systems that favor wealth accumulation at the expense of the poor. These forms can include a lack of access to quality education, healthcare, and basic human rights, as well as the psychological and emotional toll of living in a society that values material wealth over human dignity.

w It frames the Church’s mission as building bridges for the displaced and emphasizes

Statement of ownership, management, circulation

During the 2024-2025 publishing year, The Prairie Catholic was published every six weeks, September – June resulting in seven issues. Location of the office of publication and general business office of the publisher, Bishop Chad W. Zielinski, 1421 6th Street North, New Ulm, MN 56073-2071. The editor is Christine E. Clancy, 1421 6th Street North, New Ulm, MN 560732071. The Prairie Catholic, the publication of a non-profit organization, is authorized to mail at special rates, according to Section 411.3 DMM postal regulation(s). The Prairie Catholic accepts advertising only by invitation.

“God

found it very good.”

by Bishop Chad W. Zielinski

Sadly, much of what we have witnessed reflects a destruction of the “imago Dei” (sacred image of God) imprinted in man and woman, who are created in the image and likeness of God.

The Bishop’s Column: That they may have life

All of creation is created good. In Genesis 1:3, God said: “Let there be light,” and there was light. Following this in verse 4, God saw that the light was good.

Regrettably, the serpent, the Evil One, slithered into the scene to tempt Adam and Eve in their state of Original Holiness to take

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

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.

Because of the Fall, not only is our image of ourselves as beloved Sons and Daughters of God distorted but our human relationships are also fractured.

I do not need to recount each of the recent events that destroyed beautiful human lives.

evil cannot perceive all of God’s creation as good, nor can they live in healthy and holy relationships with others.

Pope Leo releases Dilexi te, expressing the Church’s unwavering commitment to the poor and marginalized

teach others reliance on God.

w The document addresses the need to move beyond individual acts of charity to actively work on

“The poor can act as silent teachers for us, making us conscious of our presumption and instilling within us a rightful spirit of humility.” Dilexi te (“I Have Loved You”)

changing the systems and policies that perpetuate poverty.

the importance of recognizing Christ in every rejected migrant, fostering a sense of compassion and understanding.

Continuity with his predecessor: “Dilexi te” continues the themes of care for the poor and solidarity with them that were central to Pope Francis’s pontificate, with Pope Leo explicitly referencing his predecessor’s work throughout the document.

Structure and style:

Theme: The central theme of the exhortation is “love for the poor,” positioning it as an essential and non-optional part of the Christian faith.

Key points:

w It highlights that the poor are not just recipients of charity; they can also serve as evangelists who

w It frames the Church’s mission as building bridges for the displaced and emphasizes

Statement of ownership, management, circulation

diocesan church

Hispanic Catholics gather for inaugural Hispanic Catholic Congress

by Anisabel Palma

WILLMAR – On Sunday, Sept. 14, 2025, the Diocese of New Ulm celebrated a historic moment with its first Diocesan Hispanic Catholic Congress, held at the Church of St. Mary in Willmar.

The afternoon gathering, part of the Jubilee Year of Hope 2025, brought together Christian faithful from Willmar, Montevideo, Renville, Murdock, Olivia, Marshall, Litchfield, New Ulm, and other parish communities across the diocese for prayer, formation, and celebration.

The event opened with a powerful hour of Eucharistic praise and worship, where participants lifted their voices in song and prayer before the Blessed Sacrament, while the sacrament of Reconciliation was offered. This opening set the tone for a day focused on renewal, healing, and joy.

Fr. Peter Arteaga, MSpS, Provincial Superior of the Missionaries of the Holy Spirit, served as the keynote presenter. Born in Germany, formed in Mexico, and ordained in Milan, Father Arteaga has carried out priestly ministry around the world, including Africa to Europe, the Americas, and Alaska. His diverse work spans formation, seminary teaching, youth ministry, missionary outreach, and pastoral

Hispanic Catholics of the Diocese of New Ulm join in praise and worship during the first Hispanic Catholic Congress held in September at the Church of St.

leadership. His invitation to speak at the Congress came from the Most Rev. Chad Zielinski, Bishop of New Ulm, who is a long-time friend of Father Arteaga.

In his message, Father Arteaga reflected on the call to unity as members of the Body of Christ, the hope that sustains us, and the universal call to holiness. He reminded participants that faith is never lived in isolation but always in communion, emphasizing the vital role of Hispanic Catholics in the Church’s mission today.

The highlight of the day was the celebration of the Eucharist,

presided over by Bishop Chad Zielinski and concelebrated by Father Arteaga and several priests serving the Hispanic communities throughout the diocese: Fr. Brian Mandel, Fr. Mark Mallak, Fr. Joshua Bot, Fr. John Hayes, and Fr. Jeff Horejsi.

Bishop Zielinski expressed gratitude for the growing vitality of Hispanic ministry in the diocese and for the dedicated priests serving these communities.

The liturgy, celebrated in Spanish, showcased the rich faith and cultural traditions of the Hispanic community, embodying

Mass of the Holy Spirit - a new tradition

(Continued from page 1.)

and worship session. The opening included a unique procession featuring banners representing all 13 Catholic schools in the diocese, symbolizing the unity of the diocesan Catholic school community.

Before the celebration of the Mass, diocesan priest Fr. Matthew Wiering addressed the youth, highlighting the examples of the Church’s two newest young saints: Pier Giorgio Frassati and Carlo Acutis. He reminded the students of their universal call to holiness. “If we want to be full of life and have a heart full of love for others, the first thing we need to do is belong totally to God,” Fr. Wiering said.

Bishop Zielinski, accompanied by several diocesan priests, presided over the Mass. In his homily, he echoed the exhortation from his episcopal installation: “Hear God, Hand Him Your Heart, and Have Hope.” Acknowledging the challenges of a noisy and often dark world, the bishop urged students to remain attentive to the Lord’s voice and to extend His love to those in need within their schools and communities.

A growing tradition

With support from the Catholic School Center of Excellence, large-scale Masses of the Holy Spirit have become a tradition in the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis, where students have gathered at venues such as the Grand Casino Arena (formerly the

Xcel Center) and Target Field.

The Diocese of New Ulm’s Mass of the Holy Spirit gathered about 850 youth in grades 5 through 12, representing nearly half of the diocese’s 1,850 Catholic school students.

Although smaller in scale than that of the archdiocese, the Mass carried the same spirit of unity and renewal, marking the beginning of a meaningful new tradition in Catholic education in the Diocese of New Ulm.

Editor’s note: Dr. Michelle Kramer is the director of Catholic Schools for the Diocese of New Ulm, mkramer@dnu.org, (507) 233-5323.

Congress keynote Fr. Peter Arteaga, left, along with Fr. Brian Mandel, Fr. Joshua Bot, and Fr. Mark Mallak, priests who serve the Hispanic faith communities in the diocese, concelebrate Mass with New Ulm’s bishop, the Most Reverend Chad Zielinski. (Photos submitted)

the themes of communion and mission.

The Congress concluded with a shared meal, which provided participants with an opportunity to meet, reconnect, and continue conversations that had been sparked during the day. It truly exemplified the Church as the family of God – gathered, nourished, and sent forth.

This first Diocese of New Ulm Hispanic Catholic Congress has marked a milestone for the diocese, affirmming its commitment to walk together in faith and to strengthen the

leadership of Hispanic Catholics.

The Congress was both a celebration of identity and a call to mission, echoing the words of Pope Francis: “The joy of the Gospel fills the hearts and lives of all who encounter Jesus.”

Editor’s note: Anisabel Palma is the director of the Office of Hispanic Ministry for the Diocese of New Ulm, apalma@dnu.org, (507) 233-5360.

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Mary in Willmar.

por Bishop Chad Zielinski

Para todo hay tiempo

En las últimas 6 a 8 semanas nuestra nación han sufrido varios acontecimientos muy tristes y malignos que dañan la belleza, la bondad y la verdad de la creación de Dios. Esto me ha impulsado a un período de profunda oración y reflexión ante la perfecta bondad de nuestro Señor Jesucristo, presente en el Santísimo Sacramento. A través de Jesús, el Príncipe de la Paz en la Sagrada Eucaristía, en su apuro por encontrar un significado y consuelo cuando el mal intenta profanar la huella divina de la “bondad de toda la creación.”

Tristemente, mucho de lo que hemos sido testigos refleja una destrucción de la “imago Dei” (imagen sagrada de Dios) impresa en el hombre y la mujer, creados a imagen y semejanza de Dios.

Toda creación fue creada buena. En Génesis 1:3, Dios dijo: “Sea la luz”, y la luz fue. A continuación, en el versículo 4, Dios vio que la luz era buena.

Su declaración de bondad se repite al final de cada día de la creación. En Génesis 1:31, Dios corona su creación con el hombre y la mujer, y leemos: “y vió Dios todo lo que había hecho, y he aquí que era bueno. Y fue la tarde y la mañana el día sexto.”

La palabra de Dios se desató en un acto de amor todopoderoso y perfecto, sin límites. Estaba perdidamente enamorado del hombre y la mujer (varón y mujer fueron su idea desde el principio) que desató este don procreativo para la humanidad. Dios lo acertó completamente desde el principio. Este don divino, por diseño divino, está grabado en nuestro ADN. Así, cuando vemos el mundo, lo hacemos a través de un lente divinamente impreso, con una fijación fascinante en la bondad, la santidad y la verdad. Toda creación, incluyendo al

Para que tengan vida

hombre y a la mujer, refleja el orden sagrado de Dios: una profunda bendición derramada sobre toda la creación.

Lamentablemente, la serpiente, el Maligno, irrumpió en escena para tentar a Adán y Eva, en su estado de Santidad Original, de tomar el fruto del árbol prohibido. La tentación no se limitaba al acto de recoger el fruto; implicaba la creencia de que podían ser como Dios. En otras palabras, buscaron apropiarse del poder de Dios y rehacer el mundo según su propio diseño. Intentaron redefinir la belleza, la bondad y la verdad, esforzándose por reconstruir el orden sagrado original que Dios había establecido. Intentaron distinguir el bien del mal, y reconstruir al hombre y a la mujer, quienes reflejan el plan divino de Dios, declarado “muy bueno.” Trágicamente, esta mentalidad sigue muy presente en nuestra sociedad actual.

Debido a la caída, no solo se distorsiona nuestra imagen de nosotros mismos como amados Hijos e Hijas de Dios, sino que también se fracturan nuestras relaciones humanas.

No necesito enumerar cada uno de los eventos recientes que destruyeron hermosas vidas humanas.

En todos estos incidentes, los perpetradores perdieron de vista la bondad de la humanidad y la suya. Ellos mismos reflejan la imagen sagrada de Dios, que nos ordena mirar a los demás, creados a su imagen, y promover la bondad en nuestra sociedad. Lamentablemente, quienes padecen enfermedades mentales, influenciadas por el mal, no pueden percibir toda la creación de Dios como buena ni vivir en relaciones sanas y santas con los demás.

Desafortunadamente, la respuesta a estas atrocidades a menudo se ha convertido en una batalla política, creando aún más división en una sociedad donde Dios nos creó para vivir en comunión con él y entre nosotros.

Creo que Santo Tomás de Aquino, filósofo, teólogo y doctor de la Iglesia, ofrece unas reflexiones profundas en su “Summa Theologica” sobre el concepto del bien común, que

considera en la creación que refleja el santo deseo de Dios que vivamos en unión con él y entre nosotros. Este bien común sirve como fundamento de la familia humana.

Además, él ve el fundamento de este bien común como compañerismo. La amistad verdadera, basada en la belleza, la bondad y la verdad, refleja nuestra unión con Dios y honra esa imagen divina en los demás. La comprensión de Santo Tomás sobre la amistad como base del bien común es precisamente lo que nuestra sociedad necesita en este momento. Es una dirección que debemos seguir. Sin embargo, debe estar arraigada en la verdad, la ley divina y la bondad del orden sagrado de Dios en la creación.

Recientemente, las circunstancias de la vida me han brindado la oportunidad de interactuar con varios grupos de la Generación Z. Me impresiona su visión del mundo. Al igual que Santo Tomás de Aquino, anhelan una sociedad fundada en la justicia, orientada al bien común y en consonancia con la ley divina. Consideran la amistad con Dios y entre sí como una fuerza unificadora para la familia. Parecen estar cansados de la polarización política y no tienen intención de apoyar una sociedad moralmente libre que ignore la imagen sagrada de Dios presente en cada persona, desde la concepción hasta la muerte natural. Creen que la ley divina no debe estar sujeta al voto popular. Ellos son firmemente pro-vida y desean tener familias numerosas. Su fe católica es fundamental para ellos; asisten regularmente a misa, a los días festivos y a la adoración de la Sagrada Eucaristía. Este grupo de jóvenes me infunde gran valor y esperanza.

Si bien quiero expresar mi reconocimiento a la Generación Z, tengo la esperanza de ver la misma mentalidad a lo largo de muchas generaciones en la Diócesis de New Ulm. Incrementemos nuestra oración con gran fervor, esforzándonos por el bien común, arraigado en la amistad con Dios y entre nosotros.

Committed to safeguarding the most vulnerable

by Aldean Hendrickson

Pope Francis opened his 2016 document Come una madre amorevole (“As a loving mother”) with a strong statement of the Church’s care and responsibility in the work of safeguarding those most in danger of harm:

“The Church loves all her children like a loving mother, but cares for all and protects with a special affection those who are smallest and defenseless. This is the duty that Christ himself entrusted to the entire Christian community as a whole. Aware of this, the Church is especially vigilant in protecting children and vulnerable adults.”

It is often easy to view the various programs and rules related to the Church’s safe environment as burdensome – a temporary inconvenience until things can return to “normal.” However, the Church’s commitment to safeguarding is unwavering.

There will never be a time when the Church does not strive to protect the weak and vulnerable, es-pecially our innocent children. Safeguarding is always an essential and necessary part of the Church’s mission, and we can never tire of doing everything needed to fulfill this duty.

As Pope Francis wrote in the introduction to Vos estis lux Mundi (“You are the Light of the World”) in 2019:

“The crimes of sexual abuse offend Our Lord, cause physical, psychological, and spiritual damage to the victims, and harm the community of the faithful. So that these phenomena, in all their forms, never happen again, a continuous and profound conversion of hearts is needed, attested by concrete and effective actions that involve everyone in the Church, so that personal sanctity and moral commitment can contribute to promoting the full credibility of the Gospel message and the effectiveness of the Church’s mission. This becomes possible only with the grace of the Holy Spirit poured into our hearts, as we must always keep in mind the words of Jesus: ‘Apart from me

you can do nothing’ (Jn 15:5). Even if so much has already been accomplished, we must continue to learn from the bitter lessons of the past, looking with hope towards the future.”

Here in the Diocese of New Ulm, we have been working for decades not only to address the wounds caused by sexual abuse by clergy but also to proactively build a culture of vigilance to prevent such actions from occurring again. This proactive approach empowers each of us to be part of the solution.

The Most Reverend Chad Zielinski, bishop of New Ulm, continues to support and encourage vital safe environment initiatives in our diocese. The most recent comprehensive on-site audit of safe environment practices, required every three years, was completed in 2024. The audit confirmed that the diocese complies with all aspects mandated by the ongoing commitment to the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People.

However, a commitment to safeguarding children, youth, and other vulnerable individuals requires more than merely ticking boxes of a task completed. In response to observations and suggestions from the audit on how the diocese could improve, Bishop Zielinski is leading diocesan staff and the Diocesan Review Board for Sexual Misconduct in a thorough review of the diocese’s safe environment policies.

The goal of this review and revision process is to ensure that all policies are current, consistent, and truly reflective of their mission and purpose, so that our churches and schools remain safe spaces for everyone, especially for those who are most vulnerable.

Aldean Hendrickson serves as the Safe Environment Coordinator for the Diocese of New Ulm, ahendrickson@dnu. org, (507) 233-5329.

family life

Infertility topic of discussion at October’s diocesan Ethics Conference

by Sr. Candace Fier, ISSM Diocesan Director of Family Life

On Oct. 11, 2025, participants of the Diocese of New Ulm’s annual Ethics Conference gathered at Schoenstatt on the Lake in Sleepy Eye, Minn., to explore infertility, IVF, surrogacy, and the family, and what guidance does the Church provide?

The choice of topic was intentional, aimed at highlighting a growing concern and debate in our country. Dr. April Lind, MD, IFMCP, provided context for the discussion: “Twelve to fifteen percent of married couples in the United States experience infertility, a condition affecting the male or female reproductive system, defined by the inability to achieve pregnancy after 12 months or more of regular unprotected sexual intercourse.”

Dr. Lind began her presentation by emphasizing the dignity of every human person, created in the image and likeness of God, and highlighting the unity of body and soul. She encouraged participants to explore the reproductive treatment options such as IVF, surrogacy and restorative reproductive medicine through the framework of Catholic teaching. She highlighted the guiding principles from Catholic tradition, which include respecting the dignity of every human life and the integrity of the marital act.

The reproductive decisions that couples face are challenging, as reflected in the difficulties

identified in various aspects of their relationship. Dr. Lind underlined the importance of accompanying couples with compassion, sharing the beauty and truth of Catholic teaching while acknowledging their specific suffering and struggles. Additionally, she encouraged the pursuit of moral medical options and root cause care.

Dr. Lind then led a discussion on infertility treatments, focusing on those deemed morally acceptable by the Church. These include natural methods such as timed intercourse, and medications or surgery that address underlying infertility causes to enhance procreative function. In contrast, methods considered morally unacceptable include IVF and third-party reproduction (donor eggs, sperm, or embryos) and surrogacy, because they separate procreation from the marital act.

In the context of this medical information Sr. Nancy Arroyo, PhD, Professor of Bioethics at the Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico in Ponce, P.R. introduced the importance of ethics as a guiding tool in making moral decisions. “Ethics gives us the structure for decision-making. Faith gives us the orientation and strength that make those ethical decisions meaningful,” stated Sr. Nancy.

She further explains, “Bioethics is a refinement in the area of ethics, a new discipline, serving as a bridge to facilitate the encounter

and interaction between natural sciences and the humanities. It is an area of study that is urgent today in the face of advancements in science and technology that can come without the necessary ethical criteria.”

Sr. Nancy stressed to the participants that, “Bioethics is meant to offer reference values and objective answers based on rationally valid criteria.” Bioethics is to enlighten and guide science and technology through faith and reason. Therefore, it should uphold the teachings of the Church toward respect for human life at all stages and is a tool for analyzing, interpreting, and resolving dilemmas.

Sr. Nancy then introduced the participants to the Church

documents that contain objective guidance on the questions and concerns raised by infertility, IVF, and surrogacy. These documents include the Catechism of the Catholic Church; Donum Vitae 1987; Evangelium Vitae 1995; Dignitas Personae 2008; and Dignitas infinita 2024.

The ethical framework of bioethics that Sr. Nancy laid out gave direction for the moral choices to be made and quickly became a practical tool for participants as they engaged with a series of case studies that identified the dilemmas connected with IVF and surrogacy.

Those moral choices were the segue into a discussion of responses to infertility in hope, rooted in human dignity,

that couples can make. The first response is Restorative Reproductive Medicine (RRM), the compre-hensive evaluation of men and women to identify the root causes of infertility and determine appropriate treatments. The goal of RRM is to achieve a single pregnancy through natural conception. When the resources of RRM do not resolve the issue of infertility, the couple can turn to other responses of hope, such as foster care and adoption.

Participants left the conference with comprehensive resources to explore the medical topics discussed, as well as Church teaching and practical tools to respond to bioethical issues. Visit dnu.org/ethicsconference where the conference talks and resources are available.

U.S. Catholic bishops respond to expansion of access to IVF and fertility treatments

Infertility is a growing issue today, affecting many couples and raising medical and moral concerns. This is particularly relevant with the Trump administration’s plans to expand access to in vitro fertilization (IVF).

On October 17, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops issued a statement on these moral implications; www.usccb.org/news/2025/ bishop-chairmen-respondadministrations-announcementexpansion-access-ivf-andfertility.

Advent - a time to focus more on loving God and our neighbors

by Tony Rossi, director The Christophers

As we light the first Advent candle on November 30, the real countdown to Christmas begins! While TV movies, Christmas songs on the radio, and decorating have already started, the first Sunday of Advent officially marks the season from a Christian perspective. It’s always enlightening to explore how different people interpret the days leading up to the celebration of Jesus’ birth.

For example, during Advent a couple of years ago, awardwinning author Amy Julia Becker used her social media platforms to examine the contrasting responses

of two Biblical figures to the news of Jesus’ coming. Becker noted, “When Mary hears the message that she has been chosen by God to be the mother of Jesus, Luke tells us she was ‘troubled.’

When King Herod hears from the three magi that Jesus has been born, Matthew tells us he was ‘troubled.’ The news that Jesus is coming disrupts their lives.”

“Herod responds with denial and violence,” Becker continued. “Mary responds with surrender and acceptance and receptivity. The news of God’s love entering our world disrupts our expectations. It challenges us and proclaims our belovedness apart from our achievements or worth. It exposes injustice. The news of God’s love entering the world

invites us to healing and freedom. It threatens us with radical acceptance and grace. God’s love is a holy disruption that might trouble us deeply. How will we respond?”

Though we often think of Lent as a greater season of “holy disruption,” Advent also challenges us to step outside ourselves and focus more on loving God and our neighbors. In fact, if you search online, you may find “Advent of Kindness” calendars to help foster this spirit, or you could create one of your own.

Here are some suggestions: While waiting in line at a store, let someone go ahead of you. Reconnect with an old friend or relative with whom you’ve lost touch; if there was a disagreement, try your best to make peace.Write a thank-you note to someone and express gratitude to anyone who helps you throughout your day. Bake Christmas cookies for

a neighbor. Provide a meal to someone in need. Learn about another person whose life or beliefs differ from yours, and see if you can find common ground. And most importantly, pray and strive to be more like Jesus by serving others with love.

Advent is also the perfect time to engage in joyful community activities – a community that comes together in prayer and song to welcome Christ into our hearts.

This Advent, may each of us discover our own way to make the season meaningful and fulfilling.

Dr. April Lind’s presentation underlined the importance of accompanying couples with compassion and truth of Catholic teaching while sharing a holistic approach to treating infertility. (Photo by Christy Baker)

Through fire & storm, Comfrey parish marks 125 years of resilience, renewal

Holy Rosary in Mankato celebrates 100 years of faithfilled community

by Deacon Ryan Pope Prairie Catholic correspondent

one hundred years ago, in the autumn of 1924, a young priest named Fr. Joseph Freisleben stood in a weed-covered field in North Mankato. “What an act of faith,” said Fr. Paul van de Crommert, the pastor of the Church of the Holy Rosary. “Accompanied by his friend, Fr. August Rhode, the two priests surveyed the land—which was little more than wagon ruts and wild grass—and envisioned a parish and school.”

by Deacon Ryan Pope Prairie Catholic correspondent

The term “quasquicentennial” may be difficult to pronounce, but the legacy it signifies is anything but ordinary. For 125 years, the Church of St. Paul in Comfrey, Minn., has been a testament to faith, resilience, and renewal.

“It’s a very beautiful thing,” shared Fr. Craig Timmerman, pastor of the Divine Mercy Area of Faith Community. “God brought the faith to this specific area that through the generations, people could receive faith and eternal life.”

At the turn of the twentieth century, the growing agricultural community of Comfrey saw some expansion, especially after the Chicago and Northwestern Railway acquired and enhanced its rail systems. Under the leadership of Archbishop John Ireland, the expansive Archdiocese of Saint Paul directed the establishment of St. Paul’s Parish to serve the Catholic community in Comfrey.

Foundations of faith

With the support and pastoral care of Fr. Francis Smalian, pastor of the Lamberton parish, the St. Paul’s Catholic parish was incorporated on Oct. 27, 1900. After the winter months, construction of the parish church commenced in 1901 at a cost of $4,000, with over half the amount raised by the new parish.

Fr. Joseph Knafele became the first resident pastor of the parish in July 1902. He also tended to the pastoral needs of nearby Leavenworth. In 1903, Fr. Mathias Stuckel of Wabasso served the communities of Comfrey, Wabasso, and Leavenworth. Fr. Albert

Ziskovsky served as resident pastor in 1908 until 1921. His tenure was marked by the enlargement of the parish church and the establishment of St. Paul’s School and a convent for the School Sisters of Notre Dame.

Trial by fire

When Fr. Henry Geisenkoetter arrived as pastor in 1944, it became clear that the church would need to be rebuilt. Though construction plans were being drawn up, disaster struck on Feb. 2, 1948, when the church was destroyed by fire. Father Geisenkoetter wrote, “It is quite evident now that the fire started during the second Mass, but no one was aware of it.”

After Mass, as Father baptized Thomas John U’Ren, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Edsel U’Ren, one of the parents or sponsors mentioned hearing “rather loud cracking sounds.” Father Geisenkoetter, feeling uneasy, checked the Sacristy, basement, and furnace, finding nothing amiss. When he returned to the rectory, he discovered that the fire, which had started between the ceiling and the roof of the church, had progressed. He managed to rescue the Blessed Sacrament, many sacred vessels, and vestments, moving them to the school chapel. By special permission, Mass continued in the chapel until the church could be rebuilt.

Robert Zwaschaka, a lifelong member of the parish, noted that his grandfather, George Zwaschka, and his father, Richard, who would have been a teenager at the time, helped to build the present church foundation. All the parishioners pitched in to help the building project in some way. Even the

pastor helped drive 75 round-trips to Mankato, Minn., to deliver sand used for the foundation, masonry, and main floor, while the bricks were sourced from nearby A.C. Ochs Brick and Tile Company of Springfield, Minn. The new parish church was dedicated in November 1949.

Preparation in community

During the Mass of Celebration for the 125th anniversary held on August 10, 2025, Bishop Chad Zielinski of the Diocese of New Ulm emphasized the importance of being prepared, echoing the call of Jesus in the Gospel of the day. Reflecting on the many acts of faith within the parish, he said, “All of the sacramental preparation, Bible study, Mass attendance, 40-hour devotions, Holy Days, Rosaries prayed, and groups for men and women, alongside children learning from the Sisters—this was all intentional formation to ‘be prepared.’”

Gary Richter, a lifelong parishioner, shared his feelings about the deep sense of community that characterizes St. Paul’s parish. Alongside his wife Nellie, who has served in the parish office since 1995, Gary commented, “The parish is like a family; everybody knows everybody. The warm light from the stained glass, the wood beams, and the familiar worship are home.”

Music is another cherished tradition. Judy Augustin, also a lifelong parishioner, helps lead the choir of roughly 15 members who sing at every Sunday Mass. Augustin describes the uplifting spirit of worship, saying, “When you leave this parish from Mass, you feel so much better.”

The legacy of the parish has been

shaped by many contributions. Denice Evers, whose aunt Florence Wannarka started the choir in the 1950s and still sings in the choir, collaborates with Mariann Schotzko to share the parish’s history. Evers fondly recalls, “Art Watkins (d. 2008) made this display cabinet, the carillon display, the missalette holders, the Presider’s chair, and many other wood creations in the parish.” She adds, “We all contribute,” as she points out fellow parishioners and their many acts of service.

A community of faith and hope The faith and resilience of the Church of St. Paul and the community were once again put to the test during the tornado that struck Comfrey on March 29, 1998. Mariann Schotzko recalls, “There was a wake at the nearby funeral home. The grandson of the deceased, my nephew, heard the sirens and ran north toward the church and the doors opened for him to seek shelter,” she shares with tears in her eyes at the miracle of that event. “There were only 45 seconds from the time we heard the siren to when the tornado hit town.”

In the aftermath of the F4 tornado that tore through southwest Minnesota, St. Paul’ church was the only usable building in Comfrey. In a show of extraordinary resiliency, service, and solidarity, people from the community, Comfrey’s four churches, service organizations, and governmental agencies all converged at the parish for ecumenical worship and community support to rebuild and move forward.

In 2000, the parish opened a Courtyard of Thanksgiving, a space “protected from death during a disastrous tornado.” This area is intended for people to gather, pray, and express gratitude for how God and their Guardian Angels were with them during and after the storm. As St. Paul’s parish marks 125 years—through fire, storm, and the steady passage of time—the parish has remained a beacon of hope and unity for Comfrey.

That act of faith planted the seeds for what would become Holy Rosary Catholic Church and School. A century later, the parish community gathered to celebrate the fruits of that vision with a series of events, culminating in a joyful Centennial Mass with Church Consecration on Oct. 5, 2025.

A Centennial Mass and Consecration

The Centennial Mass was presided over by Bishop Chad Zielinski of the Diocese of New Ulm and concelebrated by Father Van de Crommert and retired priest and former Holy Rosary pastor Fr. Peter Nosbush. This celebration of faith, gratitude, and dedication of the church included the anointing of the four corners of the church walls with Sacred Chrism by Bishop Zielinski, along with a sprinkling rite, the Litany of Saints, and the lighting of dedication candles. The sacrifice of the Mass united a century of parish community.

The Centennial Choir, directed by Kathy Jo John and accompanied by Vicki Galli, led hymns of faith that echoed throughout the nave. Alma Erkel, whose late husband Jerry helped select the sanctuary mural of Our Lady with then-pastor Fr. Alphonse Schladweiler—who later became the Diocese of New Ulm’s first bishop—summed up the spirit of the celebration: “It fills my heart to see the church full of people and to hear their voices.”

In his homily, Bishop Zielinski drew inspiration from the prophet Habakkuk, reminding the congregation that “the vision still has its time, presses on to fulfillment, and will not disappoint.” He reflected on the history of the parish, expressed gratitude for the many vocations,

honored past leaders and pastors, and acknowledged those present who were celebrating as a community of faith.

A living legacy of service

After the Mass, parishioners gathered in the former Holy Rosary School gymnasium for a reception as the parish’s social hall is currently undergoing approximately $950,000 in renovations. This remodel, designed to mirror the beauty of the church’s nave, symbolizes the parish’s ongoing investment in its future.

Father Paul reflected on the parish’s journey, noting that “it was a sheer act of faith a century ago, and we continue that legacy with stewardship, time, and talent from our amazing parishioners.” He addressed the challenges posed by changing demographics and societal norms, which contributed to the closure of the school. Nevertheless,

he highlighted that the parish continues to serve 650 families and fosters a unique connection to education and the larger faith community through Loyola Catholic School and neighboring parishes in the Winona-Rochester Diocese, which together serve the entire Mankato area.

Stories of faith and family

The centennial celebration was about more than just buildings and milestones; it was about the people. Parishioners shared stories that showcased Holy Rosary as a spiritual home and an extended family.

In line for brunch stood Dennis Muga, whose family moved from Kenya in 2017. He credits Holy Rosary with helping him grow in faith and community. “It’s like a family,” he said. Muga, a Loyola alumnus, served as thurifer at the Centennial Mass and continues to volunteer at Loyola chapel services. James Younge, a longtime altar server and also a

Loyola alumnus, echoed Muga’s sentiments stating, “Holy Rosary gave me a foundation of faith. It’s a place where I am supported.”

Brian Eggersdorfer, Chair of the Centennial Committee, emphasized the parish’s commitment to education and community. “There’s a strong, consistent core here,” he said. “Holy Rosary has always supported adult education, speakers, and sharing our faith through community.”

The eleven-member committee curated items, stories, and photographs for historical displays and collaborated with the area Knights of Columbus and the parish Council of Catholic Women to plan events for the celebration. Mary Zellmer spearheaded a comprehensive parish timeline interwoven with world and Church events, calling it “a labor of love.” Inspired by a similar timeline display at the

former School Sisters of Notre Dame Motherhouse on Good Council Hill in Mankato, she compiled photos of every Holy Rosary pastor, pope, and U.S. president over the past century. The timeline, which spans nearly the length of the school gymnasium, will be reprinted in full in the upcoming parish directory.

A century of religious vocations Holy Rosary has also been a fertile ground for religious vocations. Sister Julie Brandt, a School Sister of Notre Dame and daughter of longtime parishioners Eugene and Shirley Brandt, recalled how the parish shaped her calling. “We had wonderful teachers and families who supported us,” she said. “Being in North Mankato, we had a lot of religious sisters as teachers.” Sister Julie also noted that “the parish always prayed for

(Continued on page 9.)

St. Paul’s pastor Fr. Craig Timmerman visits with Heather Eischen during the reception that followed Mass. (Photo by Leah Eischen)

Cindy Gawrych, accompanies the choir during the Mass celebrated by Bishop Zielinski.

(Photos by Christy Baker)

The history of the Church of the Holy Rosary and its former school were on display for parishioners. Alphonse J. Schladweiler, served as the second pastor of the church before being appointed the first bishop of the Diocese of New Ulm.

During the 100th Anniversary Celebration Mass at the Church of the Holy Rosary, John and Donna Wolf present the bread and wine, while Curtis Peters carries forward the offering.

During the Centennial Mass, candles were lit followed by Bishop Zielinski annointing each of the four inside corners of the church with Sacred Chrism, symbolizing the church’s commitment to the honor, praise, and worship of God.

Members and friends of the Church of St. Paul in Comfrey came together on Sunday, Aug. 10, 2025, to commemorate the remarkable milestone of its 125th anniversary. Following a Mass celebrated by Bishop Chad Zielinski, the faithful gathered in the Courtyard of Thanksgiving with the bishop for a cherished group photo that reflects the rich history and vibrant faith community that St. Paul’s church has fostered over the years.

(Photo by Michelle Knudson)

2025 Diocesan Ministries

“For nearly two decades, the Diocesan Ministries Appeal (DMA) has served as a beacon of hope, making a profound impact on the lives of many within our parishes and beyond. As your shepherd, I cannot thank you enough for your generosity and continued prayers. Your financial support of the DMA, whether large or small, is crucial. Therefore, I extend a warm and personal invitation for you to participate in this year’s appeal. Please consider joining me and our parish communities in Bringing Hope to Homes.”

The nine ministries supported by the 2025 DMA continue to impact the lives of many across the diocese by helping to nurture youth and adults in their faith, assist those in need of spiritual, mental, or physical assistance, and provide for the formation of seminarians and deacons.

Catholic Charities offers counseling services to individuals, couples and families, regardless of financial status. They also assist with emergency response services in the wake of tragedy or natural disaster.

Catholic Schools provide guidance and development to the staff of 13 schools, fostering spiritual and academic growth for students.

Youth Ministry engages and supports youth and young adults through impactful programs and training, inspiring hope for a brighter future.

Diaconate supports the formation of permanent deacons for ministry across parishes in the diocese.

Evangelization assists the bishop in addressing all aspects of evangelization and catechesis for adults, youth, and children.

Family Life promotes marriage and family life according to the teachings of the Catholic Church by diocesan-wide education on natural family planning (NFP), the theology of the body, chastity education, and ethics and morality.

Vocations encourages individuals in their spiritual discernment and supports the formation of future priests.

Social Concerns promotes corporal and spiritual works of mercy, faithful citizenship and social action, sustainable agriculture, and environmental stewardship in the Diocese of New Ulm.

Hispanic Ministry supports parishes by supporting services for Hispanic Catholics, including migrant ministry, resident ministry, leadership training, and assistance for ministers.

NOTE: This year, at the request of the diocesan Priests’ Council, 100% of each dollar donated to the DMA will exclusively support the DMA ministries further benefiting the entire diocese and the people these vital ministries serve.

- Most Reverend Chad W. Zielinski Bishop of New Ulm Braulicks of Sleepy Eye serving as DMA chaircouple

“The Church has supported us in so many different ways and we see the DMA as an opportunity to give back to the Church. That investment lasts forever and blesses other people as well as us.”

2025 DMA Chair Couple Church of St. Mary, Sleepy Eye

Nominations sought for New Ulm Diocesan Woman of the Year Award

by Jackie Finstad

Women in the Diocese of New Ulm embody the mission of Christ through their families, parishes, and involvement in the Council of Catholic Women (CCW).

Each year, the Council awards the “Woman of the Year” to recognize a remarkable woman and to express appreciation for her service to God and others.

Nominations for the 2026 Woman of the Year award are now open! The award will be presented at the 2026 NUDCCW Convention to be held on Saturday, April 25, at the Church of St. Michael in Morgan. A group of three individuals

may submit a nomination, and multiple names can be put forward. If a nominee has not previously received the award, their name may be resubmitted.

Please include a summary

highlighting the nominee’s merits, particularly focusing on their service to God and others. This information will be kept confidential until the award is presented, so please gather your data discreetly without discussing it with the nominee. Note that current New Ulm Diocesan Council of Catholic Women voting board members are not eligible.

Nomination forms can be found at nudccw.org/woman-of-theyear. For further inquiries, contact Jackie Finstad, NUDCCW Immediate Past President, at jackief@newulmtel. net. Nominations are due by Jan. 31, 2026, to be considered.

Holy Rosary parish One hundred years of faith and community

(Continued from page 7.)

vocations.” She currently serves as President of New Ulm Area Catholic Schools.

Msgr. Douglas Grams, former vicar general and diocesan administrator, is another vocation that grew from Holy Rosary. His great-grandparents were charter members of the parish, and he served at the altar during its 50th anniversary, as a young priest during the 75th anniversary, and is now returning to celebrate the 100th anniversary. “The priests were always joyful,” he said. “That genuine joy inspired me.”

Lorraine Klaseus has been a pillar of the parish since 1960, and she shared her family’s long-standing involvement. Her late husband, John, was the first Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion, served as a longtime usher, and helped establish Holy Rosary’s kindergarten program. Klaseus served as the parish secretary for 35 years, and her daughter, Cathy, currently works as the parish office administrator.

Klaseus continues her ministry

Fr. Paul van de Crommert was assigned to the Church of the Holy Rosary in 2014. He is the ninth pastor to serve the parish. He and parishioner Alma Erkel, whose late husband Jerry helped pick out the present-day mural, stand in front of a timeline of historic events that was on display during the August 10 Centennial Mass celebration. (Photo by Deacon Ryan Pope)

to the sick and homebound. “It’s been a blessing,” she said. “Holy Rosary is our spiritual home.”

Looking ahead with gratitude The Church of the Holy Rosary concluded its Centennial Celebration on November 16 with its annual fall festival, but the parish continues to reflect in thanksgiving and looks ahead with gratitude and hope.

From its humble beginnings as a weed-filled field to becoming a thriving parish, Holy Rosary’s story is one of faith and community.

Hope in Homes

Real Life Stories of Families Striving for Holiness

by Leonard Gutierrez

If you ask any married couple about the first few years of marriage, you will likely hear some unique stories. Life changes in an instant, and couples become acutely aware of the profound commitment they made to each other, recognizing many areas for growth along the way. These early years can be filled with laughter, tears, and a lot of time spent “figuring it out.”

One young couple in the Diocese of New Ulm embodies this journey as they embrace family life and the mission to evangelize: Jake and Elli Burmis from Silver Lake.

The Burmises married in 2023 and immediately bought a fixer-upper home that was not yet livable. Jake spent most of the winter with his father-in-law building what would not just become their house, but their home, where faith could permeate in their family.

They completed renovations and moved into their home just three weeks before welcoming a baby boy into their family by the end of their first year of marriage. According to Elli, their son has brought blessings and a bit of chaos, but continuous memories filled with laughter and joy.

Jake and Elli’s story is inspiring for many reasons—deepening faith through Jake’s work as a youth minister and Elli’s journey to becoming Catholic.

When the couple began dating in 2020, although not Catholic, Elli attended daily Mass with Jake, helped with youth ministry events, and attended parish gatherings. It was in the heart of parish life and living mission where Elli became captivated with the Catholic faith.

The relationships the couple built and the transformations they witnessed helped Elli see something real that she had not observed before. “As we continued to grow in our relationship with Christ together, Catholicism grew to be more than

just a religion to me, but rather our whole way of life as a couple,” she explained. Two years later, in April 2022, she officially became a member of the Catholic Church.

Since then, Jake and Elli have embraced the mission of ministering to the youth in their parishes within their area faith community. They have kept in touch with many of those they mentored and now witness the fruits of their work, as many of these young people remain passionate about their faith.

Jake emphasized that their own discovery or rediscovery of their faith, and the challenge to help people know their own worth and identity in Christ, have motivated he and Elli to give back.

The Burmis family continues to shine as a beacon of hope in their community and throughout the diocese. They are a great witness of striving for growth, not perfection, and serve as a beautiful example of being generous in their time and love for Christ.

director of the Office of Evangelization for the Diocese of New Ulm, lgutierrez@dnu.org; (507) 233-5361.

Leonard Gutierrez is the

Jake and Elli Burmis

by Fr. Mark Steffl, STL, JCL

TheCode of Canon Law defines the Liturgy of the Hours, and identifies those who have an obligation to participate in it, in three short canons:

Can. 1173 Fulfilling the priestly function of Christ, the Church celebrates the liturgy of the hours. In the liturgy of the hours, the Church, hearing God speaking to his people and recalling the mystery of salvation, praises him without ceasing by song and prayer and intercedes for the salvation of the whole world.

Can. 1174 §1. Clerics are obliged to carry out the liturgy of the hours according to the norm of can. 276, §2, n. 3; members of institutes of

Ask a Canon Lawyer

This month’s question: What is the Liturgy of the Hours?

consecrated life and societies of apostolic life, however, are bound according to the norm of their constitutions. §2. Other members of the Christian faithful, according to circumstances, are also earnestly invited to participate in the liturgy of the hours as an action of the Church.

Can. 1175 In carrying out the liturgy of the hours, the true time for each hour is to be observed insofar as possible.

Concretely speaking, the Liturgy of the Hours (also sometimes referred to as the “Divine Office” or “breviary”) is a set of prayers that are offered each day, organized by liturgical seasons and feast days.

Centered around the Book of Psalms, the ancient “song book” of the Jewish people, the Liturgy of the Hours is thus built on the same prayers that the Lord Jesus would have himself offered, providing a further way to unite

ourselves with the Lord when we pray them.

The Church has an officially published a four-volume book of prayers that comprises the “Liturgy of the Hours” that each cleric promises at his ordination to pray for the intention of the Church. In it, the prayers that are to be offered are broken up into five parts:

• The Office of Readings has a hymn, 3 psalms, and two longer readings, one from Scripture and one an official Church teaching document or reflection by a saint,

• Morning Prayer (also called sometimes by its Latin name, Lauds) that has a hymn, three psalms, a short reading from sacred Scripture and responsory prayer, the Canticle of Zechariah (Luke 1:68-79), the Our Father, and a set of petitions

• Midday Prayer which is a hymn, a set of 3 psalms, and a short passage from Sacred

Scripture and a responsory prayer,

• Evening Prayer (or Vespers) which mirrors Morning Prayer with a hymn, 3 psalms, a short reading from Sacred Scripture and responsory prayer, the Canticle of Mary (Luke 1:46-55), the Our Father, and a set of petitions,

• Night Prayer (or Compline) which includes a short examination of conscience, a hymn, a psalm, a short passage from sacred Scripture, the Canticle of (Luke 2:29-32), and conclude with a hymn to Our Lady such as the Hail Holy Queen as the last prayer offered before retiring for the night.

Called “liturgy,” the Liturgy of the Hours is considered the “public” form of prayer, similar to the way the Mass is the public worship of the Church. Even though many priests might pray the Liturgy of the Hours on their own and alone, they are praying the same set of prayers that so many are praying at the same time, joining their prayer together.

The “Liturgy of the Hours” has the word “hours” in it as a reminder,

as is noted in the above canon 1175, to “sanctify” or make holy different parts of the day with the offering of prayer.

Consecrated religious also pray either the same version of the Liturgy of the Hours or one similar to it within their communities, and it can occasionally be found to be prayed publicly in churches and chapels for the public to join.

Although those who are not clergy or consecrated religious are not vowed to pray the Liturgy of the Hours, there are many who pray part or all of the Liturgy of the Hours on their own or within their families. Today there are cell phone or tablet “apps” that make it easy to pray for those who are new to it.

Next Issue: What is an imprimatur and nihil obstat that are sometimes written on prayers and in books?

Editor’s note: 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.

Building families: A Catholic case for the Minnesota Starter Homes Act

by the Minnesota Catholic Conference

Housing is more than bricks and mortar. It is where families are formed and safeguarded, ensuring they have a place to grow. However, today’s soaring housing prices are discouraging young adults from getting married, starting families, or having more children.

The Minnesota Starter Homes Act (S.F. 2229/H.F. 1987) is a timely response to this challenge.

While there are several reasons why homes are expensive in Minnesota, including construction code mandates, the Minnesota Starter Homes Act is a starting point for the conversation. Introduced in spring 2025, this bipartisan legislation helps to make homeownership more feasible for Minnesota families, especially first-time buyers.

The current reality: families priced out of homes

According to the National Association of Realtors, the average age of first-time homebuyers has risen from 28 in 1991 to 38 today. This increase over the past three decades is largely due to the rising cost of housing, which leaves less room in a family’s budget for groceries, healthcare, childcare, and other daily expenses. If you can’t afford a home, it’s harder to build wealth and provide children with a stable life.

The Catholic Church recognizes the family as the “domestic church.” A society, in essence, is a family of families. Through various ministries, such as Catholic Charities and the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, the Church has long provided

housing services to the poor and vulnerable. However, today’s housing affordability crisis in Minnesota and throughout the United States now reaches into the middle class, and families are being priced out of homeownership. As a result, new public policy initiatives, such as the Minnesota Starter Homes Act, can be part of the solution.

Why the Minnesota Starter Homes Act Matters

The Minnesota Starter Homes Act aims to address the state’s housing crisis by increasing the supply of affordable homes for families, including smaller single-family houses, duplexes, accessory dwelling units, and townhouses. At the same time, it proposes loosening restrictive zoning laws, reducing lot size requirements, streamlining the approval process, and reconsidering other mandates, such as HOA fees. In addition, the act has the potential to create more opportunities for multigenerational living by allowing the care of loved ones in accessory dwelling units.

Hopefully, by relaxing zoning

restrictions in residential areas, the supply of homes will increase, while prices decrease.

Although the Minnesota Starter Homes Act gained traction in the House, it did not pass the Senate State and Local Government Committee. While its future is uncertain, negotiations among the House, Senate and interested stakeholders are ongoing. Meanwhile, Catholics can advocate for changes needed to improve the housing affordability crisis.

A Call to action

Subsidiarity, a core Catholic principle, insists that decisions should usually be made at the most local level, when possible, because those people are typically best situated to address the problem. Unfortunately, too many cities want to restrict the types of housing that can be built in their residential communities. So it is sometimes necessary for legislation such as the Starter Homes Act to “preempt” these local zoning prohibitions.

As faithful citizens, Catholics

are called to engage in politics with a spirit of cooperation and dialogue—helping to build common ground while advocating for policies that uphold dignity and promote the common good, including those that strengthen family life.

For more information and to take action: read the Minnesota Catholic Conference’s letter of support for the Minnesota Starter Homes Act: www.mncatholic.org/ letter_of_support_for_minnesota_ starter_home_act.

Reach out to your lawmakers and encourage them to support this legislation and share this information with your pastor and fellow parishioners, inviting them into the conversation

If we want to renew family life in Minnesota, we must ensure families have a place to grow. The Minnesota Starter Homes Act offers a hopeful path forward. Let’s work together to rebuild the domestic Church—one home at a time.

The public policy voice of the Catholic Church in Minnesota

Mark your calendar! Diocesan-sponsored upcoming events

MARRIAGE ENRICHMENT RETREAT, November 21 to November 23 at Schoenstatt on the Lake, Sleepy Eye. Whether a newlywed or celebrating decades together, this retreat offers a unique opportunity for spiritual growth and reconnection. To learn more or to register visit www.dnu.org/marriage-enrichment-retreat.

PARISH MUSICIANS’ RETREAT, November 22 at the Church of St. Aloysius in Olivia. This retreat is a great opportunity for learning and growth in your musical ministry. To learn more or to register visit www.dnu.org.

COR NIGHT for youth grades 6 to 12 to be held December 7 at the Church of St. Aloysius in Olivia. Keynote: Brendan McCauley speaking on Chastity 101. Register at www.dnu.org/youth.

ADVENT LESSONS AND CAROLS, December 14 at the Church of the Holy Redeemer, Marshall. Featuring the Our Lady of the Prairie Diocesan Choir. Come prepare your heart for the coming Christ with this beautiful time of prayer, Scripture, and carols. A light reception to follow. Hosted by the diocesan Office of Worship, www. dnu/worship.

JUBILEE YEAR CLOSING MASS, December 28, 2025 (Feast of the Holy Family), 10 a.m. at the Cathedral of the Holy Trinity in New Ulm. Join Bishop Chad Zielinski as we conclude the Jubilee Year of Hope.

SEEK26 with Our Lady of the Prairie. The diocesan Office of Evangelization invites young adults ages 18-30 to experience SEEK26 in Denver, CO, from Jan. 1-5, 2026. The group will be joined by Damien Walker, the artist behind the newly commissioned painting of Our Lady of the Prairie. To learn more or to register, visit www.dnu.org/evangelization.

Have you been married 65 years or more?

The Prairie Catholic will be honoring couples who will celebrate a 65th or beyond wedding anniversary in the year 2026. Recognized couples must be a member of a parish in the diocese. Complete this form and return it, along with a current photograph (no newspaper clippings, please), by Dec. 12, 2025, to The Prairie Catholic, 1421 6th Street North, New Ulm, MN 56073, or e-mail submission to cbaker@dnu.org. Announcements will be featured in the January/ February 2026 edition.

Groom’s Name: __________________________________________________

Bride’s MAIDEN Name: __________________________________________

Parish and City Where You Were Married: _____________________________

Date Married: ________________________________________________

Number of Years Married As of Dec. 31, 2026: _________________________

Current Parish: _______________________________________________

City: __________________________________________________________

Phone Number or E-mail: _______________________________________

around the diocese

Couple seeks Blessed Mother’s guidance and strength for their marriage and family life

by Elli Burmis Prairie Catholic correspondent

“We always wanted our family to be a holy family,” Dan and Linda Simones reflect on raising their twelve children in the Catholic faith, adding, “We would bless our kids with holy water every morning, pray to teach them good virtues, and teach them to live by example.”

After almost 55 years of marriage, the Simones express immense gratitude for God’s beautiful lifegiving plan for their marriage and family. Growing up as neighbors in Lakeville, Minn., Dan and Linda both remember being blessed with amazing, faithful parents who encouraged and led them in their faith. Both families would regularly attend Mass and pray together at home. Linda specifically credits her strong faith to her treasured experiences with the religious sisters at her beloved Catholic school, detailing the lifechanging impact of their example and faithfilled teachings.

During her teenage years, Linda recalls often praying and asking God for a good, holy man to be her husband. She even expressed a desire to marry one of the four Simone brothers. The following year, her prayers were answered through a chance encounter. While visiting her family, Linda found herself stranded as she ran out of gas in front of Dan’s house. Dan noticed her predicament and kindly came to her aid. After he filled her gas tank with fuel, Linda asked how she could repay him. Dan had a simple suggestion: “Maybe you could let me drive your car sometime?” he responded. “And I did!” Linda chuckles.

In the early years of their marriage, Dan and Linda built their foundation on trusting the Lord and accepting whatever he had planned. They prayed together every day. With the desire for a large family, they prayed: “Whatever you want, Lord. We will have as many children as you gift us.” God quickly answered their prayers and soon, the Simones started to be blessed with many beautiful children.

To help teach and instill faith in their children, the Simones family together embraced and prioritized

daily Catholic practices. Every day, they prayed the Rosary, read stories of heroic saints and role models, read the Bible, and shared their prayers together. Before homeschool in the morning they would attend Mass.

Moreover, a significant part of their daily routine centered around their family’s consecration to the Blessed Mother as well as their introduction to the Schoenstatt Movement, a Catholic Marian movement. Recognizing the peaceful nature of the Schoenstatt religious sisters of Sleepy Eye, Dan and Linda wanted their family to grow into that same sense of understanding and faith. Soon, they created a home shrine of the Blessed Mother and began sending their children to the Schoenstatt camps, which became a joyful highlight of their summers.

Through their involvement in the Schoenstatt Movement, the Simones started “trusting in the Blessed Virgin Mary more than ever before,” and the Marian Mission became a strong pillar of their marriage and family life.

Pro-life advocates

Throughout their marriage, the Simones have sensed a divine calling for their family to participate in the pro-life movement. Linda remembers meditating and praying alongside their children to determine how they could best contribute to this

significant cause. She expressed, “God listens to the prayers of young children, so we taught our kids to pray for the end of abortion.”

The family has participated in the pro-life rally held at the Minnesota State Capitol, and they have visited the Cathedral in Saint Paul for prayer walks. As a couple, they have dedicated weekends to praying outside abortion clinics. Dan explains, “Whatever we had time for, we did.” The couple continues to pray for the unborn and actively seek ways to support the pro-life movement.

The Simones are grateful and proud to share that the faith, values, and virtues they worked hard to instill in their 12 children have remained with them into adulthood. All of them have remained strong, practicing Catholics, a blessing that Linda attributes to “Adoration, praying together, reading the Bible every day, and persevering in dry times.” She adds, “We did the best we could.”

Today, the Simones’ boundless love continues to grow, and they have now welcomed 66 grandchildren! Their relationship with Jesus continues to be the foundation of their marriage and family life, and their mission has always remained the same: “To get each other and our kids to Heaven, to become saints.”

Dan and Linda Simones, members of the Church of St. Mary in Sleepy Eye, stand beside their home shrine of the Blessed Mother. (Photo by Christy Baker)

BLOOMINGTON – Largest collection of papal artifacts outside of Rome is coming to Mall of America in Bloomington, Minn. To celebrate the 175th anniversary of the Catholic Church in Minnesota, the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis is hosting “Vatican Unveiled,” an exhibit featuring the most extensive collection of papal artifacts outside of Rome. Father Richard Kunst, who possesses extensive knowledge

of the items and a passion for sharing their stories, will serve as the curator of the exhibit.

This unique historical collection will be on display daily at the Mall of America from January 10 to February 1, 2026. Highlights of the exhibit include a document containing the second-oldest papal signature outside of the Vatican and a Swiss Guard uniform from the time of Pope Pius X—so rare that the Swiss

Guard has requested to borrow it for their own exhibit. Spanning 19,000 square feet, the exhibit is open and welcoming to all, offering visitors intriguing historical perspectives, artistic items showcasing old-world craftsmanship, and papal artifacts that reveal the humanity behind these leaders. For more details about the exhibit, visit the Archdiocese’s Vatican Unveiled website, www.archspm.org/ vaticanunveiled/.

VATICAN CITY – Have you heard the recent claims about Pope Leo XIV discussing President Donald Trump’s views on the Rapture or the acceptability of cremation? These claims are featured in many videos circulating on social media, but they are all fake deepfakes. The Vatican’s Dicastery for Communication is working to combat their spread.

Since the start of the pontiff’s term, the communications team has reported hundreds of YouTube accounts posting these AIgenerated videos. Unfortunately, new accounts and videos continue to emerge as quickly as others are removed.

“We are seeing a rapid increase in YouTube channels with fake videos that make the pope say things he never said,” stated the Dicastery. A search for “Pope Leo” on YouTube reveals numerous fake videos, ranging from plausible statements to highly unlikely announcements like resignations.

As technology makes deepfakes more convincing, it becomes

easier for viewers to mistake fiction for fact. The Vatican has warned about this issue in its newsletter and urged readers to report suspicious content. They also advise relying on official Vatican sources for accurate information: “If it isn’t there, it is most likely a fake.”

(Open to grades 6 - 12)

Sunday, December 7 4:00 to 8:00 p.m.

Church of St. Aloysius, Olivia