Minnesota’s Most Rural Diocese Diocese of New Ulm Vol. 39 No. 1 September 2024
Dodge Ball anyone?
Catholic summer camps help youth connect with Jesus
SLEEPY EYE, Minn. – As another summer comes to a close, so too do the summer activities and camps offered through the Diocese of New Ulm Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry. At this year’s Camp Greatness for high school boys, campers played a competive game of Dodge Ball, or as campers call it, “Man Ball,” a camp favorite. The camp, filled to capacity, was held July 30-August 2 at Schoenstatt on the Lake in Sleepy Eye. The enthusiasm for the camp was so great there was a waiting list.
(Turn to page 6 to read more about diocesan summer youth happenings.)
(Photo by Allison Steincamp)
Minnesota’s Most Rural Diocese Diocese of New Ulm
National
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SPRINGFIELD, Minn. - Parishioners present and past, as well as friends of the Church of St. Raphael, offer the sign of peace during the parish’s 150th anniversary Mass on Saturday, June 22, 2024.
(Turn to page 14 for more on the celebration.)
Eucharistic Congress attracts more than 50,000 faithful
How do we now live out this extraordinary occasion every day of our lives?
by Fr. Roger Landry National Eucharistic Preacher
The National Eucharistic Pilgrimage and the National Eucharistic Congress held July 17–21, 2024, at Lucas Oil Stadium and the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, Ind., were the two most spectacular components of the ongoing three-year-plus National Eucharistic Revival, meant to catalyze greater Eucharistic knowledge, faith, gratitude, amazement, love and life among Catholics in the United States.
The 65-day Eucharistic Pilgrimage, a four-part Eucharistic procession from the Atlantic, Pacific, north and south making a cross over the country, converging in Indianapolis, was a first in any country in the history of the Church.
It cumulatively drew hundreds of thousands to meet Jesus in the
September 2024 Page 2
in the Public Square” by Bishop Zielinski Page 5 New Catholic school leadership Page 15 Sisters of Mary Morning Star mark ten years in diocese
us online! www.dnu.org
Eucharist in churches, on streets, boats, bridges and highways, in prisons, schools and nursing homes, and put into relief the dynamic, pilgrim nature of the Church, walking with and following Jesus each day as the Eucharistic Good Shepherd seeks to lead his flock to the eternal sheepfold.
The five-day Eucharistic Congress was the first such national Eucharistic celebration in 83 years. It brought together more than 50,000 Catholics to rejoice in the ongoing incarnate self-gift of Jesus Christ in sacramental form, to adore him, receive him, exalt him, get to know and appreciate him better, and learn more effectively how to share him with others.
Both the pilgrimage and the congress were noteworthy and newsworthy occasions, truly spectacular manifestations of the Church’s Eucharistic faith. But these extraordinary forms are meant to point us all to their ordinary expressions.
The word “congress” comes from a Latin word for “walking together” and indicates the way Christians each Sunday, indeed every day, come together to worship the Lord. The word for “church” in Greek –ekklesia – refers to how believers have been called together out of their surrounding environments in order to worship as one.
The Church, in effect, is a congress, and we show that congressional reality best when we convene around the altar to meet, listen to, lovingly adore, humbly receive and commit to announce the Eucharistic Lord Jesus.
(Photo submitted)
That daily Eucharistic congress is meant to flow from and lead to the perpetual pilgrimage of the Church through time as Catholics structure their daily life in communion with the Lord, who accompanies and guides them. In the Holy Eucharist, the same Jesus – who was within Mary’s womb, whom St. Joseph held in his strong arms, who traveled with the Holy Family on pilgrimage to Jerusalem, who crisscrossed the ancient Holy Land with the disciples and apostles and who has gone ahead of us to the Father’s house – journeys with us.
He just looks different, in his doubly miraculous sacramental appearance in which he changes the substance of the bread and wine totally into himself; and, lest we be disgusted by feeding on obviously human flesh and blood, conceals himself under the appearances of human food, even
though after the consecration no bread or wine remains.
Christian life is, therefore, meant to be a continuous upward spiral between the Eucharistic congress that takes place at the altar and the Eucharistic pilgrimage we make uniting all aspects of our daily existence to God-with-usstill-with-us. That Eucharistic awareness and vitality is what the National Eucharistic Revival is seeking to revivify within believers as it equips and emboldens them to help others to learn and live.
After the Eucharistic Congress, the Revival has entered a “missionary phase” in which each Catholic in the country is being asked to “walk with one” person who is presently not journeying with the Eucharistic Lord and his Church to Mass and in daily life.
Surveys show that on any given
Sunday, five of six Catholics in the United States are prioritizing something other than the Eucharistic Lord on the Lord’s Day.
These fallen-away Catholics are the lost sheep of our families and the family of the Church, and each of us is being asked by the Church not merely to invite them back, but like Christ did on the road to Emmaus – to enter into conversation with them, to try to warm their hearts with the light of Revelation, and to try to be Christ’s instruments to help them invite him to stay with them and to recognize him, as the two disciples did after the Resurrection – in the “breaking of the bread.”
This missionary dimension of the Eucharistic Revival was what was emphasized at the closing Mass of the congress by Pope Francis’ delegate, Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, the head of the Vatican’s Dicastery for Evangelization. The native Filipino is recognized as one of the greatest preachers in the English-speaking world, and he did not disappoint in Indianapolis.
In his homily, he focused on “Eucharistic conversion” as “missionary conversion.” Eucharistic conversion, to turn back fully to Jesus in the Eucharist, was the message, he said, Pope Francis asked him to share with everyone. The theme of the National Eucharistic Congress, Cardinal Tagle said, was “my flesh for the life of the world” (John 6:51) and illustrates, he underlined, that Jesus was sent by God the
(Continued on page 9.)
Bishop Chad Zielinski of New Ulm joined bishops from around the country as they celebrated Mass on July 18, 2024, for thousands of pilgrims gathered at Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis.
by Bishop Chad W. Zielinski
Hear God, hand him your heart, and have hope!
On Sept 27, 2022, I was installed as the fifth bishop of the Diocese of New Ulm. In my homily, I expressed enthusiasm that our diocese had joined the five other Minnesota (arch)dioceses as well as those nationwide in a threeyear Eucharistic Revival, which began on Corpus Christi Sunday, June 16, 2022. I invited everyone to focus on three movements of the heart and soul throughout this revival process: Hear God, Hand Him Your Heart, and Have Hope!
These movements are not just actions, but they represent a profound spiritual journey. As we surrender our entire person to God and encounter Jesus in the Holy Eucharist, I truly believe our diocese, our state, nation, and world will be transformed. This encounter sets a fire that sends us forth as ambassadors of hope to proclaim the Good News of the Gospel. I witnessed this action in the lives of the good people of God throughout the diocese, and it fills me with hope and inspiration for the future.
Through the grace of the Holy Spirit, you have raised up evangelization teams in your parishes, eager to go forth, two by two, as Jesus sent his disciples. Go forth as fearless witnesses of the Risen Christ.
Hear God!
Over these past two years, I have witnessed many of you running to the well to receive the healing waters that flow through the
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.
The Bishop’s Column: That they may have life
sacramental life of the Church. This has happened during the numerous diocesan-sponsored Hope and Healing services offered throughout the diocese. The Bishop Lucker lecture keynote speakers and Eucharistic Revival missionary preachers have opened up the Word of God for our Catholic school teachers, catechists, and lay people hungering to learn more and draw closer to Christ.
This spoken flame of faith fueled fervor within a large group from our diocese as they joined approximately 5,000 brothers and sisters from dioceses throughout Minnesota and beyond during the Star of the North Eucharistic Congress held May 17-19. During this gathering, the good people of God encountered the Risen Lord in the Holy Eucharist first in Bemidji, Minn., then on to the Headwaters of the Mississippi River in Itasca State Park, and ending with an encounter with the Holy Eucharist at the Church of St. Anthony in Watkins for an Ignite Holy Hour. I was deeply moved to see so many fill a church to worship and be present to our Lord in Eucharistic Adoration.
Handing Him our Heart. This river of grace and hunger to encounter the Bread of Life motivated over 70 pilgrims from the Diocese of New Ulm to join upward of 55,000 Christian faithful at the National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis on July 18-21. As I witnessed this magnificent crowd, united in one heart and mind by the power of the Holy Spirit, there was a
palpable peace, grace, and bond of unity that was unexplainable. What a radiant joy to see a Eucharistic procession of such high magnitude, singing and chanting their love for the Lord in multiple languages. It truly was a Pentecost event that pierced and healed thousands of hearts, minds, and souls, fostering a profound sense of unity and peace among all present.
When I returned from Indianapolis, one of my brother priests asked me what remains stamped in my heart and mind from attending the Eucharistic Congress. As a priest, one of the most powerful ways I see to hand God your heart is in the confessional. During the Eucharistic Congress, I had the opportunity to hear confessions for two hours. It was a beautiful experience to witness so many
While attending the National Eucharistic Congress held July 18-21, Bishop Zielinski met up with Diocese of New Ulm seminarian Noah U’Ren from Redwood Falls who was a pilgrim on the St. Juan Diego Route that walked from Texas to the Congress in Indianapolis.
(Photo submitted.)
people falling on their knees, making their confessions, and creating that grace-filled space in their hearts to be filled with the Eucharist. This is the mystical body of Christ being purified again and again and again.
Having Hope. So, who is this person that they have come to see? This person is a very Real Person who is madly in love with us. He wants to draw close to us; he wants us to consume him in Word and Flesh as he offers himself as the Bread of Life so we may never hunger again. This is a deeply personal and intimate act of love, a profound reminder of how cherished and loved each of us is in the eyes of the Lord.
Faith, hope and love are theological virtues that are infused into the core of our very being at
baptism. Jesus wants us to be a people of hope; hope that places all of our trust in him, and him alone. Hope that does not believe that a particular government system or some elected official is going to save us. We have a hope that believes that no matter how crazy things become Jesus wins in the end. A hope that gives us encouragement and enthusiasm to wake up in the morning and thank God for the day, even though we may struggle with darkness at times in our lives. We are called to be fearless witnesses of the Hope of the Risen Christ.
Eucharistic Revival Year 3, “Going Out on Mission”
During this last year of Eucharistic Revival (July 21, 2024 – Pentecost 2025), we are being sent on mission and are encouraged to “walk with one.” As members of this diocese, you are not just passive participants, but active contributors to this mission. We are reminded that the Church is “in procession” and the procession is moving forward each day towards the Kingdom of Heaven. As an ambassador of Hope, you are asked to go out and walk with others; be a companion who shares the common friendship of Christ.
It’s not about buildings and structures here on earth but rather being part of a “Church in procession.” The Kingdom of Heaven - that is our final goal.
The bishop’s monthly calendar can be found at www.dnu.org.
Editorial: Charity in the Public Square by Bishop Chad Zielinski
In 1993, St. John Paul II penned a lengthy document titled Splendor of the Truth. I truly believe the Holy Spirit guided him in a time when our society was dominated by relativism (that what is ‘true’ is defined by a person, what is wrong for you is right for me) which influenced many to adopt this approach in moral decisionmaking. But relativism is a lie as the great saint reminded us, and truth is revealed by God and given to humanity through the guidance of the Church to ultimately lead us to eternal salvation. This truth is not just for us to accept but for us to actively seek and uphold. We are wired to hear the truth, ponder the truth, and choose the truth because our conscience, when properly formed, will affirm that our decision is based upon this divinely revealed truth. Regrettably, our society has
championed the individual as the sole arbiter of truth. This prevalent ideology, under the guise of acceptance and tolerance, advocates for the adoption of another’s truth, even if it contradicts the truth revealed by God. This societal norm has led to a culture of demonizing those who hold differing views and the practice of ‘canceling out’ their perspectives.
This individual-centric view currently dominates today’s political discourse, leading to an emotionally charged and deeply divided society. It is crucial for each of us to resist being drawn into this polarization, especially as the political climate intensifies.
In conversations with many bishops, clergy, and good people of God, there is something that stirs in our conscience that says,
“This is out of balance” and “This is not what Jesus calls us to do in the Gospel.” When Christians are dominated by division, anger, and distrust of one another, the devil wins the day. When this attitude consumes one’s heart and mind, I, as a child of God, will never see another as made in the image and likeness of God.
It is vital that we embrace the divinely revealed truth, which we consume in the Holy Eucharist to unite us more perfectly as His Mystical Body. Through serious prayer and discernment, let this truth penetrate your heart and mind, forming your conscience to choose with clarity and charity. I pray that we all adopt an attitude of civility that allows the fruits of the Holy Spirit to flourish amidst the tensions of division. We all need deep healing, which can only come from Jesus, the divine
physician, through the power of the Holy Spirit.
As we approach the upcoming election cycle, I urge you to review a few resources (available in English and Spanish) from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops at www. USCCB.org. They are “Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship” and “Civilize It: A Better Kind of Politics Promotion Packet.”
I am confident that God’s truth will bring a healing of heart and mind, uniting us more intimately in His Mystical Body. Let us pray for grace, listen to another with the ears of Christ, see with his eyes, and respond with the truth in compassion and love. Each of us has a crucial role to play in promoting this unity.
Departures from diocesan staff announced
NEW ULM – Two members of Bishop Chad Zielinski’s curia have announced their plans to move on to their next phase of ministry.
n Kevin Losleben, director of Youth and Young Adult Ministry since 2015, will leave his position, effective Oct. 15, 2024. Throughout the years, Losleben has led or coordinated the many rapidly growing youth programs, including COR, the annual Broom Tree Retreat, and Camp Greatness for boys and Camp Beloved for girls. These programs, which have grown exponentially since they began in 2015, are a testament to the dedication and hard work of both Losleben and the youth involved.
In 2017, Losleben initiated the Totus Tuus program in the diocese. Totus Tuus, Latin for “Totally Yours,” is a traveling summer catechetical program conducted by young adults for youth in parishes in the diocese. Under Losleben’s leadership, the program has grown from one team to three teams serving 18 parishes. In 2022, Losleben launched COR Night, an outgrowth of COR, to reach all middle and high school youth. COR has taught countless
youth to develop a daily prayer life and has more than doubled in size in recent years.
“As bishop of this diocese, I witnessed firsthand the fruits of Kevin’s leadership training,” said Bishop Zielinski. “Kevin stepped aside to let the young people embrace their call to lead others to Christ. I commend him for raising up leaders among our faithfilled youth and young adults. His undying love for Christ, his Church, and his own family has been an incredible example as he responded to his call to be a fearless witness of the Gospel.”
The diocese extends its best wishes to Kevin as he begins his new endeavors, one of which is an apostolate called Rural Catholic Youth Ministry, which seeks to assist rural parishes in starting youth ministry programs through coaching, courses, and community.
n After serving the Diocese of New Ulm as administrative support for 16 years, Paulette Kral will be pursuing another ministry, effective Aug. 16, 2024.
In 2008, Kral was part of the team that helped integrate Catholic
Charities ministry in the Diocese of New Ulm. For over a decade and a half, she has been the welcoming voice behind the New Ulm-based office, responding to calls from those in need throughout the 15 counties of the diocese and beyond.
Throughout the years, Kral has worked under three ordinaries: Bishop John C. Nienstedt, Bishop John M. LeVoir, and the current shepherd, Bishop Chad W. Zielinski. In addition to Catholic Charities, she also served the offices of Social Concerns, Family Life, and the permanent diaconate program.
“Paulette has been the heart and soul of the Catholic Charities office of the Diocese of New Ulm,” said Tami Behnke, director of Catholic Charities and Social Concerns.
Behnke, who has worked with Kral in some capacity throughout the past 16 years, expressed gratitude for Kral’s unwavering dedication. “Her expertise and determination ensured that our counselors could continue their vital work, bringing hope and healing to our community. We are profoundly grateful for her service, which has truly been a blessing to us all.”
The diocese extends its best wishes to Paulette as she embarks on a new chapter, serving the students at New Ulm Area Catholic Schools.
Fr. Schmit recognized for outstanding leadership
NEW ULM – Fr. George Schmit, a long-standing Diocese of New Ulm building committee chair, is retiring after serving under three bishops. His dedication and leadership have been instrumental in numerous building and renovation projects across the diocese, leaving a lasting legacy.
The appointment to this significant position is made by the diocesan bishop, a role Fr. Schmit has held since 2002 when Bishop John C. Nienstedt recognized his ‘eye for detail’ and entrusted him with this responsibility.
associate in the parish communities of Bird Island, Olivia, and Renville.
The diocesan building committee, a vital consultative body, plays a crucial role in the diocese. It reviews and recommends building and renovation plans, ensuring the prudent stewardship of parish resources.
It is normal that every diocese would have a committee of individuals with experience in various aspects of building, construction, and maintenance. The committee’s task is to review significant building projects that need approval, identifying any
(Photo submitted)
issues or concerns, always with the goal of making good decisions relating to the stewardship of local parishes, who often times can use one more “set of eyes” to look over major construction and maintenance plans.
Effective July 1, 2024 Fr. Paul Wolf, who has served on the building committee for over 15 years, will succeed Fr. Schmit, ensuring a seamless transition and the continued effective operation of the diocesan building committee.
Official appointment
Effective July 1, 2024
With the recommendation of the priest personnel board, Bishop Chad Zielinski has appointed Fr. Steve Verhelst to assume the duties of the Bishop’s Delegate to the
Permanent Diaconate for the diocese, those responsibilities being now permanently merged into his current office as Vicar for Clergy. Fr. Verhelst serves the Bread of Life AFC (Marshall and Cottonwood).
Welcome Fr. Michael Skluzacek
Fr. Michael Skluzacek, a priest of the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis who has recently retired, has offered part-time services to the Diocese of New Ulm beginning
Oct. 1, 2024. He will serve as a mentor priest for Fr. Shawn Polman and Fr. John Hayes as they transition into their new roles as parochial administrators of their respective Area Faith Communities.
returns to Nigeria
Fr. Christian Adike, of the Archdiocese of Onitsha in Nigeria, who has served in the Diocese of New Ulm for six years, returned in May to Nigeria to pursue academic studies. While in the diocese he served in the parish communities of Redwood Falls, Wabasso, and the Jesus Our Living Water AFC (Willmar, Spicer, and Clara City).
Fr. Christian
Kevin Losleben
Paulette Kral
Fr. George Schmit, pictured with Bishop Chad Zielinski, currently serves as senior
por obispo Chad Zielinski
¡Escucha a Dios, Entrégale tu Corazón y Ten Esperanza!
El 27 de septiembre de 2022, fui instalado como el quinto obispo de la Diócesis de New Ulm. En mi homilía, expresé mi entusiasmo al saber que nuestra diócesis se había unido a las otras cinco diócesis (arquidiócesis) de Minnesota, así como a las de todo el país, en un Año de Reavivamiento Eucarístico de tres años, que comenzó el Domingo de Corpus Christi, 16 de junio de 2022. Ese día se invité a todos a centrarse en tres movimientos del corazón y el alma durante este proceso de renovación: ¡Escucha a Dios, Entrégale tu Corazón y Ten Esperanza!
Estos movimientos no son solo acciones, sino que representan un profundo viaje espiritual. Al rendirnos por completo a Dios y encontrarnos con Jesús en la Sagrada Eucaristía, creo firmemente que nuestra diócesis, nuestro estado, nuestra nación y nuestro mundo serán transformados. Este encuentro está destinado a encender un fuego que nos envíe como embajadores de esperanza para proclamar la Buena Nueva del Evangelio. He sido testigo de esta acción en la vida de las buenas personas de Dios en toda la diócesis, y me llena de esperanza e inspiración para el futuro.
A través de la gracia del Espíritu Santo, han formado equipos de evangelización en sus parroquias, ansiosos por salir, de dos en dos, como Jesús envió a sus discípulos. Salgan como testigos valientes del Cristo Resucitado.
¡Escucha a Dios!
Durante estos últimos dos años, he visto a muchos de ustedes correr hacia el pozo para recibir las aguas sanadoras que fluyen a través de la vida sacramental de la Iglesia. Esto ha sucedido durante los numerosos servicios de Esperanza y Sanación patrocinados por la diócesis ofrecidos en toda la diócesis. Los conferencistas principales de la Conferencia Obispo Lucker y los predicadores misioneros de la Renovación Eucarística han llevado la Palabra de Dios a nuestros maestros de las escuelas católicas, catequistas y laicos que tienen hambre de aprender más y acercarse a Cristo.
Esta llama de fe, avivó el fervor dentro de un gran grupo de nuestra diócesis que junto con unos a aproximadamente 5,000 hermanos
Para que tengan vida
y hermanas de varias diócesis de Minnesota y fuera de Minnesota también que asistieron al Congreso Eucarístico Estrella del Norte, celebrado del 17 al 19 de mayo. Durante esta reunión, las buenas personas de Dios encontraron al Señor Resucitado en la Sagrada Eucaristía primero en Bemidji, Minnesota, luego en las Cabeceras del Río Misisipi en el Parque Estatal Itasca, y terminaron con un encuentro con la Sagrada Eucaristía en la Iglesia de San Antonio en Watkins para una Hora Santa que llamamos Ignite. Me conmovió profundamente ver a tantos llenar una iglesia para adorar y estar presentes ante nuestro Señor en la Adoración Eucarística.
Entregándole nuestro Corazón. Este río de gracia y hambre de encontrarse con el Pan de Vida motivó a más de 50 peregrinos de la Diócesis de New Ulma unirse a más de 55,000 fieles cristianos en el Congreso Eucarístico Nacional en Indianápolis del 18 al 21 de julio. Al ver esta magnífica multitud, unida con un solo corazón y mente por el poder del Espíritu Santo, había una paz, gracia y vínculo de unidad palpables e inexplicables. Qué alegría radiante ver una procesión eucarística de tal magnitud, cantando y alabando su amor por el Señor en múltiples idiomas. Realmente fue un evento de Pentecostés que atravesó y sanó miles de corazones, mentes y almas, fomentando un profundo sentido de unidad y paz entre todos los presentes.
Cuando regresé de Indianápolis, uno de mis hermanos sacerdotes me preguntó qué permanecía grabado en mi corazón y mente después de asistir al Congreso Eucarístico. Como sacerdote, una de las formas más poderosas en que veo entregar a Dios tu corazón es en el confesionario. Durante el Congreso Eucarístico, tuve la oportunidad de escuchar confesiones durante dos horas. Fue una experiencia hermosa presenciar a tantas personas arrodillarse, hacer sus confesiones y crear ese espacio lleno de gracia en sus corazones para ser llenos de la Eucaristía. Este es el Cuerpo Místico de Cristo siendo purificado una y otra vez.
Teniendo Esperanza. Entonces, ¿quién es esta persona que han venido a ver?
Esta persona es una Persona muy Real que está locamente enamorada de nosotros. Él quiere acercarse a nosotros; quiere que lo consumamos en Palabra y Carne al ofrecerse como el Pan de Vida para que nunca volvamos
El obispo Chad Zielinski se toma un descanso del reciente Congreso Eucarístico en Indianápolis para una foto grupal con líderes hispanos y laicos de la Diócesis de New Ulm. En la foto, de izq. a der., Rosa María Arena, Stephanie Martinez, Jenner Herrera, Yonis Martinez, Bishop, Elvia Peña, Adrian Medina Palma, Flor Medina Palma, Antonio Medina, Anisabel Palma. (Photo submitted.)
a tener hambre. Este es un acto profundamente personal e íntimo de amor, un recordatorio profundo de cuán apreciado y amado es cada uno de nosotros a los ojos del Señor.
La fe, la esperanza y el amor son virtudes teológicas que se infunden en el núcleo de nuestro ser en el
bautismo. Jesús quiere que seamos un pueblo de esperanza; esperanza que coloca toda nuestra confianza en él y solo en él. Esperanza que no cree que un sistema gubernamental particular o algún funcionario electo nos va a salvar. Tenemos una esperanza que cree que, sin importar cuán dificiles se vuelvan las cosas, Jesús vence al final. Una
esperanza que nos da ánimo y entusiasmo para despertar por la mañana y agradecer a Dios por el día, incluso aunque tengamos que luchar con la oscuridad en algunos momentos de nuestras vidas. Estamos llamados a ser testigos valientes de la Esperanza del Cristo Resucitado.
Año 3 de la Renovación Eucarística, “Salir en Misión” Durante este último año de Renovación Eucarística (21 de julio de 2024 – Pentecostés 2025), estamos siendo enviados en misión y se nos anima a “caminar con uno.” Como miembros de esta diócesis, no son solo participantes pasivos, sino contribuyentes activos a esta misión. Se nos recuerda que la Iglesia está “en procesión” y la procesión avanza cada día hacia el Reino de los Cielos. Como embajadores de Esperanza, se les pide que salgan y caminen con los demás; sean compañeros que compartan la amistad común de Cristo.
No se trata de edificios y estructuras aquí en la tierra, sino de ser parte de una “Iglesia en procesión.” El Reino de los Cielos - ese es nuestro objetivo final.
EDITORIAL: Caridad en la Plaza Pública por el Obispo Zielinski
En 1993, San Juan Pablo II redactó un extenso documento titulado El Esplendor de la Verdad. Creo firmemente que el Espíritu Santo lo guió en una época en la que nuestra sociedad estaba dominada por el relativismo, lo cual influyó en muchos para adoptar este enfoque en la toma de decisiones morales. El gran santo nos recordó que la verdad es revelada por Dios y dada a la humanidad a través de la guía de la Iglesia para conducirnos finalmente a la salvación eterna. Esta verdad no es solo para que la aceptemos, sino para que la busquemos activamente y la defendamos. Estamos hechos para escuchar la verdad, meditar sobre la verdad y elegir la verdad porque nuestra conciencia, cuando está bien formada, afirmará que nuestra decisión se basa en esta verdad revelada divinamente.
Lamentablemente, nuestra sociedad ha promovido al individuo como el único árbitro de la verdad. Esta ideología prevalente, bajo el disfraz de aceptación y tolerancia, aboga por la adopción de la verdad de otro, incluso si contradice la verdad revelada por Dios. Esta norma social ha llevado a una cultura de demonización de aquellos que
tienen puntos de vista diferentes y a la práctica de ‘anular’ sus perspectivas.
Esta visión centrada en el individuo domina actualmente el discurso político de hoy, lo que lleva a una sociedad cargada emocionalmente y profundamente dividida. Es crucial que cada uno de nosotros resista ser arrastrado a esta polarización, especialmente a medida que el clima político se intensifica.
En conversaciones con muchos obispos, clérigos y buenos hijos de Dios, hay algo que inquieta nuestra conciencia y nos dice: “Esto está desequilibrado” y “Esto no es lo que Jesús nos llama a hacer en el Evangelio.” Cuando los cristianos están dominados por la división, la ira y la desconfianza hacia los demás, el diablo gana ese día. Cuando esta actitud consume el corazón y la mente de uno, yo, como hijo de Dios, nunca veré a otro como hecho a imagen y semejanza de Dios.
Es vital que abracemos la verdad revelada divinamente, que consumimos en la Santa Eucaristía para unirnos más perfectamente como Su Cuerpo Místico. A través de una oración y discernimiento
serios, permitamos que esta verdad penetre en nuestro corazón y mente, formando nuestra conciencia para elegir con claridad y caridad. Oro para que todos adoptemos una actitud de civismo que permita que los frutos del Espíritu Santo florezcan en medio de las tensiones de la división. Todos necesitamos una profunda sanación, que solo puede venir de Jesús, el médico divino, a través del poder del Espíritu Santo.
A medida que nos acercamos al próximo ciclo electoral, les insto a revisar algunos recursos (disponibles en inglés y español) de la Conferencia de Obispos Católicos de los Estados Unidos en www.USCCB.org. Son “Formando Conciencias para una Ciudadanía Fiel” y “Civilízalo: Un Paquete de Promoción para una Política Mejor.”
Estoy seguro de que la verdad de Dios traerá una sanación del corazón y la mente, uniéndonos más íntimamente en Su Cuerpo Místico. Oremos por la gracia, escuchemos a los demás con los oídos de Cristo, veamos con Sus ojos y respondamos con la verdad en compasión y amor. Cada uno de nosotros tiene un papel crucial en la promoción de esta unidad.
Office of Schools hosts training for new teachers
by Dr. Michelle Kramer Director of Catholic Schools
A brand new school year is upon us, and for the teachers in Catholic schools throughout the Diocese of New Ulm, it is time for days of workshops and formation. In the summer of 2023, the diocese began conducting a training session for teachers new to Catholic schools. This year, the annual fall new teacher orientation day was held on Wednesday, Aug. 14, and was divided into three parts.
The first part covered mission and identity during which we took a closer look at “The Holy See's Teaching on Catholic Schools,” written by Archbishop J. Michael Miller, CSB. This document presented the five essential marks of a Catholic school, which include: 1.) Inspired by a supernatural vision, 2.) Founded on a Christian anthropology, 3.) Animated by communion and community, 4.) Imbued with a Catholic worldview throughout its curriculum, and 5.) Sustained by Gospel witness.
Indeed, these five marks are a great review for all schools and families, a critical reminder of the daily call to serve the Church in this important role as educators in the faith. From our Catholic Christian worldview to our curriculum to our call to be credible witnesses, our Catholic schools live out these marks in a powerful way.
The second part of the workshop focused on the practical aspects of education, and how one lives and breathes Catholic identity in every part of the classroom. The session was led by one of our Catholic school principals, Jaci Garvey of St. Edward School in Minneota. Garvey helped teachers
education
New Catholic school leadership in diocese
understand how the mission is lived out in practical ways through their work with students, prayer and faith formation, and their partnership with families.
The third element of the day was a focus on sexual identity. When the transgender movement began to impact Minnesota in 2019 in a more significant way, the Catholic bishops of Minnesota collectively drafted a list of ten guiding principles for instruction and practice in sexual identity to be used in Catholic schools. At that time, Bishop Emeritus John LeVoir established a requirement for all teachers in the diocese to take part in training to help them better understand Christian anthropology, God’s divine plan, and the Catholic Church’s teachings on sexual identity.
Now, under the leadership of Bishop Chad Zielinski, we continue to recognize the value of this training as secular ideologies permeate education and culture in the state of Minnesota, particularly regarding sexual identity. In addition to Christian anthropology, this training portion reinforced how our schools live out our mission with clarity and charity.
As we embark on this new school year, let us continue to pray for our Catholic schools’ students, faculty, staff, administrators, clergy, and families. On behalf of our 13 Catholic schools in the Diocese of New Ulm, I extend my thanks for the continuous support by individuals and parishes for the schools. Your partnership is not just appreciated but crucial as we seek to accomplish the great commission from Matthew’s Gospel to preach the Gospel to all nations, uniting us in our shared mission.
NEW ULM – This academic year, three new principals have taken the helm at four Catholic schools in the Diocese of New Ulm.
Amanda Roche of John Ireland School in St. Peter, is a dedicated leader with a profound commitment to education and faith. Her diverse background experience as a Catholic missionary and high school theology teacher has honed her skills in fostering a positive and spirit-led environment.
Roche holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and is currently completing a master’s in curriculum, instruction, and assessment with an emphasis on Catholic education. Her leadership, guided by compassion, is set to promote growth and development both academically and personally for each student of John Ireland, reinforcing the school’s values.
Shelly Mendiola of Holy Trinity School in Winsted holds a bachelor’s degree and a graduate teaching licensure from the College of St. Scholastica. She is currently enrolled at the St. Paul Seminary Institute for Catholic School Leadership. Prior to her teaching career, Mendiola worked in parish ministry as a DRE for
20+ years, serving in the Diocese of Duluth, the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis, and the Diocese of New Ulm.
Mendiola and her husband, Carlos, live in Dassel and have six children, three of whom are Holy Trinity alumni and three who are current students.
Justin Condelli, the new Dean of Students and Staff at Holy Redeemer School in Marshall and St. Mary’s School in Tracy, brings a wealth of experience in
education and fine arts. Prior to his current role, Condelli taught band and theater at Holy Redeemer. With his years of experience at Holy Redeemer and his prior experience, he has a total of 11 years in education. His military background has equipped him with the skills to serve as the Safety Coordinator, a role in which he takes pride and ensures student safety. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his family and directing the Marshall Tiger Marching Band.
Bird Island teacher nominated for National Patricia Behring Teacher of the Year Award
BIRD ISLAND – In May, teachers from National History Day (NHD) Affiliate programs were nominated for the 2024 Patricia Behring Teacher of the Year award.
Stacy Lambrecht, an eighth-grade history teacher and assistant principal at St. Mary’s Catholic School in Bird Island was among these nominees. As a nominee, Lambrecht will receive $500.
“This award recognizes the very best educators from across the nation and beyond,” said National History Day Executive Director Dr. Cathy Gorn. “These educators are leaders and innovators in the teaching of history. They engage their students with hands-on, inquiry-based learning with primary sources. I congratulate them on their well-deserved nominations.”
National History Day is a nonprofit organization in College Park, Maryland that has affiliates in 50 states. The award is sponsored by the late Patricia Behring in recognition of the
pivotal role teachers play in the lives of students.
Congratulations Stacy Lambrecht for being nominated for such a prestigious honor!
NHD award nominee Stacy Lambrect, an eighth-grade history teacher and assistant principal at St. Mary’s School in Bird Island, is pictured beside student, Lila Beckler. (Photo submitted)
New principals serving in the diocese for the 2024-2025 school year are left, Amanda Roche, Shelly Mendiola, and Justin Condelli.
(Photo by Christy Baker)
A summer of faith and a whole lot of fun!
by Kevin Losleben
As the Diocese of New Ulm Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry concluded another successful summer of diocesan youth programming on August 4, we celebrated the growth of the Totus Tuus, a Catholic youth program dedicated to sharing the Gospel and promoting the Catholic faith through catechesis, evangelization, Christian witness, and Eucharistic worship. With 12 young adult missionaries, including participants from as far as Anchorage, Alaska, a recordbreaking 700 youth in 18 different parishes across the diocese were served, marking a significant increase in attendance since the program began in 2017.
Diocese of New Ulm priest Fr. Tanner Thooft, this year’s Totus Tuus chaplain who served on the first Totus Tuus team when it was first introduced in the diocese, shared his transformative experience, saying, “I served on the first Totus Tuus team in 2017. It was instrumental in my formation as a priest and has been for many other young adults throughout the years. It’s so great to see it continuing to grow and reach even more youth and young adults throughout the diocese and beyond!”
Caroline Meis, a Totus Tuus missionary from Le Mars, Iowa, shared her summer experience, saying, “It was amazing! I had three incredible teammates, and each week, we were able to invest deeply in a new community of parishioners.”
Every day, missionaries pray the rosary, Liturgy of the Hours, and a “holy hour” of adoration. Unlike other Totus Tuus programs across the country, the Diocese of New Ulm’s Totus Tuus program is unique in how it places heavy emphasisi on prayer.
“Even when I was tired and felt like I had nothing to offer, I saw the Lord working through my weakness,” said Meis. “I feel like my heart is 100 times bigger than it was at the beginning of the summer.”
Totus Tuus missionaries begin their summer of service at the end of May with a 10-day intensive
training conducted by the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry at Schoenstatt on the Lake in Sleepy Eye. They then serve for six weeks in parishes, teaching youth of all ages about different tenets of the Catholic faith through games, skits, and classroom experiences.
“Totus Tuus has changed my perspective on life,” said Anissa Kulzer, a second-year missionary from St. Philip’s in Litchfield. “The conversations shared at breakfast, a cup of coffee in the parish offices, playing tag at recess, sharing testimonies, these little moments of witness are so powerful.”
The missionaries’ summer ends with four diocesan camps: Camp Beloved and Camp Greatness, each with a middle school and high school iteration.
This year, all four camps experienced record levels of attendance, doubling in size from last year and creating the need for a waiting list for Camp Greatness.
“What I love most about Camp Greatness is the team building and fellowship,” said Paul Goedtke, a sophomore from St. Mary’s in Sleepy Eye.
Camp Greatness – a camp for boys, focuses on practical tools for teens to live virtuous lives in the real world.
“[Camp] has helped me develop a consistent prayer life, making sure to spend time with Jesus every day,” said Goedtke.
But Camp Greatness is not short on activity. The camp is filled with sports, some unique to Camp Greatness.
“ManBall has taken on a life of its own,” said Fr. Tanner Thooft who is also chaplain for Camp Greatness and assistant vocations director for the diocese. “It’s basically dodgeball, but instead of two teams, there are four. So you’ve got ‘em coming at you from all angles.”
At Camp Greatness, high school, teams are assigned based on the deanery from which each camper comes. These teams are called contrada, the Italian word for
faith formation
This year, all four Diocese of New Ulm summer camps experienced record attendance levels, doubling in size from last year and creating the need for a waiting list for Camp Greatness. Pictured are campgoers of Camp Greatness for Middle School students. (Photos
“neighborhood.” Each contrada has its mascot based on an actual contrada in Siena, Italy, where the idea originated.
“These young men are being formed throughout the week together as brothers,” said John Mendiola, a third-year Totus Tuus missionary from St. John’s in Darwin. “They come out of camp hungry for the Lord, and I have seen in my deanery that the presence of these young boys and their hunger for more is showing hope for the future of our parishes.”
Camp Beloved, a girl’s camp, has also produced a sense of belonging to a diocesan family among the campers.
“There are so many things about Camp Beloved that I enjoy, but my favorite is the sense of family there,” said Averie Turner, a junior from Our Lady of the Lakes, Spicer.
Like Camp Greatness, campers enjoy games, talks, adoration, and Mass. Camp Beloved also features crafting, a dance party, and “Jesus Tunes,” a lighthearted game where the girls rewrite a secular song to make it Christian.
Camp Beloved, directed this year by Allison Steinkamp, Sr. Cecilia Joy, and Sr. Maria Luz, with Fr. Nathan Hansen serving as chaplain, seeks to remind young women that they are created by God and have dignity as beloved daughters of the Father.
“Being able to be so open at camp about your struggles has showed me that I truly have no idea who other people really are!” said Turner. “It has influenced how I
Chad Zielinski blesses campers at Camp
(high school session) following an intense round of ManBall, one of the many games unique to Camp Greatness that campers really enjoy.
act to every new stranger I meet, and to give them a chance no matter what!”
Turner is also a member of COR, a diocesan youth group focused on prayer and service. COR members will host two COR Nights again this school year on December 15 and February 23. Jackie Angel, a popular Catholic speaker, musician, and online personality, will speak in December. COR
Night consists of an evening of entertainment, a speaker, a meal, and Eucharistic adoration and has become a popular destination for youth groups around the diocese to encounter Jesus and build diocesan community.
Editor’s note: Kevin Losleben is the director of Youth and Young Adult Ministry for the Diocese of New Ulm, klosleben@dnu.org.
Sr. Maria Luz, a Handmaid of the Heart of Jesus, plays water volleyball in Sleepy Eye Lake with the campers at Camp Beloved (high School session).
Bishop
Greatness
by Allison Steinkamp)
worship
Secular Carmelite; a journey of spiritual growth
SPICER, Minn. – Our Lady of the Divine Mercy Community of Secular Carmelites, a steadfast presence in the Jesus Our Living Water Area Faith Community (Clara City, Willmar and Spicer), has been meeting at Our Lady of the Lakes in Spicer since 2011. They currently have 16 members in different stages of formation and two visitors in discernment.
“Secular” in the Secular Carmelites is what formerly was referred to in the Church as a “third order,” a group that is affiliated with, or in the case of Carmelites, is part of a religious order in the Church (such as the Carmelites, Franciscans, Dominicans, and Benedictines), but as lay people who live “in the world” while observing the charisms and life of the religious order according to their state in life.
On Pentecost Sunday, May 21, 2024, Anita Hormann of Willmar and Lynn Halbakken of Morris
made their Definitive Profession in the Secular Carmelite Order, and Holly Nester Simon of Sleepy Eye received the Brown Ceremonial Scapular (called the “Clothing” and marking her reception into the Order), during a Mass at Our Lady of the Lakes celebrated by
A thank you note to a priest
by Christine Clancy, editor The Prairie Catholic
To all the priests who have answered God’s call, endured great sacrifice, and given that extra measure to bring each of us closer to Christ: Thank you.
In 2003, the USA Council of Serra International, whose mission is to foster and affirm vocations to the priesthood and vowed religious life, organized the first Priesthood Sunday. Annually, this particular day provides an opportunity for Catholic communities to express appreciation for the devoted priests who serve them so faithfully. This year’s Priesthood Sunday falls on September 29.
With the declining number of priests in the United States, such a celebration is increasingly relevant. Very few of the over 17,000 Catholic parishes in this country currently have more than one priest. Many priests serve two or more parishes.
In the Diocese of New Ulm there are 31 assigned priests. These dedicated pastoral leaders are necessary for us to have recourse to sacraments such as reconciliation, anointing, and, most importantly, the Holy Eucharist.
However, these men are more than just a shepherd in our parishes. They are the pillars of our community, serving as friends, comforters, advisers, and counselors. They share our joys at weddings, our sorrows at funerals, and guide us through life’s challenges, providing the spiritual strength we need to seek God’s wisdom.
Each priest brings a unique set of gifts to our community. Some are great homilists, others are great spiritual directors. Some are outgoing, others are reserved. But they all share a deep love for Jesus Christ, the Catholic Church, and its faithful. And for that, we should all be immeasurably grateful.
For everything a priest does for the Church’s faithful and beyond, Priesthood Sunday is a chance for parishioners to give back, whether through a simple “thank you,” a gesture of appreciation, or a word
spiritual assistant (chaplain), Fr. Mark Steffl.
If you are interested in learning more about the Secular Carmelite contact Kathy Green, director of Formation, kmchristina1960.kg@ gmail.com.
of encouragement.
“I would like to thank the men who accepted the calling of The Holy Spirit to become priests and who have shepherded me,” wrote Matthew Buckley of the Church of St. Catherine in Redwood Falls.
“These men of the cloth include Monsignor Eugene Lozinski, Fr. Germain Rademacher, Fr. Paul Schumacher, Fr. Michael Doyle, Fr. Mark Steffl, Fr. Christian Adike, Fr. Robert Mraz, Fr. Cornelius Ezeiloaku, and Fr. Anthony Hesse. These men have not only been spiritual fathers to me but also friends. They have made me a better man, a better Catholic Christian, and most importantly have led me closer to Jesus Christ.”
Submit your letter of appreciation
Matthew’s letter and other letters of appreciation can be viewed at www.dnu.org/ priesthoodsunday2024.
The diocesan Office of Vocations invites you to submit a letter of appreciation for a particular priest that has been a part of your life. Email vocations@dnu.org or mail it to Office of Vocations, 1421 6th Street North, New Ulm, MN 56073.
Ask Father Mike: How do I know if it’s God speaking to me?
by Fr. Mike Schmitz
Q. I’ve been praying and trying to get closer to God. But sometimes I don’t know if what I’m thinking is actually God’s voice or if it is just my own thoughts. Is there any way that I can tell?
A. This is a fantastic question. We know that the secret of holiness is not found in doing remarkable tasks or accomplishing phenomenal feats for God. The secret of holiness is found in simply doing God’s will. And God’s will might be something extreme, but most likely God’s will is simple and doable. Another way to say it is that God’s will is most often “local” – you rarely have to leave home in order to carry it out.
St. Mother Teresa said it like this: “Stay where you are. Find your own Calcutta. Find the sick, the suffering, and the lonely right where you are – in your own homes and in your own families, in your workplaces and in your schools.”
If this is the case, then God most likely wants you to be a saint right where you are. In other words, you can find God’s will right here and right now.
First, we have to remember that there are many voices in our lives. Scripture would even identify some of the deceptive voices (or temptations) in our lives as coming from one of three sources: the world, the flesh, and the devil. We know that there is “common sense,” which can often be helpful. But there is also “the wisdom of the world,” which does not often see things the way God sees them. For example, the wisdom of the world might look at someone with severe medical issues and conclude that the most “compassionate” thing to do for that person would be to prematurely end their life and “spare” them further suffering. This would be evil and wrong. The wisdom of God reveals that every life matters, no matter the suffering. The wisdom of God reveals that power can be found in uniting our suffering to Christ’s. Because of this, we need to be wary of the voice of the world.
There is also “the flesh.” When Scripture talks about “the flesh,” it is referring to our fallen human nature. It is referring to the fact
that, because of Original Sin, we have all inherited a broken heart; there is something in us that is drawn towards what we know is bad for us. Since this is the case, I cannot simply trust my desires. In fact, it would be wise to examine them before acting on them.
And there is the devil. We know that God made purely spiritual beings that we call angels. And we know that a certain number of these angels chose to rebel against God and seek to lead all those whom God loves away from him. God’s angels are in our lives and guard and intercede for us, but the fallen angels invade our lives and try to mislead and confuse us. Theirs is a voice that we need to be aware of, as well. That being said, your question is still valid. How do you know if some thought or inspiration to act is from God or is just your own idea? There are a number of questions to ask and at least one thing to do in order to really know.
First, we need to ask if this “voice” goes against God’s Word in Scripture. If God has already revealed his will and his heart in a particular area, then he will not contradict himself. The example I always come back to is that a married person does not have to “discern” whether or not God is calling them to pursue a romantic relationship with anyone other than their spouse. God has spoken, therefore we already know what he would say on that particular topic.
The next question is closely connected to the first. We also ask if this “voice” opposes the teaching of the Catholic Church. Jesus Christ founded the Catholic Church and promised to guide the church through the Holy Spirit into all truth. Jesus promised that he would never abandon the Catholic Church and that those “who hear you [the Apostles] hear me.” We know that the Catholic Church has sacred authority to teach definitively and unerringly in the name of Jesus. Therefore, any “voice” that we hear must be consistent with the Church’s teaching.
Another question we can ask is a bit more personal and subjective. I invite folks who are discerning the source of a voice to ask, “Who does that voice sound like?” There
(Continued on page 12.)
Pictured with the Secular Carmelites Order chaplain, Fr. Mark Steffl are (l-r) Anita Hormann, Lynn Halbakken, and Holly Nester Simon. (Photo submitted)
Whether by bus, car, or by foot, locally over 70 people from the Diocese of New Ulm traveled to Indianapolis in July to attend the National Eucharistic Congress, a profound moment for the whole Church in the U.S. to gather as a Catholic family united in prayer.
by Dr. Michelle Kramer
I grew up number nine of 12, so I have always understood what it means to be family. They come in all shapes and sizes with varying degrees of chaos and closeness. However, the concept of family takes on a whole new meaning when we look through the lens of faith.
This summer I was privileged to travel with 47 youth and adults from the Diocese of New Ulm to the National Eucharistic Congress (NEC) held July 16-22, in Indianapolis, Ind. This five-day event was not just a gathering but a significant time in the history of our Church, an experience of the family that is the Church. The NEC, a culmination of a threeyear revival, was a testament to the Church’s desire for a deeper understanding of Christ’s real presence in the Holy Eucharist. It was a time for us to come together
Save the Date!
The Diocese of New Ulm is planning a parallel pilgrimage and Eucharistic procession in the diocese for the summer of 2025, and we warmly extend this invitation to you to be a part of this significant event!
Congress in Indianapolis: An experience of family
as a family, to strengthen our faith, and to be inspired for the mission ahead.
The Congress was a profoundly Trinitarian experience for me. Witnessing a group of some 50,000 believers was a beautiful testament to God’s divine plan. The diverse cultures and languages that were present were a clear sign of God’s design. We were brought together in this time and space to experience his glory in a new and profound way, reinforcing our sense of unity and belonging in the larger spiritual family.
Often perceived as the most mysterious person of the Trinity, the Holy Spirit was profoundly present at NEC. You might sense it as energy; you might feel it in the heart pounding in your chest, move and raise your hands, have tears, or even tip over. The Holy Spirit moved powerfully in and through us, bringing peace and joy that, though I may make attempts, are really too big for words.
The week was filled with dynamic speakers, profound messages, beautiful prayer experiences, and exceptional music, but above all, one could sense Jesus was there as we adored him through sacred processions, Eucharistic adoration and each day at Mass. And as we were sent out for mission in the closing Mass on Sunday, Papal Delegate Cardinal Luis Tagle reminded us, “What you have heard, touched, and tasted, you must share with others.”
On the last night of the Congress, the group of pilgrims from the Diocese of New Ulm that I traveled with shared the week’s
Just as the pilgrimage from the four corners of the United States to Indianapolis united Catholics, this diocesan pilgrimage on June 22 - 29, 2025, is a unique opportunity for all Catholics across the Diocese of New Ulm to come together in a sizeable Eucharistic procession that seeks to make Jesus known and loved in this area.
Don’t miss out on this exciting event! Stay connected with the Diocese of New Ulm website and our Facebook page to be the first to know about the latest updates and how you can get involved.
Visit: www.dnu.org
Bishop Chad Zielinski, bishop of the Diocese of New Ulm was joined by deacons and members of his diocesan staff at the National Eucharistic Congress held July 16-22 in Indianapolis. Pictured (l-r), Dr. Michelle Kramer, director of the Office of Catholic Schools, Janice and Deacon Ken Noyes of Marshall, Ruthann and Deacon John Hansen of Darwin, Bishop Zielinski, Leonard Gutierrez, director of the Office of Evangelization, Anisabel Palma, director of the Office of Hispanic Ministry, Sr. Candace Fier, ISSM, director of the Office of Family Life. (Photos submitted)
takeaways. They were vast –profound encounters and quiet reminders of the Lord’s presence. We have pages of notes and full hearts. What’s more, we now have a mission – to bring back, if only one, to the Eucharist.
Editor’s note: Dr. Michelle Kramer serves as diocesan director of Catholic Schools. She was part of the Diocese of New Ulm’s Eucharistic Revival Planning Committee, helping to coordinate the pilgrimage to the Congress in Indianpolis.
During a Eucharistic Procession, the faithful lined the streets of Indianapolis to get a glimpse of Jesus!
Youth and adults from the Diocese of New Ulm and Eden Valley in the Diocese of St. Cloud line up to participate in the one-mile Eucharistic Procession from the Congress to the Indiana War Memorial.
The Year of Mission 2024-2025
Entering year three of the Eucharistic Revival
by Leonard Gutierrez Office of Evangelization
According to Pew Research Center, only 31% of Catholics believe in the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist.
Therefore, it is up to that 31% to spread the truth to all. As the Eucharistic Revival website says: “We all need healing, yet many of us are separated from the very source of our strength. Jesus Christ invites us to return to the source and summit of our faith – his real presence in the holy Eucharist.”
Year of Mission
As we enter the Year of Mission, the third year of the Revival journey, we are filled with hope and excitement for what is to come. This year is not just the start of the final year but the continuation of the Eucharistic Revival that has already begun. It is the beginning of a new movement that will go beyond time.
To kick off the Year of Mission in the Diocese of New Ulm, the diocesan Office of Evangelization hosted a gathering on August 12 at the Diocesan Pastoral Center in New Ulm. Thirty-five Eucharistic
Patrick and Mary Hansen (left) from St. John, Darwin speak with Mark and Joan Wiering from St. Dionysius, Tyler as they participate in the REVIVE 2024 Retreat in August in New Ulm.
Revival parish captains and deacons, who play a crucial role in leading and organizing Eucharistic activities in their respective parishes, attended.
The day-long retreat was a powerful testament to our unity in the heart of the Eucharistic Revival and its four pillars: Eucharistic encounter, Eucharistic identity, Eucharistic life, and Eucharistic mission.
Over the course of the next year,
these leaders will continue to bring Eucharistic Revival to their parishes as well as engage in ongoing formation and training, fostering a deep sense of community and bringing ‘one’ back to the Eucharist.
If you want to hear more and join some of our formation opportunities this coming year, contact the Office of Evangelization, lgutierrez@dnu. org.
Pilgrims witness to love of Jesus in the Eucharist
Pilgrim Elizabeth Raney St. Andrew, Granite Falls
“It was amazingly awesome! From the enormous crowd that gathered on day one to the love generating from the impact sessions held in the stadium, to the witness testimonials and guest speakers. Being on the sidelines of the street as Jesus passed by, I witnessed the reverence and love for our Lord.”
Pilgrims Cheryl and Ken Lanoue Holy Redeemer, Marshall
“We were amazed by the great number of people who love Jesus. It was incredible to be in company with such a large number of people all present for one reasonto honor, adore, and praise Jesus. One couldn’t be around a better group of people. The event was so well planned, and we loved being with other people from the Diocese of New Ulm.”
Pilgrim Antonio Medina St. Mary, Willmar
“I was very blessed to be in a place full of love and thirsty for the Holy Eucharist.”
“Fui muy bendecido de estar en un lugar lleno de amor y sediento de la Sagrada Eucaristía.”
Fr. Landry: “Eucharist and evangelization are meant to be united”
(Continued
Father to give us the Eucharist; in him, mission and gift are united.
In us, Eucharist and evangelization are meant to be united, too.
Cardinal Tagle proclaimed, “Jesus says, ‘I came down from heaven not to do my will but the will of the One who sent me.’ Jesus is sent to be given by the Father to others. He is sent to be a gift. … The missionary is a gift. Mission is not just about work but also about the gift of oneself. Jesus fulfills his mission by giving himself, his flesh, his presence, to others as the Father wills it. … Jesus’ mission and gift of self meet in the Eucharist.”
He continued, “Where there is a lack or a weakness of missionary zeal, maybe it is partly due to a weakening in the appreciation of gifts and giftedness. … Those who do not see gifts in themselves and in others will not give gifts. They will not go on a mission.”
He asked whether husbands and wives see each other as gifts or problems; whether children see their parents as gifts or ATM cards; whether parents see children as gifts or burdens; whether priests and deacons see their bishops, religious see their superiors, whether all of us see the poor, homeless and sick and those who are different as gifts.
To see ourselves and others as gifts, he continued, and to live out of Christian mission, we must regard the Eucharistic Jesus as a gift. Many, he stated, see the Eucharistic Jesus as a problem. In John 6, when Jesus declared that he is the Bread of Life and that we need to eat his flesh and drink his blood, many of his disciples responded aloud by saying the teaching was hard and wondering who could accept it. Many, as St. John said, returned to their former way of life and no longer walked with Jesus.
Cardinal Tagle noted, sadly, that “they returned to a way of life without Jesus. They chose his absence rather than his presence in their lives. Instead of accompanying him, they walked alone. Their rejection of the gift of Jesus’ word, Body and Blood meant they would not walk with him, and neither could he send them on mission.”
from page 1.)
Cardinal Tagle then focused on what happened after many of the disciples had left Jesus. Jesus asked the Twelve Apostles whether they, too, wanted to leave. Simon Peter replied, “Master, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We have come to believe and are convinced that you are the Holy One of God.”
Cardinal Tagle commented, “Jesus is asking each one of us, ‘Do you also want to leave me?’ Like the others, I hope we can answer like Peter: ‘We will stay with you, Lord! We refuse to live far from your presence!’”
He stressed, “Those who choose to stay with Jesus will be sent by Jesus. The gift of his presence and love for us will be our gift to people. We should not keep Jesus to ourselves. That is not discipleship. That is selfishness. The gift we have received, we should give as a gift.”
He cited Pope Francis’ letter to the congress, which he said expressed the hope “that the participants of the congress, fully aware of the universal gifts they receive from heavenly food, may impart them to others.”
He summarized, “A Eucharistic people is a missionary and evangelizing people. … When the priest or deacon says, ‘The Mass is ended, go in the peace of Christ,’ please go! … What you have heard, touched and tasted, you must share with others. We have received the gift of Jesus! Let us go to proclaim Jesus zealously and joyfully for the life of the world!”
That is the way we are all called to live out the Revival.
We are on a mission to have people join us on the Eucharistic pilgrimage of earthly life and at the sabbatine or daily Eucharistic congress around the altar.
Editor’s note: Fr. Landry concluded a 65-day Eucharistic pilgrimage across the United States as part of the Eucharistic Revival and the 10th National Eucharistic Congress. He was the only priest who walked with Jesus during the entire pilgrimage, underscoring his dedication to bringing Christ to all corners of the world.
by Fr. Mark Steffl, STL, JCL
The word “reserved” in this month’s question refers to where the Holy Eucharist can be kept or stored outside of Mass.
The history of reserving the Holy Eucharist in churches began in the early centuries of the Church to provide for the sick and especially the dying to be able to receive Holy Communion, especially as viaticum, a Latin word meaning “Food for the Journey” to eternal life. Also, early in the history of the Church, reserving the Holy Eucharist in churches allowed for the devotional life of the Church to be deepened by providing an opportunity for the Christian Faithful to adore and worship the Holy Eucharist outside of the Mass, from which the Eucharist comes, and when it is normal for a Catholic to receive Holy Communion.
Because of what we believe the Eucharist to be, it is very natural
Ask a Canon Lawyer
This month’s question: What are the rules about where and who can have the Eucharist reserved?
that it comes under the oversight of the diocesan bishop to be vigilant so that the Holy Eucharist is cared for with the utmost devotion and reverence.
The universal law governing the Church, the Code of Canon Law, says:
Canon 934 §1. The Most Holy Eucharist:
1 Must be reserved in the cathedral church or its equivalent, in every parish church, and in a church or oratory connected to the house of a religious institute or society of apostolic life;
2 Can be reserved in the chapel of the bishop and, with the permission of the local ordinary, in other churches, oratories, and chapels.
§2. In sacred places where the Most Holy Eucharist is reserved, there must always be someone responsible for it and, insofar as possible, a priest is to celebrate Mass there at least twice a month.
This canon makes it clear that
Church Law foresees that the Holy Eucharist would always be reserved in:
• cathedral churches
• churches that are parishes (parish churches)
• and churches, or chapels (also called “oratories”) that are connected to houses where members of religious communities reside.
Also apparent are other places where, with the permission of the diocesan bishop or his representative, the Holy Eucharist can be reserved:
• the chapel of a bishop • other churches, oratories, or chapels
In the Diocese of New Ulm, places where the Holy Eucharist is reserved outside of parish churches would include the chapel of Divine Providence Community Home in Sleepy Eye, cared for by the religious sisters known as the Daughters of St. Mary of Providence, or the Schoenstatt Shrine, also in Sleepy Eye connected to the Schoenstatt
Sisters of Mary, or in New Ulm at the chapel that is in the Convent of the Handmaids of the Heart of Jesus.
Church law allows for other times when the bishop of a diocese can give permission for the Holy Eucharist to be kept, and it is up to the bishop to make sure that if such permission is given, the Holy Eucharist is protected and cared for appropriately, and that it is to be “renewed” regularly (i.e., “changed out”).
The next canon makes it clear where/how the Eucharist cannot be kept:
Can. 935 No one is permitted to keep the Eucharist on one’s person or to carry it around unless pastoral necessity urges it and the prescripts of the diocesan bishop are observed.
The only time a person is to have custody of the Holy Eucharist is when he/she is taking it to someone who is not able to come to Mass to receive the Host in the parish Church. When transporting the Holy Eucharist, the correct and dignified receptacle is a pyx and the case that holds the pyx.
(There is never to be a time when a Host in a pyx should be left in a
Election 2024: Voting with a Catholic conscience
The 2024 election will determine not only our next president but also numerous legislators at the local, state and federal levels. As Minnesotans prepare to vote, we as Catholics are called to do so with a focus on human dignity, recognizing that every person is made in the image and likeness of God. This fundamental belief is central to how we engage in public life, including how we vote. Catholics should approach the upcoming election with this in mind, using the Church’s teachings as a guide to form their conscience and inform their vote at the ballot box.
To help Catholics prepare to vote, the Minnesota Catholic
Conference (MCC) has created a collection of resources, including specific information on Catholic Social Teaching, faithful citizenship, human dignity and political guidelines for parishes. These resources, designed to guide and inform voters, can be found at mncatholic.org/election2024.
Catholic Social Teaching
Catholic Social Teaching offers a framework for how to build a just society that promotes human flourishing. CST reflects the Gospel’s call to love our neighbor and uphold the dignity of every human person. The principles give Catholics the tools to live out our personal call to holiness despite the challenges of modern society
and to share the truths of the faith.
When voting, it’s essential to reflect on the Catholic Social Teaching framework. It is often said that Catholics are politically homeless, as no candidate or party perfectly embodies all of the Church’s teachings. But by prioritizing issues that most directly affect human dignity and the common good, we can allow our faith to inform our vote.
Faithful Citizenship
To help form our conscience, Catholics should turn to the USCCB’s Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship as an evergreen resource to guide decisions. This does not prescribe specific votes but instead provides a foundation for forming one’s conscience. The Catechism of the Catholic Church reminds us that our conscience must be informed and moral judgment enlightened (CCC 1783). This formation is crucial, as it helps us prioritize the principles of life, dignity and the common good in our voting
car or on a table for any period of time between receiving the Host and taking it to the homebound person.)
Parish priests have a special obligation to always be aware of who the “homebound” of their parish are, and who is bringing them Holy Communion, as well as that the appropriate prayers are being said in connection with bringing Communion to the sick that are prescribed by the Church for this purpose.
Ultimately, this topic is about giving due protection and proper respect to the Holy Eucharist, recognizing that the Blessed Sacrament is such a great (spiritual) treasure of the Church and should be treated as such.
Next Issue: What is the difference between the Catholic Church and the Orthodox Church? They seem to believe in the exact same things.
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. If you have a question, email The Prairie Catholic at cclancy@dnu.org.
decisions.
Human Dignity
In April 2024, the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith released Dignitatis Infinita, a Declaration on Human Dignity, and MCC distilled that into a resource for all Minnesota Catholics called On Human Dignity. This important summary offers valuable insights into how contemporary issues — such as abortion, war, poverty, assisted suicide and gender — relate to the concept of human dignity. We urge Catholics to study this declaration and apply its teachings as they evaluate candidates and issues on the ballot.
Parish guidelines for political activity
As Catholics, we must never be afraid of bringing our faith into the public square. However, because the Church is not a political entity, we must make sure that our individual advocacy efforts are kept distinct from the Church’s teaching voice. Our guidelines for
parish and church organization political activity clearly lay out which activities are prohibited and which are permissible.
Ultimately, voting is an expression of love — love for God, love for neighbor and love for the world we inhabit. By casting our ballots with a well-formed conscience, we participate in the civic life of our community in a way that reflects our deepest values and hopes for society.
We are called to be salt and light in the world (see Matthew 5:13-16). Voting with a Catholic conscience is one way we can bring the light of Christ into the public square, working toward a society that respects life, promotes justice and upholds human dignity.
Stay up to date on issues
Be informed on important legislative issues affecting the state of Minnesota. Join the Catholic Advocacy Network at www.MNCatholic.org/join.
by the Minnesota Catholic Conference
The public policy voice of the Catholic Church in Minnesota.
social concerns
Gehrke of New Ulm one of 37 nominees for Lumen Christi Award
NEW ULM – Each year, the Catholic Extension Society asks mission dioceses in the United States to nominate individuals or groups for the organization’s annual Lumen Christi Award.
Latin for the ‘Light of Christ,’ the Lumen Christi Award is the highest honor bestowed on those who, according to the organization’s website, ‘radiate and reveal the light of Christ present in the communities where they serve.’ This light of Christ symbolizes the spiritual guidance and selfless service that the recipients provide to their communities, reflecting the core values of the Catholic faith.
Since the award’s inception in 1978, annually, recipients are selected from a pool of nominees who are recognized for their incredible missionary work and service. The selection involves thoroughly reviewing the nominees’ contributions, their impact on the community, and their alignment with the values of the Catholic faith.
This year’s Lumen Christi Award nominee from the Diocese of
New Ulm is Steve Gehrke of New Ulm. Gehrke is being recognized for his work with Heart to Home Furnishings, a non-profit that provides furniture and household supplies to people in need. As a nominee, Gehrke receives $1,000 to support his ministry.
Gehrke’s story
While watching an episode of the TV series “MASH,” Steve Gehrke was struck by a line the character Chaplain Father Mulcahy uses in a homily: “We’re not put here for a pat on the back. God has put us here so that he could be here himself, through the people he created in his image.”
At the time, Gehrke thought he had retired. But Father Mulcahy’s words inspired him to take on a new job.
Gehrke recognized a need in his local community of New Ulm and the surrounding areas to provide basic home furnishings and household items for struggling families. Recruiting his friend Dick Embacher, also of New Ulm, they began collecting used, good-quality furniture and beds;
some donated by individuals, some they purchased at garage sales, and others donated by local furniture stores. As word spread and referrals from the Brown County Human Services and other local organizations started coming in, the two used Gehrke’s truck and trailer to pick up and deliver items. Eventually, they out-grew the garage that stored the
Being Christ’s light in moments of darkness
by Tami Behnke
This month of September is designated as Suicide Prevention Awareness Month and October is Mental Health Awareness. As Catholics, we are called to protect and cherish the sanctity of life and provide comfort and hope to those who struggle.
Mental health issues and suicide remain significant public health concerns. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), suicide is one of the leading causes of death in the United States, affecting people of all ages, backgrounds, and beliefs. This alarming trend necessitates our immediate and urgent attention and response, grounded in the compassion and love exemplified by Christ.
The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) has launched a National Catholic Mental Health Campaign to address mental health challenges within our communities. During October, the bishops ask that we focus on promoting mental health awareness, reducing stigma, and supporting those affected by mental illness.
The bishops encourage participation in the Novena for Mental Health from Oct.10-18, 2024, inviting the faithful to pray for those struggling with mental health issues and for the Church’s mission to provide compassionate care and support. Each day of the novena focuses on different aspects of mental health, such as addressing stigma, enhancing social relationships, and considering the impacts of racism and poverty. Visit www.usccb.org/ mental-health-novena
Adult mental health and suicide prevention
Adults face numerous stressors, including mental health challenges, financial pressures, and relational difficulties. As a faith community, we have the power to offer significant support by:
1. Creating safe spaces for conversation: encourage open dialogues within our parishes and communities where individuals feel safe to share their struggles without judgment. Prayer groups, support circles, and pastoral counseling can provide muchneeded outlets for those in need.
2. Promote mental health resources: awareness and education are vital. Share
information about local mental health services, counseling options, and crisis intervention programs.
3. Spiritual support and guidance: regular spiritual guidance through confession, Eucharistic adoration, and prayer can be a lifeline for those struggling. Encourage people to seek comfort in the sacraments and the teachings of the Church.
Youth mental health and suicide prevention
Youth today face unprecedented challenges, including social media pressures, academic stress, and bullying. The USCCB has identified key areas to focus on when addressing youth mental health and suicidal behavior:
1. Fostering a supportive environment: ensure youth feel seen, heard, and valued. Engage in active listening and validate their feelings. Our schools, youth groups, and families should be places where young people feel safe to express their emotions.
2. Educating on the warning signs: parents, teachers, and peers should be aware of the signs of suicidal ideation, such as withdrawal, changes in behavior, and verbal cues. Early detection and proactive
and deliveries. Some clean and recycle pillows and bedding for mattresses. Referrals come from many local agencies, such as Brown County Human Services, First Choice Pregnancy Services, or area churches, to name a few. Last year alone, the nonprofit served approximately 137 families, significantly impacting the community.
Gehrke’s dedication and care for those in need are truly inspiring. He still uses his truck and trailer to pick up and deliver items, logging roughly 15,000 miles to date. Gehrke’s labor is a beacon of hope that can inspire us all to make a difference in our communities.
items and rented a large storage facility – enter Heart to Home Furnishings.
Heart to Home Furnishings has served the Brown County area for ten years, bringing hope and comfort to those in need. More than 40 volunteers now work alongside Gehrke and Embacher, helping to schedule pickups
intervention can save lives.
3. Providing access to help: make information readily available about mental health resources, including school counselors, youth ministers, and mental health hotlines. Emphasize that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Where to turn in crisis
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides 24/7, free, and confidential support for people in distress, as well as prevention and crisis resources for loved ones. The Lifeline can be reached at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or through their website at suicidepreventionlifeline.org. Additionally, the Crisis Text Line offers support by texting HELLO to 741741. For youth specifically, the USCCB’s website on youth suicidal behavior provides valuable resources and guidance: usccb.org/youth-suicidalbehavior.
Beacons of hope
Our Catholic faith teaches us the intrinsic value of every human life. We are called to be beacons of Christ’s
Editor’s note: Sister Lisa Maurer, formerly of Sleepy Eye, now serving in the Diocese of Duluth, has been selected as a Lumen Christi Award “finalist.” As a finalist, she receives $10,000 to enhance her ministry. If chosen as the 2024 recipient, she will receive $25,000. To read about all the award nominees and finalists, visit the Catholic Extension website, www.catholicextension.org/whatwe-do/lumen-christi-award/.
light in moments of darkness. The Catechism of the Catholic Church reminds us that we must care for the sick and suffering: “Those whose lives are diminished or weakened deserve special respect” (CCC 2276).
Let us all commit to being instruments of God’s mercy and love. Reach out to those who may be struggling, offer a listening ear, and pray for those who feel lost. By fostering a community of compassion, we can help prevent the tragedy of suicide and affirm the dignity of every life.
For more resources and information, visit the National Catholic Mental Health Campaign at usccb.org/mentalhealth.
Tami Behnke MS LPCC, is the director of Catholic Charities and Social Concerns for the Diocese of New Ulm, marshtami@dnu.org.
Lumen Christi Award nominee Steve Gehrke, left, and Dick Embacher have been delivering household furnishings to those in need for the past ten years. (Photo by Christine Clancy)
“Bringing the face of Christ to others” Monsignor Lozinski marks 30 years of serving the New Ulm DCCW as spiritual advisor
by Katie Roiger Prairie Catholic correspondent
NEW ULM – Catholic priests are no strangers to Jesus’ call to a life of radical service. Monsignor Eugene Lozinski took that call even further, beginning in 1994 when he accepted the role of spiritual advisor to the New Ulm Diocesan Council of Catholic Women (NUDCCW).
“I’m just going one year at a time,” said Monsignor Lozinski, who marks this year his 30th anniversary serving as a their spiritual advisor. “I find so much fulfillment in it.”
Although Monsignor Lozinski has served the Council of Catholic Women (CCW) in many capacities, including acting as national chair of the CCW spiritual advisors from 2005–2007, his overall duties have remained consistent. His primary goal is to help the women of the Church to deepen their faith.
“Mainly, my task is to try to inspire them spiritually to grow in their relationship with Christ and to always keep Christ in the center of everything,” he said. This includes being the diocesan CCW’s go-to resource for information about the Church's current cultural concerns and advising the members on how
Ask Fr. Mike
to bring the faith to the modern world.
“[Monsignor Lozinski] has always encouraged CCW Councils to be faith-filled – they’re not just the ‘coffee and cookie’ people in the parish,” said the monsignor’s sister Donna Sanders, who served on the CCW’s national nominating committee during the same years that her brother was the organization’s national chair.
“He has a positive outlook and he tries to keep the board informed and abreast of things happening in the Church and culture. He’s tried to encourage programs that will help women grow in their faith journeys.”
Monsignor Lozinski’s commitment to the CCW’s collective spiritual well-being has included attending every national convention that has been held since he became a spiritual advisor, as well as sitting on the national board. On the local level, he has assisted in conducting informal mini-retreats at the CCW’s annual August meetings and helping to add holy hours and opportunities for the sacrament of Penance. When invited to talk at CCW events, he said he takes inspiration from women saints. St. Josephine Bakhita, St. Katherine Drexel, St. Frances Cabrini, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, and St.
(continued from page 7.)
are many times when the voice we are hearing in our lives sounds an awful lot like people who have not had our best interests at heart. Think about some of the more painful accusations that you hear throughout the day. Many times, these are things that someone once said that stuck with us for some reason. They are often harsh words of accusation that might have had a hint of truth but were mostly destructive. Those words can have power in our lives and we can be tempted to believe them. If the “voice” you are hearing in prayer sounds like those voices from your past, they may not be from God at all.
We can also bring our prayer to trusted counselors in order to ask their assistance in navigating the foggy waters of discernment. When doing this, it is important to remember that we are not
Catherine of Siena are some of his personal favorites.
Like these holy women, Monsignor Lozinski views the CCW as being called to act as leaven in the Church and the world.
“[Women] have become much more visible, much more active in the world of the Church and in service,” Monsignor Lozinski said. “I would say they’re the main impetus behind catechesis: most of our CCD teachers are women. They’ve really stepped forward and advanced in the Church, and I would say that it’s all to the good.”
During his years as a spiritual advisor, Monsignor Lozinski has noticed the power that comes from women serving each other and their communities. By assisting them in their mission, he considers himself furthering an essential function of the body of Christ.
In particular, Monsignor Lozinski references St. John Paul II’s Genius of Women, which celebrates the uniquely feminine role of nurturing as a vital part of the Church.
“I think [women] keep the Church human and keep the perspective that it’s a family,” Monsignor
Lozinski said. “I always go back to the Marian principle that a woman is someone who is open to reception. Women are open to receiving love from God and giving that love to those around them.”
Monsignor Lozinski credits his experience as a CCW spiritual advisor with being enormously influential on his own spiritual formation.
“They help me to be the priest I am,” he said of the CCW’s members. “I think that they’ve formed me in their dedication to the Church, their love for the Church, and their willingness to give and be generous. Laypeople don’t realize how much they affect priests. They become an inspiration to us.”
In the Council of Catholic Women, Monsignor Lozinski said that he recognizes the Christian mission to evangelize, which mirrors his role as priest and spiritual advisor. “The pastor is to be to the parish what the parish is to be to the world,” he said. “The whole reason we do this service is to bring the face of Christ to others.”
approaching these people as gurus but as guides.
Ultimately, the only way to know whether or not a certain impulse or idea or “voice” in prayer is from God is to act on it. We will never truly know what God is asking of us unless we are willing to actually move. We Christians can get pretty cerebral and abstract in our discernment. Sometimes, we just need to get out of our heads and move our feet. And then you may know. You acted, and then realized that that voice guided you well (or vice versa), and now you are better equipped to discern that voice in the future.
Editor’s note: Fr. Michael Schmitz is director of youth and young adult ministry for the Diocese of Duluth and chaplain of the Newman Center at the University of Minnesota Duluth.
Province Conference in Sleepy Eye offers a day filled with faith and fellowship
SLEEPY EYE, Minn. – Over 170 women from Minnesota and North and South Dakota gathered at the Church of St. Mary in Sleepy Eye for the Province of St. Paul and Minneapolis 23rd Biennial Province Conference. Coordinated by the New Ulm Diocesan Council of Catholic Women, the conference offered many opportunities including inspiring speakers, worship, and fellowship. (Photo by Christine Clancy)
This year Monsignor Eugene Lozinski marks 30 years serving the New Ulm DCCW as their spiritual advisor. (Photo by Christy Baker)
New Ulm Council of Catholic Women represented at Eucharistic Congress
by Sharon Illikman NUDCCW president
In July, I had the opportunity to travel with others from the Diocese of New Ulm to the National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis, Ind. It was a beautiful experience and the National Council of Catholic Women’s (NCCW) mission statement fits right along with the Eucharistic Revival: The NCCW acts through its members to support, empower, and educate all Catholic women in spirituality, leadership, and service. NCCW programs respond with Gospel values to the Church’s and society’s needs in the modern world.
Despite our brokenness and imperfections, we are all called to evangelize the Gospel. The Congress was a transformative experience, allowing us to let God work in us and equip us with the tools to enhance and build his Kingdom. It provided us with new knowledge and confidence to joyfully share God’s love. The many Masses, inspiring talks, opportunities for reconciliation, and Eucharistic adoration were catalysts for personal growth
Bishop Chad Zielinski of the Diocese of New Ulm stands beside representatives of the New Ulm Diocesan Council of Catholic Women who traveled to the National Eucharistic Revival Congress in Indianapolis. Pictured are: Dorothy Vandenrisssche, (left) Holy Redeemer, Marshall (former NUDCCW Legislation Committee chair); Sharon Illikman, St. Mary, New Ulm (NUDCCW president); and Jan Noyes, Holy Redeemer, Marshall (2014-2016 NUDCCW president). (Photo submitted)
and transformation, inspiring us to go out as missionaries of the Eucharist.
The Council of Catholic Women here in the Diocese of New Ulm is deeply committed to the Eucharistic Revival, a mission that is crucial for our local community. Our efforts to support,
empower, and educate our sisters and parishes through our deanery gatherings, conventions, and conferences are all part of this important mission. These activities lead to a significant increase in spirituality, leadership, and service among our members, and we should all be proud of our contributions to this cause.
CCW Recognition Sunday October 13
by Christine Clancy, editor
The Prairie Catholic
NEW ULM – Bishop Chad W. Zielinski has declared Sunday, Oct. 13, 2024, as Council of Catholic Women (CCW) Recognition Sunday in the Diocese of New Ulm. This significant day is set aside not only to acknowledge the outstanding accomplishments of the CCW organization, but also to highlight the activities and leadership carried out by Catholic women in the diocese. It’s a testament to their dedication and hard work, a day that shines a spotlight on their invaluable contribution.
The New Ulm Diocesan Council of Catholic Women is a federation of parish women’s organizations within the New Ulm diocese. These parish affiliates are not alone; they are part of a larger, influential community supported by the structure of the National Council of Catholic Women.
Bishop Zielinski signs the Council of Catholic Women Recognition Sunday proclamation designating Oct. 13, 2024, as CCW Recognition Sunday. The bishop is pictured with Monsignor Eugene Lozinski, spiritual advisor of the NUDCCW, Sharon Illikman of New Ulm, NUDCCW president, and Mary Koralewski of Glencoe, Spirituality Commission chairperson. (Photo by Christine Clancy)
The National Council represents millions of women across the country and plays a crucial role in our collective mission, making everyone feel the impact of their efforts. The Council supports, empowers, and educates members in leadership, spirituality, and service.
To learn more about the NUDCCW current initiatives and how to get involved, visit www. nudccw.org.
Year of Mission
A call to action for all Catholics
by Leonard Gutierrez Office of Evangelization
Inthe opening pages of the Year of Mission Playbook, which the National Eucharistic Congress created, Bishop Andrew Cozzens of the Diocese of Crookston, Minn., writes, “I called this the greatest phase of the National Eucharistic Revival because it includes a concrete call to each of us as practicing Catholics to take ownership of Eucharistic renewal of our country.”
This call that we can say ‘yes’ to as practicing Catholics is to “walk with one,” as encouraged by Bishop Cozzens and the National Eucharistic Congress. The early disciples followed the method that Jesus used to evangelize. They preached to the masses, but their efforts were primarily focused on intentionally walking with the few. Each of us can do the same. There are friends, family, co-workers, those in our neighborhoods, or strangers we encounter that we can walk with intentionally.
In its simplest form, evangelization is about letting Jesus love and transform you so much that you want to share what he has done for you and to encounter and love others just as Jesus did for you. It is not about having all the answers or being a perfect speaker. It is about caring enough to share your faith. The early disciples probably felt many of the things you may feel. Yet, they chose to stay close to Jesus and follow him. Little by little, their fears became smaller. Little by little, their excuses dwindled. Little by little, they realized that ‘it is not so much that we need to know how to evangelize’ (that certainly is important) ‘but more so that we need to care to evangelize’ as Fr. Mike Schmitz stated at the recent National Eucharistic Congress.
When we care, evangelization becomes quite simple and easy. We become reliant on Jesus to use us rather than on our own efforts. We are intentional, courageous, and loving as we go out to be the hands and feet of Christ to those we walk with. Are you looking for a place
to begin? Here are two practical tips to start thinking about.
Pray! Pray to grow closer to the Lord. Pray by name consistently for those who have been put in your life, and pray that God will begin to open doors and show you who you can reach out to.
Go! Put yourself out there. Go to those places where the people that God has put before you are. Are they at the parish? Are they at the rec center on certain weeknights? Do they like to hunt or fish? These places should not necessarily mean they are places we want to go to or are the most comfortable environments, but they are opportunities to be with people and show them you care.
By consistently praying and going out to meet people for six months, you will have begun to build trust and God will continue to open doors for your Year of Mission. Remember, you are not alone in this journey. Together, as a community of faith, we can spread the love of Jesus and bring others closer to him. Your efforts, combined with those of your fellow Catholics, will make a significant impact.
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) 2335361.
parish life
St. Raphael in Springfield celebrates 150 year anniversary
by Christine Clancy, editor
The Prairie Catholic
The 150th anniversary of St. Raphael Catholic Church proved to be a momentous occasion in the history of faith and fellowship in the parish community of Springfield.
The celebration, which took place on Saturday, June 22, 2024, was a day brimming with worship, dinner, music, and games – a powerful testament to the enduring faith and strong bonds of its Christian faithful.
New Ulm’s bishop, Chad Zielinski, attended the celebration and was the principal celebrant at the anniversary Mass. His homily reflected on how the past 150 years of unwavering faith and countless sacrifices had brought those gathered to “hear the words of Jesus Christ.”
The bishop referenced a letter penned on Oct. 10, 1973, by Bishop Alphonse J. Schladweiler, the Diocese of New Ulm’s first bishop. The letter was addressed to the faithful of St. Raphael’s parish in recognition of their Centennial Anniversary. Bishop Schladweiler wrote: “This anniversary tells the story of the faith and generosity of the Springfield pioneers whose memory we hold dear today and to whom we owe a debt of gratitude for the sacrifices they made in transmitting the faith to their children.” The former bishop of New Ulm thanked the priests who served over the years and the great influence of the Sisters of St. Francis of Rochester on the success of the school. The letter ended, “With such a history, you can face the future and its problems with undaunted hope.”
“So, 150 years of ‘unwavering faith, countless sacrifices, and undaunted hope’ have once again brought us to gather on June 22, 2024, to hear the words of Jesus Christ,” observed Bishop Zielinski. “The same words that have been proclaimed for years,” he said.
Turning to the day’s Gospel reading, the bishop referenced Jesus’ command to the disciples, ‘Let us cross to the other side.’ “Jesus and the disciples get into a boat,” the bishop said. “Although the disciples had no idea what was about to happen, Jesus was so much at peace trusting and resting
in the presence of his Father.”
The bishop continued, “The winds and waves increased to the point of instilling a life-threatening fear into the disciples’ hearts, ‘Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?’” they ask. “Jesus then commands the wind and waves, ‘Quiet! Be still!’ Then he turns to the disciples, saying, ‘Why are you terrified? Do you not have faith?’”
The bishop explained that this image of the boat is the Church. “It is us gathered today; it is your ancestors who gathered here over the past 150 years with undaunted hope and deep faith that kept them rowing together to get to the other side.”
“You and members of your family have listened to these words of Jesus, the Good Shepherd, and followed his command, ‘Come follow me.’ Jesus has been in this boat, this Church because he wants to be. The Lord is with us!”
In closing, Bishop Zielinski encouraged the faithful gathered to walk through the Springfield parish cemetery and browse through the history books. “Many great women and men of faith stayed in the boat!” the bishop said.
The early years.
St. Raphael church was established in 1874 by dedicated parishioners of primarily Irish and German descent and held a significant place in the Catholic community of Springfield. The early years were led by pioneer priest Fr. Alexander Berghold, who celebrated Mass in the home of parishioners. In 1878, the first church building was completed, and in 1881, Fr. Robert O’Haire became the first resident pastor. His leadership led to the first official sacramental record of the parish being recorded on Dec. 18, 1881, with the baptism of John Whelan and the funeral of Mary McCormick on the same day. The first recorded marriage was of Charles Gamble and Ruth Holmes on Sept. 22, 1882, and Bishop John Ireland confirmed the first Confirmation class of 25 on May 12, 1883.
The current church building was erected in 1915. Several improvements have been made throughout the years, including a gathering space connecting the church and school buildings and a major renovation completed in 2006.
In 1900, a five-room St. Raphael Catholic School was built, and in 1919, a high school was added. The schools were staffed by the Sisters of Saint Francis of Rochester, Minn., and up until 2005, by the School Sisters of Notre Dame, along with the lay staff.
A new school was built in 1939, with an addition in 1964. The first kindergarten class was added in 1990. Currently, St. Raphael School educates students from pre-kindergarten through grade 6.
“The 150th-anniversary celebration was such an uplifting and positive experience in the eyes of parishioners,” said Fr. Jeremy Kucera who has served as pastor of St. Raphael since 2023.
“It was an honor to celebrate such an occasion with the people of St. Raphael’s and to be able to receive some of the richness of God’s gifts poured out upon this area throughout many generations,” Fr. Kucera said.
“Having Bishop Zielinski with us for the celebration was an important reminder for our parish that we are so deeply connected to each other through him – from the Diocese of New Ulm all the way to Rome. For me, that connectivity and visible unity helped make the evening what it was,” Fr. Kucera said.
A warm welcome home was given to Fr. Phil Schotzko by those attending the 150th anniversary celebration. Fr. Schotzko, ordained in 1977, is a native son of the parish. Prior to his retirement in 2020, St. Raphael in Springfield, St. Joseph in Lamberton, and the oratory of St. Joseph, Sanborn were the last parishes Fr. Schotzko served.
a
of all
Bishop Chad Zielinski offered Mass for those gathered for the St. Raphael’s 150th anniversary celebration in June. Concelebrating was Fr. Dennis Labat, (left), former parish pastor, Fr. Jeremy Kucera, (second from right), present pastor, and Fr. Phil Schotzko, former pastor. Assisting was Deacon Barry Reindl. (Photos by Christine Clancy)
The choir,
combination
ages, led the congregation in song during the anniversary Mass. The vocalists were led by Lori Kretsch, choir director and Julie Prechel on the piano.
around the diocese
Matt Maher performs at Awake My Soul, Eucharistic Revival event
by Christy Baker
The Prairie Catholic
NEW ULM – The Eucharistic fire and heart of Jesus’ love were shared this summer with approximately 1,000 Christian faithful at the Awake My Soul event on Saturday, Aug. 3, 2024, at the Civic Center in New Ulm. The gathering was organized by the Holy Cross Area Faith Community (New Ulm, Searles, and West Newton Township) with the hope of renewing interest and understanding of the Real Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist.
Evangelist, author, and biblical scholar Jeff Cavins was slated to keynote the evening. Unfortunately, due to flight delays, his abbreviated presentation was conducted via Zoom from an airport lounge. Cavins is a member of St. Vincent de Paul in Brooklyn Park, Minn., and currently teaches at The Saint Paul Seminary in St. Paul. Many might recognize his name through his contribution to the hit podcast “The Catechism in a Year” with host Fr. Mike Schmitz.
Catholic singer and songwriter
Matt Maher inspired the audience with personal stories and poignant music. Six of Maher’s albums have reached the Top 25 Christian Albums Billboard chart, and several of his singles hit the Top 25 Christian Songs list. He has been nominated for nine Grammy Awards and has won five Dove Awards from the Gospel Music Association.
Eucharistic Adoration and benediction led by New Ulm’s bishop Chad Zielinski followed Maher’s performance. The evening concluded with a powerful call to action leading into the Eucharistic Revival Year three – “Going out on Mission.” The audience was encouraged to go out and invite one person to come and discover the great love of Jesus who waits for them. For through the Eucharist, he fulfils his promise “I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you.” (John 14:18).
To view more photos of the Awake My Soul event, visit the Holy Cross AFC website at https:// www.holycrossafc.org/awake-mysoul-event.
Sisters of Mary Morning
by Christine Clancy, editor
The Prairie Catholic
GHENT, Minn. – The Sisters of Mary Morning Star of Ghent, a religious order whose unwavering commitment to prayer is a beacon of inspiration, spend at least five hours each day in their chapel. This dedication to their spiritual practice resonates with the area’s Christian faithful, who often join them for Mass at noon or pray with them, feeling a deep connection to their shared faith.
Unlike many contemplative groups, the Sisters of Mary Morning Star are a non-cloistered group of religious whose unwavering dedication to prayer is their primary work. Being noncloistered allows them to interact with people outside their convent, located in the Church of St. Eloi rectory and school in Ghent.
In July, New Ulm’s bishop, Chad Zielinski, and former New Ulm bishop John LeVoir concelebrated a Mass of Celebration in recognition of the 10th anniversary since the religious order officially made its home in the diocese.
During the reception that followed
Star mark a decade in diocese
the Mass, Bishop LeVoir, who played a significant role in bringing the religious order to Ghent, acknowledged the sisters’ importance to the diocese as a powerhouse of prayer and highlighted the substantial impact they have on the local community in Ghent. “Take care of them. Learn from them. They will teach you how to love Jesus Christ,” the bishop said, emphasizing the sisters’ invaluable contribution to the community.
In return, Bishop Zielinski expressed his gratitude for Bishop LeVoir. He thanked him for bringing the Sisters of Mary Morning Star to the diocese and for his years of spiritual direction, mentoring, and celebrating the sacraments for the sisters. He also thanked the sisters for their ongoing witness to God and the labor of love they bring to the Ghent community and the diocese.
A highlight of the celebration was a video reviewing all the changes that have been made to the old school and rectory over the years since the sisters arrived. The dedicated teamwork of area residents and the sisters led to the
The celebration was an opportunity to give a fond farewell to the religious order’s former superior, Sr. Aude, and a warm welcome to the new superior Sr. Teresa Marie. Pictured l-r, front row, Sr. Alix Beata, Sr. Estelle, Anna, Sr. Aude, Sr. Ann Magdalene, Sr. Grace Anne; second row: Bishop Emeritus John LeVoir, Sr. Teresa Marie, Sr. Clare Samuel, Sr. Ines, Sr. Marie Johannah, Sr. Veronica, and Bishop Chad Zielinski. (Photo by Christy Baker)
transformation of almost the entire school building. Originally the building was used as a community group meeting space. It now includes a chapel and quarters for visiting priests and other guests, a testament to the community’s involvement and the sisters’ commitment.
In addition to prayer and worship, the sisters spend time in study and
doing manual work. In the leather shop, they make belts and sandals for their personal use. They also make other leather goods, such as bible covers, to sell.
In the sewing workshop, clothes are made for all the sisters, while in the candle workshop, they recycle old Easter candles from local parishes into new altar candles and Easter candles.
The sisters make and sell soy candles for everyday use to help support the convent. Sales of their craftwork which also includes carpentry, shoemaking, pottery, bee-keeping, calligraphy, cardmaking, book-binding, jammaking, vegetable gardening, and liturgical ornaments, help financially support the religious community. However, according to the sisters, more than craftwork is needed to supply the religious order’s essentials. They rely on divine providence and the goodness of others, including the area community and members of St. Eloi parish, to help support their day-to-day needs.
In the United States, the Sisters of Mary Morning Star communities are also located in Wisconsin and Texas. Their global presence spans to Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia, allowing them to “spread their message of love and service to diverse communities” as their website states.
To learn more visit www. sistersofmarymorningstar.org/ ghent.
Matt Maher performs at the Awake My Soul event on August 3 in New Ulm.
The north ice hockey rink without ice at the New Ulm Convention Center was filled with participants during the Awake My Soul summer event. (Photos by Christy Baker)
Following Eucharistic adoration, Benediction with the Blessed Sacrament was offered.
CNA – In June, top medical groups and physicians signed a “Doctors Protecting Children” declaration that expresses “serious concerns” about the treatment of minors who are uncomfortable with their biological sex.
Jill Simons, the executive director of the American College of Pediatricians, speaking with EWTN News Nightly said the medical group has been “sounding the alarm” after the recently leaked files from the World Professional Association of Transgender Health in which transgender advocates admitted that children who receive permanently life-changing
transgender procedures are too young to be capable of giving informed consent.
Also raising alarm bells has been the release of England’s Cass Review, which found no comprehensive evidence to support the routine prescription of transgender drugs to minors with gender dysphoria. Those revelations “had the overwhelming evidence that these so-called gender-affirming care treatments should not continue,” Simons said.
“We thought that our colleagues here in the U.S. would take heed and also do the same and put a
pause, [but] they’ve continued,” Simons said. “We just came together as a coalition of medical doctors, organizations, and said, ‘Enough.’”
Eighteen health policy and medical organizations have co-signed the “Doctors Protecting Children” declaration, including the Catholic Medical Association (CMA), along with close to 100 doctors and health leaders.
The declaration affirms that sex is an “innate trait” that “is not altered by drugs or surgical interventions.” It critiques gender ideology for not being based on “the reality of these innate sex differences,” and it further clarifies that medical decisions should “respect biological reality and the dignity of the person.”
“I think a lot of people either are afraid or are just not paying attention, and this declaration is to get the message out there loud and clear,” Simons said. “I remain very optimistic that this is going to turn around.”
Fr. Roger Landry, a priest who recently spent 65 days on the road with the Blessed Sacrament during a national Eucharistic pilgrimage, has been
tapped to head the papal missions in the U.S. and is ready to help missionaries near and far “bring God to the ends of the earth” through the Eucharist.
On Sept. 5, the Pontifical Mission Societies USA announced that Fr. Landry was named the new national director, effective in January.
A priest of the Diocese of Fall River, Massachusetts, Fr. Landry is currently the Catholic chaplain at Columbia University, a papal Missionary of Mercy and one of the key organizers of, as well as a participant in, the 65-day National Eucharistic Pilgrimage that preceded the 10th National Eucharistic Congress in July.
The societies’ worldwide network, which operates at the service of the pope, consists of four mission societies designated as pontifical by Pope Pius XI in 1922. The Society of the Propagation of the Faith supports the evangelization efforts of the local church; the Missionary Childhood Association educates children about their role in the church’s missionary outreach; the Society of St. Peter the Apostle trains the next generation of missionary clergy and consecrated religious; and the Missionary Union of priests and religious focuses on forming clergy, religious and pastoral leaders more deeply in their role as evangelizers.
