The Courier - September 2020

The

COURIER

St. Matthew September 21

In God's Time September 2020

Official Newspaper of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Winona-Rochester, MN | dowr.org

11 Men Ordained at Last to the Permanent Diaconate

L to R: (front row) Deacon Scott Schwalbe, Deacon Frank Cesario, Deacon Scot Berkley, Bishop John M. Quinn, Deacon Michael Zaccariello, Deacon Randy Horlocker, (back row) Deacon Kevin Aaker, Deacon Steven Landsteiner, Deacon John LaValla, Deacon Robert Miller, Deacon Terrence Smith, Deacon William Keiper

WINONA - On Sunday, August 23, 2020, at the Basilica of St. Stanislaus Kostka in Winona, Bishop John M. Quinn ordained 11 men to the permanent diaconate, after multiple reschedulings for reasons including COVID-19 restrictions. The ordination had last been scheduled for May 2 at the Co-Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist.

"Dear brothers, I want to thank you for your patience," Bishop Quinn told the deacons-elect during his homily. "I

thank you for your graciousness. ...You faced it all with that wonderful sense of kairos - in God's time. All things happen, not on a calendar; they happen because of God's grace and God's providence. So, that expression I'm sure you'll never forget is, 'Better late than never!' And even though it was late, it's the fullness of God's time."

God's Time, cont'd on pg. 4

We Will Get Through This

By ANDREW BRANNON

�n times of uncertainty, it is easy to lose

the clarity of what Jesus commanded us to do: “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age” (Matthew 28: 19-20).

Early on, the COVID-19 crisis deflected our focus from our mission as Catholics. The public celebration of Mass was suspended, and our schools and faith formation classes switched to distance learning. Even the celebration of sacraments such as First Communion, Confirmation and diaconate ordinations were postponed. In the interest of public health, our nation’s bishops responded to this crisis with numerous safety measures.

As we navigated the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the change to our daily activity caused each of us to question how we would get through this crisis. How long will it last? What does this mean for our families, our churches, our towns, cities, and our country?

As the chief financial officer of the diocese, the number one question I

Get Through, cont'd on pg. 4

INSIDE this issue

Staying Afloat: Praying in Crisis page 5

Meet Our New Seminarians page 8

Footwashers and Firestarters page 12

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Pope: Put Forgiveness and Mercy at the Heart of Your Life

Articles of Interest

Staying Afloat: Praying in Crisis______________5 ...Serious Political Implications______________6

The Courier Insider

Christian Initiation and COVID-19...____________7 Meet Our New Seminarians________________8 Journeying Toward Priesthood...___________10 Thank You Donors!...______________________11 Footwashers and Firestarters______________12 ...The Priest Who Wasn't Baptized_________13

VATICAN CITY, Sept. 13, 2020 (CNA) - We cannot demand God’s forgiveness for ourselves unless we are prepared to forgive our neighbors, Pope Francis said in his Angelus address Sunday.

Speaking from a window overlooking St. Peter’s Square Sept. 13, the pope said: “If we do not strive to forgive and to love, we will not be forgiven and loved either.”

In his address, the pope reflected on the day’s Gospel reading (Matthew 18:21-35), in which the Apostle Peter asked Jesus how many times he was required to forgive his brother.

Jesus replied that it was necessary to forgive “not seven times but seventy-seven times,” before telling a story known as the Parable of the Unforgiving Servant.

Pope Francis noted that in the parable the servant owed a vast sum to his master. The master forgave the servant’s debt, but the man did not, in turn, forgive the debt of another servant who owed him only a small amount.

“In the parable, we find two different attitudes: that of God -- represented by the king -- who forgives so much, because God always forgives, and that of man. In the divine attitude, justice is pervaded by mercy, whereas the human attitude is limited to justice,” he said.

He explained that when Jesus said we must forgive “seventy-seven times” he meant, in biblical language, to forgive always.

“How much suffering, how many lacerations, how many wars could be avoided, if forgiveness and mercy were the style of our life,” the pope said.

“It is necessary to apply merciful love to all human relationships: between spouses, between parents and children, within our com-

munities, in the Church, and also in society and politics.”

Pope Francis added that he had been struck by a phrase from the day’s first reading (Sirach 27:33-28:9), “Remember your last days and set enmity aside.”

“Think of the end! Think that you will be in a casket… and will you take the hate there?

Think about the end, stop hating! Stop the resentment,” he said.

He compared resentment to an annoying fly that keeps buzzing around a person.

“To forgive is not only a momentary thing, it is a continuous thing against this resentment, this hatred that returns. Let’s think about the end, let’s stop hating,” the pope said.

He suggested that the Parable of the Unforgiving Servant could shed light on the phrase in the Lord’s Prayer, “And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.”

“These words contain a decisive truth. We cannot demand God’s forgiveness for ourselves if we in turn do not grant forgiveness to our neighbor,” he said.

After reciting the Angelus, the pope expressed his sorrow at a fire that broke out Sept. 8 at Europe’s largest refugee camp, leaving 13,000 people without shelter.

He recalled a visit that he made to the camp on the Greek island of Lesbos in 2016, with Bartholomew I, the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople, and Ieronymos II, Archbishop of Athens and all Greece. In a joint declaration, they had committed themselves to ensuring that migrants, refugees and asylum-seekers receive “a humane reception in Europe.”

Forgiveness, cont'd on pg. 4

The Courier is the official publication of the Diocese of Winona-Rochester 55 West Sanborn, P.O. Box 588, Winona, MN 55987 Vol 111 - 9

Most Reverend John M. Quinn, Publisher Matt Willkom, Editor Nick Reller, Associate Editor Telephone: 507-858-1257 Fax:507-454-8106 E-mail: nreller@dowr.org Publishing Schedule: Monthly - Deadline for advertising & articles is the 10th of the month prior.

(ISSN 0744-5490) September 2020 w The Courier w dowr.org

What's a Good Catholic Voter to Do?_______14 Diocesan Headlines_______________________15

The Holy Father's Intention for

September 2020 Respect for the Planet's Resources We pray that the planet's resources will not be plundered, but shared in a just and respectful manner.

Officials The Most Rev. John M. Quinn, Bishop of the Diocese of Winona-Rochester, announces the following appointments: Dean Very Rev. Thomas Loomis: reappointed Dean of the Rochester Deanery, effective September 1, 2020.

Where to Find the Courier

Note: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, hard copies of the Courier are currently not available in our churches.

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Hard copies of the Courier are available in the churches of the Diocese of Winona-Rochester at the first weekend Masses of each month.

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An online version may be viewed at www.dowr.org/offices/ courier/index.html

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To be added to the home delivery list, readers should send their names and addresses to:

Loyola Catholic Schools Ms. Jennifer Fraze: reappointed to a three-year term on the Loyola Catholic Schools Board of Trustees, effective July 22, 2020, through June 30, 2023.

Mr. Gary Zellmer: reappointed to a three-year term on the Loyola Catholic Schools Board of Trustees, effective July 22, 2020, through June 30, 2023.

Child Abuse Policy Information The Diocese of Winona-Rochester will provide a prompt, appropriate and compassionate response to reporters of sexual abuse of a child by any diocesan agent (employees, volunteers, vendors, religious or clergy). Anyone wishing to make a report of an allegation of sexual abuse should call the Victim Assistance Coordinator at 507454-2270, Extension 255. A caller will be asked to provide his or her name and telephone number. Individuals are also encouraged to take their reports directly to civil authorities. The Diocese of Winona-Rochester is committed to protecting children, young people and other vulnerable people in our schools, parishes and ministries. The diocesan policy is available on the diocesan web site at www.dow. org under the Safe Environment Program. If you have any questions about the Diocese of Winona-Rochester’s implementation of the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People, please contact Mary Hamann at 507-858-1244, or mhamann@dowr.org.

Diocese of Winona-Rochester The Courier 55 W Sanborn St. Winona, MN 55987 or nreller@dowr.org

Hear the Lord's Call ear Friends in Christ, Vocations

As a bishop, it is a great joy to see young people respond to the call of the Triune God and say “yes” to giving their lives completely to Him as priests or religious. Marriage is a beautiful vocation, raised to the dignity of a sacrament, and it is an image of Christ’s love for His bride, the Church. In consecrated life, however, we see the love of Christ and His Church which human marriage foreshadows. At his ordination, a priest is changed at the very core of his being to be configured to Jesus Christ the great High Priest. He stands in the place of Christ the bridegroom, especially in the sacraments, and lays down his life in service to the Church. Those in consecrated life, especially consecrated virgins and religious sisters, are an image of the Church, the bride of Christ, by how they dedicate their lives

Rejoice in Hope Bishop John M. Quinn Bishop's Calendar

World Day of Migrants and Refugees

In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus makes it clear that we have an obligation to care for our brothers

September 1, Tuesday 12 p.m. - National Society of St. Vincent de Paul Board Meeting via Zoom 1 p.m. - Holy Hour 2 p.m. - Presbyteral Council Meeting via Zoom September 2, Wednesday 7 p.m. - Confirmation - St. Mary’s, Caledonia September 4, Friday 8 a.m. - Teach at SMU 11 a.m. - COVID-19 Task Force Meeting

September 5, Saturday 5:15 p.m. - Confirmation - Sacred Heart, Waseca September 6, Sunday 10 a.m. - Mass and Installation of Pastor, Fr. Thẽ Hoàng - Sacred Heart, Waseca September 8, Tuesday 9 a.m. - Bless Classrooms - Cotter Schools, Winona 5:15 p.m. - Rededication of the Diocese of Winona-Rochester to the Immaculate Heart of Mary - Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, Winona

and sisters in need. In the parable of the sheep and the goats, He tells those who inherit the Kingdom of Heaven that, “I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, a stranger and you welcomed me, naked and you clothed me, ill and you cared for me, in prison and you visited me” (Matthew 25:35-36). When the righteous ask Him when it was that they did these things, He reveals that, “whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me” (Matthew 25:40).

The World Day of Migrants and Refugees draws attention to the plight of migrants and refugees throughout the world.

These men, women, and families experience great hardships, struggles, and oftentimes threats against their lives, which force them to leave their homes. Many times they leave with no more than the clothes on their backs, and do not have any hope of returning to their place of origin.

They must rely on the goodwill of strangers for food, clothing, and shelter, and must rebuild their lives in a new place, oftentimes facing language barriers, lack of financial resources, and a culture very different than their own.

The World Day of Migrants and Refugees, now also the date of Immigration Sunday Minnesota (previously held on Epiphany Sunday in January), provides us with the opportunity to examine how we view and help those who are migrants and refugees. Do we pray and have compassion for those fleeing their homeland in order to escape war, famine, or violence? Or do we dismiss them as a problem to be solved, an issue far removed from our daily life?

When we see pictures of migrants crossing the Mediterranean Sea, it’s easy to argue that they should be sent back. However, do we pause to consider that they too would like to return home, but are risking their lives in order to run from extreme economic hardships, violence, and war?

September 9, Wednesday 10 a.m. - Open Wide Our Hearts Webinar on Racism 1:30 p.m. - Minnesota Catholic Conference Board of Directors Meeting via Zoom September 10, Thursday 9:30 a.m. - Holy Hour 10:30 a.m. - College of Consultors Board Meeting September 11, Friday 8 a.m. - Teach at SMU 11 a.m. - COVID-19 Task Force Meeting 6 p.m. - Confirmation - Ss. Peter & Paul, Mankato September 12, Saturday 9 a.m. - Lauds & Mass of the Holy Spirit - IHM Seminary, Winona 5 p.m. - Mass and Bishop's Medal - St. John Baptist de la Salle, Dodge Center September 13, Sunday 2 p.m. - Diocesan Marriage Anniversary Mass Holy Spirit, Rochester September 15, Tuesday 11 a.m. - Holy Hour

It is important to not only pray for migrants and refugees, but also prayerfully ask the Lord how we can provide them with assistance. Perhaps you can get involved with the Catholic Charities refugee resettlement program, or befriend the migrant workers who are often part of our parishes. There are also many local, national, and international organizations, such as Aid to the Church in Need, that provide assistance to those who have fled their homes. We are called and obliged to serve our brothers and sisters in need, and this World Day of Migrants and Refugees provides an opportunity for us to reflect on how we might do this in our own lives.

Guidebook for Reporting Abuse

In February 2019, the presidents of the world’s bishops’ conferences gathered in Rome, to discuss Protection of Minors in the Church. At the conclusion of the four-day summit, Pope Francis expressed his intention to create a handbook for handling cases of sexual abuse of minors by deacons, priests, or bishops. Given that the norms for investigating such cases are complex and are found throughout several documents, this manual provides clear, step-by-step instructions on how to navigate the process of receiving and investigating reports of abuse.

This Vademecum, or handbook, was released in July, as Version 1.0. It will be updated as pertinent law and norms change, and as new questions arise in the handling of cases of abuse.

This guidebook does not present any new laws or procedures, but is a tool for bishops, canon lawyers, and all those involved with handling accusations, investigations, and conclusions of cases regarding sexual abuse of minors by clerics.

It is my sincere hope that

12 p.m. - Deans Meeting 3 p.m. - Clergy Personnel Board Meeting

September 17, Thursday 10:31 a.m. - Guest Speaker via telephone - Real Presence Catholic Radio 1 p.m. - Holy Hour 2 p.m. - Bishop’s Cabinet Meeting 4 p.m. - MN Bishops Meeting via Zoom September 18, Friday 8 a.m. - Teach at SMU 11 a.m. - COVID-19 Task Force Meeting September 20, Sunday 9 a.m. - Confirmation – St. Mary, Worthington 11 a.m. - Spanish Mass - St. Mary, Worthington September 22, Tuesday 11 a.m. - St. Paul Street Evangelization - St. Mary's University, Winona September 23, Wednesday 12 p.m. - Opening Mass for FOCUS Regional Gathering - Mankato 7 p.m. Confirmation - Ss. Peter & Paul, Blue Earth

as our Church strives to correct and heal from the mistakes of the past, we can make sure that reports of abuse are taken seriously, and that the proper protocols are followed. The recently published guidebook is another step toward accountability and transparency, and will aid bishops, religious superiors, and all involved with cases of abuse of minors in the Church, both now and for years to come.

3 From the Bishop

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completely to Christ and service of His Church, proclaiming by their witness that Christ is enough for them and fulfills all of their desires. Priests and consecrated men and women remind us of the life we are to live in heaven, where there is no marrying or giving in marriage.

Last month, I was privileged to attend the profession of vows for two religious communities, the Sisters of St. Francis of the Martyr St. George and the Religious Sisters of Mercy of Alma, MI. One of the women making first vows with the Sisters of St. Francis of the Martyr St. George, Sr. Peter Marie Tran, is a native of the Diocese of Winona-Rochester.

All five of the Religious Sisters of Mercy who made final vows – Sr. Mary Rafqa Boulos, Sr. Mary Elisha Glady, Sr. Marie Josepha Kluczny, Sr. Maliya Suen, and Sr. Marie Faustina Wolniakowski – are either originally from, or have been previously assigned to, this diocese. It was a joy to see the women of these two communities make vows to serve the Lord in poverty, chastity, and obedience.

Here in the Diocese of Winona-Rochester, three of our diocesan seminarians were recently installed as acolytes or lectors. These ministries are steps on the road to the priesthood, and allow these men to officially serve in these capacities at Mass.

The three seminarians – Mitchell Logeais and Michael Churchill as acolytes and Matthew Koestler as lector – are now continuing their studies at Sacred Heart Major Seminary in Detroit. Please keep them in your prayers as they continue on their formational journey, and pray for an increase in vocations to the priesthood and consecrated life, that young men and women may hear the Lord’s call and respond to it generously.

October: Respect Life Month

In the U.S., October is celebrated as Respect Life Month, a time when we are reminded of the dignity of every human life, from conception to natural death.

In our world today, there are many threats to the dignity of human life, from abortion and embryonic stem-cell research to physician-assisted suicide and the death penalty. I encourage you to take the month of October to learn more about what the Church teaches in regards to the many areas relating to respect for human life. Pray, and consider how you can work for an end to abortion and the many other practices that violate and undermine the sanctity of human life. You can find resources at your parish, and through the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Respect Life page, www.respectlife.org.

Sincerely in Christ,

Most Rev. John M. Quinn Bishop of Winona-Rochester

September 25, Friday 8 a.m. - Teach at SMU September 26, Saturday 5 p.m. - Confirmation and Installation of Pastor, Fr. Brian Mulligan - St. Ann, Janesville September 27, Sunday 2 p.m. - Confirmation - St. Adrian, Adrian; with the parishes of St. Leo, Pipestone; St. Catherine, Luverne; St. Anthony, Lismore; and Our Lady of Good Counsel, Wilmont

September 29, Tuesday 6:30 a.m. - Lauds & Mass - IHM Seminary, Winona 2:30 p.m. - Holy Half Hour 3 p.m. - DOW-R Civil Corporation Board Meeting October 1, Thursday 1 p.m. - Holy Hour 2 p.m. - Bishop's Cabinet Meeting October 2, Friday 8 a.m. - Teach at SMU 10:30 a.m. - Meetings with Seminarians - IHM Seminary, Winona 7 p.m. - Confirmation - Pax Christi, Rochester September 2020 w The Courier w dowr.org

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Get Through, cont'd from pg. 1

received was, “With this pause in church life, how are our parishes, our pastors and our lay employees going to financially survive?”

I’m happy to report that, through your personal generosity, our parishes are surviving and in many new ways, even thriving. To put things in perspective, your support through parish offertory giving has been uplifting, given the situation that we now face. In comparing parish giving between 2019 and 2020 for the months since COVID-19 hit, support in March and April dropped approximately 20%. This was not unexpected, since those were the months

Forgiveness, cont'd from pg. 2

“I express solidarity and closeness to all the victims of these dramatic events,” he said.

The pope then noted that protests had broken out in various countries in recent months amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Without mentioning any nations by name, he said: “While I urge the demonstrators to present their demands peacefully, without giving in to the

God's Time,

that Mass was suspended. In time, parishes that did not offer online giving began to put that choice in place. By May, support was down 8.8% and, in June, support was down only 4.0%. Despite the physical separation caused by this virus, you have not abandoned our parishes or our mission.

Here are some ways that our pastors, our lay staff, and you, our parishioners, have navigated the turbulence of this COVID-19 crisis. Parishes immediately began to put in place ways for people to work and communicate remotely. We emphasized that missionary discipleship will continue, just in a different way. Praying for one another became more intentional, as did just reaching out to each other. Pastors creatively thought of new ways to offer sacramental ministry. Many became experts in live streaming Masses. Through it all and with the myriad of nationally televised Masses available, parishioners said, “It was so good to see my priest celebrating the live streamed Mass.”

Entities like the Catholic Foundation of Southern temptation of aggression and violence, I appeal to all those who have public and governmental responsibilities to listen to the voice of their fellow citizens and to meet their just aspirations, ensuring full respect for human rights and civil liberties.”

“Finally, I invite the ecclesial communities living in such contexts, under the guidance of their Pastors, to work in favor of dialogue, always in favor of dialogue, and in favor of reconciliation.”

Next, he recalled that the annual worldwide collection for the Holy Land would take place this Sunday. The collection is usually taken up in churches during Good Friday services, but was delayed this

cont'd from pg. 1

Later in his homily, Bishop Quinn reminded the deacons elect of the profundity of their call to Christlike service:

You think sometimes you're getting old, but there's nothing like eternity; there is no time. ...Yet, God has known you - not just from creation; not just from when you were formed at conception - God has waited for you, and what joy you bring to the Triune God today! God's been waiting for you to come and give your heart into a life of service, diaconal ministry, in your parish. ...You are sharing in an office that the Holy Spirit has given to the Church so that the Church can proclaim Christ. In your life, you will show, over and over, Christ's servanthood, which means, like a good shepherd, you lay down your life.

For most of us, laying down your life in that apostolic office means the time - making time for others - and often that can be difficult. ...Too often, I live by my calendar. Too often, I'm checking my watch. Be on God's time. Let God direct you through divine providence. After all, it's His plan from beginning to end.

Bishop Quinn also especially thanked the deacons' wives for accompanying their husbands through their formation sessions and supporting them at home and through prayer.

The new deacons have all been appointed to diaconal ministry in parishes, effective August 24.

Deacon Kevin Aaker will serve St. Catherine Parish in Luverne and St. Leo Parish in Pipestone.

Deacon Scot Berkley will serve Sacred Heart Parish in Owatonna.

Deacon Frank Cesario will serve Ss. Peter & Paul Parish in Mankato.

Deacon Randy Horlocker will serve the Co-Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist in Rochester.

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Deacon William Keiper will serve St. Mary Parish in Winona.

Deacon Steven Landsteiner will serve St. John Vianney Parish in Fairmont, Ss. Peter & Paul Parish in Blue Earth, Holy Family Parish in East Chain and St. Mary Parish in Winnebago.

Deacon John LaValla will serve St. Charles Borromeo Parish in St. Charles, Holy Redeemer Parish in Eyota and St. Aloysius Parish in Elba.

Deacon Robert Miller will serve Resurrection Parish in Rochester.

Deacon Scott Schwalbe will serve St. Joachim Parish in Plainview and Immaculate Conception Parish in Kellogg.

Deacon Terrence Smith will serve St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Rochester.

Deacon Michael Zaccariello will serve Pax Christi Parish in Rochester and Ss. Peter & Paul Parish in Mazeppa.

Minnesota and Catholic Charities of Southern Minnesota have been instrumental in aiding the most vulnerable among us. They are able to do this because of your generous support of those entities.

As Bishop Quinn mentioned in his recent video, you have chosen “trust over fear, generosity over grasping, faith over doubt.” I join him in thanking you for your steadfast commitment to the mission of Jesus Christ present and active in His Church.

Life will go on. We will get through this crisis, and because of your prayers and generosity, we will come though this stronger and with a more defined understanding of what Jesus asks of each of us as Missionary Disciples. Jesus reminds us above all that He will not abandon us in that mission when he says, “And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age” (Matthew 28: 20).

Andrew Brannon is the chief financial officer for the Diocese of Winona-Rochester.

year because of the COVID-19 outbreak.

He said: “In the current context, this collection is even more a sign of hope and solidarity with the Christians living in the land where God became flesh and died and rose again for us.”

The pope greeted groups of pilgrims in the square below, singling out a group of cyclists suffering from Parkinson’s disease who had traveled along the ancient Via Francigena from Pavia to Rome.

Finally, he thanked Italian families who throughout August had offered hospitality to pilgrims.

“They are many,” he said. “I wish you all a good Sunday. Please do not forget to pray for me.”

Praying in Crisis Susan Windley-Daoust

Director of Missionary Discipleship swindley@dowr.org

Free Ideas for Evangelization!

Dr. Susan Windley-Daoust published a book this summer titled 101 Ways to Evangelize: Ideas for Helping Fearless, Fearful, and Flummoxed Catholics Share the Good News of Jesus Christ.

The publisher agreed to make the content available to the people of the Diocese of WinonaRochester for free!

Please go to this webpage for a free PDF version of the booklet: https://www.dowr.org/ offices/missionary-discipleship/ways-toevangelize.html

Resources for Parishes During Covid-19 Does your parish need help determining how to move forward in the midst of COVID-19?

Check the list of adapted possibilities to foster worship, community, and outreach at the Missionary Discipleship during COVID-19 webpage.

Go to: https://www.dowr.org/offices/ missionary-discipleship/resources.html

�his month marks our 19th annual remembrance of the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. In

my adult life, it was the first time I had experienced a national crisis. It was frightening, devastating, and deeply sad. The uncertainty in the next few days and weeks, even months—what would happen next?

Were we at war? A draft? More sudden attacks? How do we protect the vulnerable? How do we mourn in a crisis?—kept many of us up at night.

This pandemic is in some ways similar and in some ways different. No question, 9-11 hit some people much harder. But the pandemic is hitting some others much harder, and is stretched out into months with no sure end in sight.

During 9-11, I was good friends with a Christian minister, just as shocked by the terrorist attacks as the rest of us. I asked, "What do you all preach on when people’s worlds have turned upside down?"

Their church was spending time praying, mourning, and studying the Lord’s prayer. Because, she said, when you don’t have words, you use the Lord’s words.

The daily prayer given to us by Jesus Christ fills us on good days and bad days and horrific days. Maybe now, they thought, people will pray it and pay attention to the consolation of the Father.

I remember when my husband and I were adopting one of our children in an Eastern European country, living in a rural town for a month. A priest gave us a copy of Magnificat daily prayer since we were uncertain how we could get to Mass while we were there, and, although we sometimes could, that daily prayer booklet was a lifeline. The orphanage we visited daily was hard to bear, and walking away from neglected and dying children was tearing us up—not to mention our sweet new son was not in good shape.

I had never prayed the psalms while literally crying through them. But God gave us the words when we did not have them ourselves, through his Scriptures.

We bore what we could not imagine through the words he gave us.

I remember when my sister-in-law, who lives two hours away, had a massive heart attack at age 32, after giving birth. We thought she was dead, but weren’t sure.

Some family members were rushing to the hospital. Others, including our family, were on a group call, crying, trying to talk but unable to, mostly praying the rosary over and over until we got any word. Again, when we didn’t have words, we were given them by God himself, and they kept us afloat. (And, after days in a coma, my sister-in-law lived, possibly miraculously.)

Missionary Discipleship

Staying Afloat

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Back to our current crisis. I don’t want to define anyone’s experience, but this crisis is different in that it is extended, has no clear endpoint, and effects many different elements of people’s lives: work or lack of it, schooling decisions, difficult medical realities, relationships with older family members, and the deep stress and tension that exposes itself through argument, blame, and hate. It is no less a crisis for many.

If you feel you can safely participate in Mass in person, do so. No other crisis in modern memory has separated us from the Mass.

If you cannot, view and pray with the Mass online or our diocesan TV Mass. But, regardless: pray. Pray when you don’t feel like it. Pray when you do feel like it. Post prayers around the house if you need to.

Pray with others when you possibly can, reach out and start a group of prayer (where two or three are gathered…). Pray for an end to the pandemic. Pray for an increase in faith, your own and that of the people of Southern Minnesota. Pray to have eyes to see and ears to hear, as Jesus suggests. Pray to the Holy Spirit and give him permission to act in your life today. Pray as you can, not as you can’t. If you have no words, use the Lord’s; they are trustworthy. But pray.

Crises can give birth to saints, and our Church needs them.

The seemingly endless nature of this pandemic is nothing compared to the truly endless goodness and power of God. God does not disappoint. Let’s turn to him in good times and in bad times, including the present moment.

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Life, Marriage & Family

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Pope Francis: Human Dignity Has

Serious Political Implications Peter Martin

Director of Faith Formation and Life, Marriage & Family pmartin@dowr.org

BY COURTNEY MARES

VATICAN CITY, Aug 12, 2020 (CNA) - Pope Francis said Wednesday that Christian faith demands conversion from individualism and a commitment to defending the inherent dignity of every person.

“While we work for the cure of a virus that affects everyone without distinction, faith urges us to work seriously and actively to fight indifference in the face of violations of human dignity,” Pope Francis said Aug. 12.

“We want to recognize the human dignity in every person, whatever his or her race, language or condition might be,” the pope said at his general audience.

Speaking via livestream from the library of the Vatican’s apostolic palace, Pope Francis emphasized that this “renewed awareness of the dignity of every human being has serious social, economic and political implications.”

He said that the pandemic has “shed light on broader social ills,” including “a distorted view of the person” that ignores human dignity and “fosters an individualistic and aggressive throw-away culture, which transforms the human being into a consumer good”.

“In the light of faith we know, instead, that

God looks at a man and a woman in another manner. He created us not as objects but as people loved and capable of loving; He has created us in His image and likeness. In this way He has given us a unique dignity, calling us to live in communion with Him, in communion with our sisters and our brothers, with respect for all creation,” Pope Francis said.

“The pandemic has highlighted how vulnerable and interconnected we all are. If we do not take care of each other, starting with the least, with those who are most affected, including creation, we cannot heal the world,” he said.

Following the general audience, Pope Francis met with United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet at the Vatican.

In recent months, Bachelet, the former president of Chile, has spoken out about child marriage in Somalia, human rights violations in Yemen, and the Iranian government’s repression of civil society.

The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights’ spokesperson has also expressed concern over the application of China’s National Security Law in Hong Kong and Lebanon’s socioeconomic crisis. The Vatican has not released further details of the content of the pope’s meet-

ing with Bachelet.

Pope Francis had said at his general audience that humans have “inalienable dignity” because humanity was created in the image of God, quoting the Second Vatican Council’s pastoral constitution, Gaudium et Spes. He said that this lies at “the foundation of all social life and determines its operative principles.”

“In modern culture, the closest reference to the principle of the inalienable dignity of the person is the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which Saint John Paul II defined as a ‘milestone on the long and difficult path of the human race’ and as ‘one of the highest expressions of the human conscience,’” Pope Francis said.

“Rights are not only individual, but also social; they are of peoples, nations. The human being, indeed, in his or her personal dignity, is a social being, created in the image of God, One and Triune,” he said. “We are social beings; we need to live in this social harmony, but when there is selfishness, our outlook does not reach others, the community, but focuses on ourselves, and this makes us ugly, nasty and selfish, destroying harmony.”

The pope’s reflection on human dignity is part of a weekly series of catechesis on Catholic social teaching, which he began last week. Pope Francis said that he wants to “tackle together the pressing issues that the pandemic has highlighted, especially social diseases.”

“Let us ask the Lord to give us eyes attentive to our brothers and sisters, especially those who are suffering. As Jesus’s disciples we do not want to be indifferent or individualistic,” he said.

“May the Lord ‘restore our sight’ so as to rediscover what it means to be members of the human family. And may this sight be translated into concrete actions of compassion and respect for every person and of care and safeguarding of our common home.”

oly Spirit, comforter of hearts, A Prayer for Healing Victims of Abuse �ear the cries of our brothers and sisters � heal your people's wounds

�od of endless love,

ever caring, ever strong, always present, always just: You gave your only Son to save us by his blood on the cross.

�entle Jesus, shepherd of peace, join to your own suffering

the pain of all who have been hurt in body, mind, and spirit by those who betrayed the trust placed in them.

who have been gravely harmed,

and the cries of those who love them.

Soothe their restless hearts with hope, steady their shaken spirits with faith.

Grant them justice for their cause, enlightened by your truth.

and transform brokenness into wholeness.

Grant us the courage and wisdom, humility and grace, to act with justice.

Breathe wisdom into our prayers and labors.

Grant that all harmed by abuse may find peace in justice.

We ask this through Christ, our Lord. Amen. ©2014, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops

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Christian Initiation and COVID-19 Todd Graff

Director of Lay Formation & RCIA tgraff@dowr.org

This month's column is written by CAMILLE WITHROW, a program associate for the RCIA in the Diocese of Winona-Rochester.

�or all of us, life has looked dramatically differ-

are how we view prayer and worship and how we view the community’s participation in RCIA. While the Eucharist is the highest form of worship, our worship and prayer entail more than our participation at Mass. The Second Vatican Council, in its document Sacrosanctum Concilium, states: The spiritual life, however, is not limited solely to participation in the liturgy. The Christian is indeed called to pray with his brethren, but he must also enter into his chamber to pray to the Father, in secret [cf. Matthew 6:6] (#12).

As Catholics, we are blessed to have a treasury of prayer forms and practices. Whether it be ent since a National Emergency was declared in praying the Liturgy of the Hours, the rosary, or March due to the coronavirus pandemic. When I a morning offering, this pandemic has given us think back to March, I remember myself as a hopean opportunity to help RCIA candidates develop ful, and perhaps naïve, woman who thought that personal prayer and worship routines outside of this pandemic would be close to over by the start the church building, and to create a sacred space of the 2020-2021 school year. Unfortunately, the in their homes where they can offer this worship. increasing surge of cases has proved me wrong, During this time, it is especially important to and we are all being called to re-envision what remember that the Church is more than a buildour lives will look like until a vaccine is made ing.

Undoubtedly, RCIA formation is going to look available. different, and for many parishes, a classroom and To try to come up with plans for the future has regular schedule may not be possible. This gives proved difficult, as we simply do not RCIA leaders an opportunity to focus know “what is around the corner.” This I often hear on formation that happens outside of a has also created many challenges for those in church ministry. Many serving that things will certain location and time of the week.

As we plan how to adapt RCIA in our in faith formation are left to wonder never be the parishes, we are given a chance to look what First Communion, Reconciliation, at new opportunities that we may not and Confirmation will look like for their same due to have thought of before. kids. School administrators are workThrough this period of social isolathis pandemic, ing tirelessly to develop plans that will tion, we have come to a greater underkeep both their staff and children safe but we can standing of the importance of comas they prepare to reopen. munity in all parish ministries. This And those serving in the Rite of use that to our has always been a foundational part Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) advantage. of RCIA. As the Second Vatican Council now have to determine as best they states: can, in light of the constraints imposed by the pandemic, how to continue to reach out Christian initiation in the catechumenate to inquirers, provide an environment where catshould be taken care of not only by catechists echumens and candidates can grow closer to the or priests, but by the entire community of the Lord, and develop the best ways to assist RCIA faithful, so that right from the outset the catparticipants as they journey toward receiving the echumens may feel that they belong to the peosacraments. ple of God (Decree on the Missionary Activity of Although it has proven a challenge to adapt to the Church, #14). the limits brought about by COVID-19, this time This pandemic can help us to realize how does present new opportunities for those in RCIA much we need and rely on community, and to furministry as well. Many that serve in the RCIA are ther appreciate the value that community plays in familiar with change. We are called to adapt our our RCIA candidates’ journeys. initiation ministry each year depending on the During this time of social distancing, comindividual circumstances of the participants in munity participation will look different than it our parish, and we then walk with these inquirers, has before. This time gives us a chance to reflect catechumens, and candidates in a process where on new ways to incorporate parishioners outside change and conversion are crucial. of the RCIA team into this ministry. Whether it This time of uncertainty gives us a chance to be by establishing parish companions for RCIA step back and review what the Rite of Christian candidates, developing a weekly check-in sysInitiation of Adults calls us to as we envision what tem between sponsor and candidate, or through the next year or so may look like and develop a various other ways, the RCIA candidates will have new plan going forward in these unique circumopportunities to experience the beauty in being stances. While there is no doubt that RCIA will part of the Body of Christ. look different, there are many ways that we can At his Urbi et Orbi blessing on March 27, Pope make it work for our candidates, and possibly Francis stated: even make it better. Two of the key components We have realized that we are on the same boat, that I see that stand to benefit from this change

Lay Formation & RCIA

Adapting Our Ministry

7

all of us fragile and disoriented, but at the same time important and needed, all of us called to row together, each of us in need of comforting the other.

RCIA ministry is about journeying with the catechumens and candidates. We develop important relationships with those in RCIA as they are deepening their relationship with God and the Church.

It is important to remember as inquirers come to us that we need to get to know them - and where they are at in their lives. This pandemic has brought some loss into each of our lives. Due to the stress caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, we will need to assess the individual and unique needs of each seeker while paying attention to added needs and stressors they may have due to the pandemic.

I often hear that things will never be the same due to this pandemic, but we can use that to our advantage. As we work to discern a “new normal,” we are given an opportunity to discover anew the ministry of Christian initiation. As Pope Francis stated in his Urbi et Orbi blessing: You are calling on us to seize this time of trial as a time of choosing. It is not the time of your judgement, but of our judgement: a time to choose what matters and what passes away, a time to separate what is necessary from what is not. It is a time to get our lives back on track with regard to you, Lord, and to others.

May we all use this time to grow closer to our Lord and look forward in hope to the time that we will be able to embrace again.

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Vocations

8

Meet Our

New Seminarians

� his fall, the Diocese of WinonaRochester welcomes six new seminarians

to formation for priesthood in our diocese. Please pray for: Nathaniel Garity (Resurrection, Rochester), Alexander Peters (Holy Family, Kasson), Benjamin Peters (Holy Family, Kasson), Michael Syzmanski (All Saints, New Richland), John Paul Bickerstaff (Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, Winona), and John Vrchota (St. Joseph, Lakefield), that God will guide their steps in discernment and formation.

This month, we will get to know Nathaniel, Alexander and Benjamin. Introductions to Michael, John Paul and John will appear in the Courier's October issue.

Nathaniel Garity was born and raised in

Rochester. His interests include singing a cappella, playing the trombone and tuba, debating, hiking, and traveling to new places.

Please describe your journey to the seminary.

Growing up, I was really active. Every day I would go on walks and play in the yard. I really loved playing with my brothers and friends. I was also a very happy child and was always laughing. In my childhood, I was obedient and rarely talked back to my parents or teachers.

Throughout most of elementary school, I was shy. For example, during recess and playtime, I was dependent on others wanting to play with me. In class, I contributed but I never stood out. However, in 4th grade I began to interact with others more and be more active in pursuing my friendships and contributions in class time.

As a child, I loved God and prayed with my family every day before meals and before bedtime. Furthermore, my parents instilled in me a hard-working ethic and encouraged learning. They also passed on a reverence of God and Christianity by bringing us to church every Sunday and bringing us to Faith Formation classes.

I first heard my call when I was about 7 years old.

It occurred on a sunny summer day during a car ride with my family, during which I was thinking about what I wanted to do when I became a grown-up. I first started my investigation by examining the vocations of my parSeptember 2020 w The Courier w dowr.org

ents. I thought to myself, “Well, my mom teaches Special Education, so she is a teacher, and my dad works at Mayo, so he is a healer.” From there I thought, “Perhaps the best job is where the two vocations meet.” Then I asked myself, “What is the best combination of a teacher and a healer?” I paused for a brief moment before coming up with the answer. Namely, the occupation of a priest. Thereafter, I have prayed for discernment, which has only increased my desire be a priest.

The most important advice is “Pray Always.” Without prayer we are incapable of loving God. Only in prayerful contemplation are we able to develop our relationship with Jesus within our daily lives, friends and family. In Jesus is the fullness of Priest, Prophet and King. Without a solid relationship with him, we cannot discern.

Rev. Jason Kern Director of Vocations jkern@dowr.org

calling me. I also had the opportunity to walk with a few students who were also discerning entering seminary after college, which provided clarity for me in my discernment. Partway through the school year, I decided to take a step of faith and start the application process to enter seminary.

Who has had the strongest influence on your faith journey?

There are many people who have had a huge impact on my faith life, but I know I would not be as strong in my faith if it wasn't for some FOCUS missionaries.

Andrew Tomsche was the first missionary who intentionally invested in me and started me on the path of recognizing how important God and my faith actually are. Another FOCUS missionary, Luke Kubic, challenged me in my belief on the Eucharist by telling me that if I truly believed that Jesus was present in the Eucharist, then I should be spending as much time as possible with Him in Adoration and Mass. Fr. Dustin Larson, the parochial vicar at St. Albert the Great University Parish at Michigan Tech, helped me in my discernment not only in spiritual direction, but also as a true spiritual father and friend to me. Lastly, my FOCUS teammates all helped me grow closer to the Trinity in various ways and continue to challenge me to grow deeper in my relationship with the Lord.

Alexander Peters

has always loved playing or watching sports. He grew up playing soccer, hockey and baseball. He has occasionally gone hot air ballooning when not at school.

When did you first hear the call to discernment of priesthood?

I first heard the call and started my discernment when I was a senior in college. Although a few people had mentioned to me that I should consider priesthood when I was a freshman, I shrugged it off and didn't actually think about it until God made it apparent in prayer that I needed to discern this call. St. John Vianney is credited with saying, "There is nothing so great as the Eucharist.

If God had something more precious, He would have given it to us." A friend pointed out to me that the Catholic Church is nothing without the Eucharist and we could not have the Eucharist if there were no priests.

This simple line sparked something in me and made me open to receiving the call to discern in prayer. For about three months, almost every time I was praying, either in Adoration, with the Rosary, or at Mass, I would have thoughts about what it would be like to be a priest.

I had just accepted a position with FOCUS (Fellowship of Catholic University Students), where I would go to a college campus and lead Bible studies and mentorship with some students. While with FOCUS, I got placed at Michigan Tech University and had the opportunity to further discern if seminary was where God was

How does it feel to be entering the seminary?

I am excited to enter seminary and continue the path of discernment to see if the Lord is calling me to serve Him as a priest. I have always enjoyed learning about philosophy and theology, and getting to further those studies while also building amazing friendships that will last a lifetime is something I am looking forward to while in seminary. The fraternity that seminary fosters will help me to run closer to the Lord in my relationship with Him through my relationships with other brother seminarians.

What advice do you have for others who are discerning their vocations?

If you are discerning a call to your vocation, whether it is seminary, religious life, married life or the single life, I would encourage you to make your relationship with the Lord through prayer your number one priority. Without that relationship, you cannot actively discern anything the Lord is calling you to. After you are praying daily, if you are still unsure about what your next step should be, give yourself and God a timeline for when you will make a decision, and stick to it. When the day comes to make a decision, look back at how the Lord has been speaking to you and then make a decision. The Lord will work in your life more by walking down a path and realizing it isn't what you are called to than if you never make a decision about where to go.

family is Catholic, my father’s family - who is Lutheran - helped me have a deep appreciation for the faith of others as well as what it means to be authentically Catholic.

We travelled a lot as kids to visit family, and did everything possible in our community and school.

When did you first hear the call to discernment of priesthood?

Benjamin Peters

has stayed busy working at the Chocolate Shoppe in Mantorville, performing in theatre and spending time on the water with his family.

He loves reading, writing letters and singing.

What was your childhood like?

I grew up in Kasson-Mantorville with my parents and my elder brother and sister. My parents encouraged me to understand my faith, both intellectually and spiritually, incorporating it fully into my life. While my mother’s

Acolytes and Lector Installed

When I was in sixth grade, I remember looking up at our old, three-story, red-brick school building and thinking, “I could be a priest.” Then our teacher came and called us in for class, and my mind moved on to other things. As I went through high school, I began to explore different careers, frequently rejecting the idea that I could be a priest; however, kneeling in adoration at the local Steubenville Conference, I heard God’s call again. I couldn’t resist the joy to which he called me, and, over the years, he has continued to re-affirm that message.

Who has had the strongest influence on your faith journey?

Priests, religious, married couples, and singles who truly live out their vocations have had the strongest influence on my faith journey. Having met these dedicated men and women, particularly through my work with the Lasallian Brothers, I have seen God work in their lives of service and vocation to bring them closer to him. Their fiat has inspired me to do the same.

On August 14, at the Basilica of St. Stanislaus Kostka in Winona, DOW-R seminarians Michael Churchill and Mitchell Logeais were installed as acolytes, and Matthew Koestler was installed as a lector. Please pray for Michael, Mitchell and Matthew as they take their next steps toward priesthood while continuing their formation at Sacred Heart Major Seminary in Detroit.

How does it feel to be entering the seminary?

This is actually the second time that I’m going into formation. I was first a seminarian from 2014-2016. When I left IHM Seminary in the fall of my junior year, I continued my education and discernment at Saint Mary’s and then in working for the Lasallian Volunteers. Over the past two years, I recognized my joy in serving God as a teacher, but saw that he was still calling me to something deeper: formation for the priesthood. So, I feel excited to be returning to formation, seeing my many brothers, and continuing God’s work in my own life and the lives of others.

9

How has your life changed since answering your call to the seminary?

The greatest change has been my attention to prayer.

While I learned a lot about prayer in high school and seminary, there are some more opportunities to take advantage of as I continue in formation, including Adoration, Mass, Holy Hour, and the Liturgy of the Hours, which the Catechism refers to as the “Prayer of the Church."

Overall, my extracurriculars and relationships have not changed much. When I first left seminary, people used to point out things that I couldn’t do because, “I was an (ex-)seminarian.” From hanging out with such-andsuch a person to performing in a show, these responses often provided a good laugh. Yet, as a Catholic, the things which I enjoy as a young man are often the same things which I should enjoy as a person in formation for the priesthood: performing, athletics, reading, fraternity, prayer, etc.

What joys or difficulties have you experienced moving forward in your vocation?

My greatest joy and difficulty as I have prepared for reentry to formation are the same: doing God’s work! As the source of joy and happiness, I have personally witnessed how He continuously calls us deeper into relationship with Himself. Unfortunately, growing toward God often means seeing myself as I truly am versus the life He made me for. However, when He points out my faults I’m happy, because I move closer to Him. What advice do you have for others who are discerning their vocations?

L to R: Mitchell Logeais, Michael Churchill, Bishop John M. Quinn, Fr. Jason Kern and Matthew Koestler

My greatest advice is to be patient, be open, get over yourself, and commit to being authentically Catholic. In the end, God will lead you to the glory of Heaven.

Taking Vows Five Religious Sisters of Mercy with connections to the Diocese of Winona-Rochester professed their final vows on August 16 in Saginaw, MI. Bishop Quinn attended the profession. Sister Mary Elisha Glady is the daughter of John and JoAnn Glady of St. Ignatius Parish in Spring Valley. Sister Marie Josepha Kluczny is the daughter of Deacon John and Donna Kluczny of St. Edward Parish in Austin. Sister Mary Rafqa Boulos, Sister Maliya Suen and Sister Marie Faustina Wolniakowski have all been previously assigned to service in the Diocese of WinonaRochester.

L to R: Sr. Marie Faustina Wolniakowski, Sr. Maliya Suen, Bishop John M. Quinn, Sr. Marie Josepha Kluczny, Sr. Mary Elisha Glady and Sr. Mary Rafqa Boulos

On August 2, in Alton, IL, Sister Peter Marie Tran, another native of the Diocese of WinonaRochester, professed first vows with the Sisters of St. Francis of the Martyr St. George. Sister Peter Marie's parents are Cuong Tran and Hoa-

Bishop John M. Quinn and Sr. Peter Marie Tran

Le Nguyen of Pax Christi Parish in Rochester. The profession was attended by Bishop Quinn, four DOW-R seminarians, and Sister Peter Marie's cousin, Fr. Thê Hoàng.

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Catholic Foundation

10

Journeying Toward Priesthood With Help from the Seminarian Education Fund � he Diocese of Winona-Rochester has been blessed this year with an out-

standing number of young men studying to become priests. Bishop Quinn commented that the faithful and fervent prayers, as well as an increased focus on high quality youth ministry and faith formation programs, has helped more men hear God’s call to the priesthood.

With this great blessing comes the necessity of helping these young men afford the education that they will need to become priests. Following the trend of most other higher education facilities, the cost of educating and forming the seminarians from our diocese has increased as well.

For this reason, the Seminarian Education Fund was formed. The Seminarian Education Fund was started in 2006 by Bishop Emeritus Harrington to ensure that we could provide the best possible priestly formation for the future priests of our diocese.

This fund is often mistaken for other campaigns aimed to assist seminarians, namely the Hearts on Fire appeal held by the Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary (IHMS). The two appeals differ in several ways, with the Hearts on Fire Appeal supporting the general operations of the IHM Seminary, and the Seminarian Education Fund directly supporting men

from the Diocese of Winona-Rochester, with tuition assistance and room/board expenses.

The journey toward priesthood usually takes at least eight years to complete and includes attending both a minor and major seminary. Including the seminarians at both institutions, the cost for the diocese is more than $300,000 annually.

Men from the Diocese of Winona-Rochester start this process by enrolling at Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary in Winona, where they work toward discovering what God has planned for them.

There they work toward receiving a Bachelor of Arts degree in a specifically designed philosophy major from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota.

Currently, there are eight seminarians attending IHM Seminary.

Once the men have finished their time at IHMS, they attend Sacred Heart Major Seminary in Detroit, MI, where the men truly hone in on forming themselves to be priests. We currently have six seminarians from the diocese studying at Sacred Heart Major Seminary. In addition to those at Sacred Heart Major Seminary, we also have seminarians who are taking

Monica Herman

Executive Director Catholic Foundation of Southern Minnesota mherman@catholicfsmn.org

a pastoral/regency or journey year. Currently, there are five men who fall into this category.

The Seminarian Education Fund covers all expenses related to the seminarians' education while they attend Sacred Heart Major Seminary. This cost runs approximately $40,000 per seminarian each year.

The people of the diocese are always very supportive of educating and taking care of its seminarians. We are tremendously blessed to have so many men journeying toward the priesthood in the Diocese of Winona-Rochester. Please continue to pray for these men and, as always, for an increase in vocations.

Congratulations!

Since our kick-off, the following parishes have met their goals for the 2020 Catholic Ministries Appeal:

All Saints New Richland Holy Family Kasson St. Ann Slayton St. Casimir Winona St. Joseph Waldorf St. Luke Sherburn St. Mary Lake Wilson St. Rose of Lima Lewiston

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Seminarians in formation for priesthood in the Diocese of Winona-Rochester are (L to R, excluding Rev. Jason Kern [left in red] and Most Rev. John M. Quinn [right in red]): (front row) Isaiah Olsem of St. Gabriel Parish in Fulda, studying at IHM; Michael Syzmanski of All Saints Parish in New Richland, on a Journey Year in La Crosse, WI; John Vrchota of St. Joseph Parish in Lakefield, studying at IHM; Alexander Peters of Holy Family Parish in Kasson, studying at IHM; John Paul Bickerstaff of the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Winona, studying at IHM; Teagan McDermott of St. Charles Borromeo Parish in St. Charles, studying at IHM; (middle row) Timothy Welch of the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Winona, studying at IHM; Nathaniel Garity of the Church of the Resurrection in Rochester, on a Journey Year in La Crosse, WI; Gabriel Rysavy of Holy Trinity Parish in Litomysl, studying at IHM; Benjamin Peters of Holy Family Parish in Kasson, on a Regency Year in La Crosse, WI; Riley Becher of Pax Christi Parish in Rochester, studying at IHM; Ezra Lippert of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish in Easton, on a Pastoral Year; (back row) Jordan Danielson of Holy Redeemer Parish in Eyota, studying at Sacred Heart Major Seminary in Detroit, MI; Brian Klein of St. Casimir Parish in Wells, studying at Sacred Heart Major Seminary in Detroit, MI; Nicholas Gawarecki of Pax Christi Parish in Rochester, studying at Sacred Heart Major Seminary in Detroit, MI; Michael Churchill of St. Finbarr Parish in Grand Meadow, studying at Sacred Heart Major Seminary in Detroit, MI; Matthew Koestler of St. Charles Borromeo Parish in St. Charles, studying at Sacred Heart Major Seminary in Detroit, MI; Mitchell Logeais of St. Thomas More Newman Center Parish in Mankato, studying at Sacred Heart Major Seminary in Detroit, MI. Not pictured is Adam Worm of St. Thomas More Newman Center Parish in Mankato, on a Pastoral Year.

Thank You, Donors!

Raised Funds Unlock Schulze Family Matching Grant

�he Diocese of Winona-Rochester Office of

Catholic Schools and The Catholic Foundation of Southern Minnesota are pleased to announce the successful completion of a significant matching challenge grant from the Schulze Family Foundation advancing the work of Catholic education. The challenge grant matched $50,000 of the more than $50,000 that was contributed by a wide array of benefactors, including DOW-R parishioners and Catholic institutions, for a grand total of $100,200 in support of

Austin KCs Recognize Pacelli Graduate, State Essay Winner

By JEAN MCDERMOTT

AUSTIN - Rory Bickler, Pacelli Class of 2020, was recently recognized as the state champion of the Knights of Columbus Catholic Citizenship Essay Contest. On August 7, Mike Embrickson, Grand Knight of Austin Council #1201, presented Bickler with a check and certificate to honor her achievement.

The Catholic Citizenship Essay Contest, part of the Knights of Columbus Faith in Action community programs, encourages today’s youth to be more connected to their community and their faith. The goal of this program is to involve young Catholics in grades 8 to 12 (public, private, parochial or home schools during the current school year) in civic discourse and instill in them religious and life-affirming values. The essay is 500750 words on a specific topic, changing every other year. Entrants are judged on grammar, style, and how clearly they present the theme in a way that showcases creativity, imagination and overall development of the topic. This year’s prompt was: The First Amendment of the Bill of Rights states, "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof, or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press, or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances."

What does "the free exercise" of religion mean to you?

Bickler’s essay connected these words of the Constitution to the words of the Catholic Catechism, as she wrote:

What do you think of when you hear the phrase “religious freedom”? Maybe you think of being able to go to Mass on Sundays or being given the option to go to a Catholic school, but religious freedom is much more than that. Being able to embrace your core beliefs and values means that you are able to be your own person. Our religious freedom is our ability to think and believe what we feel. We are able to be true to ourselves and not just follow those around us or what the government says we must believe. As stated in the Catechism, “Freedom is exercised in relationships between human beings. Every human person, created in the image of God, has the natural right to be recognized as a free and responsible being.

All owe to each other this duty of respect. the right to the exercise of freedom, especially in moral and religious matters, is an inalienable requirement of the dignity of the human person. This right must be recognized and protected by civil authority within the limits of the common good and public order.” (CCC 1738) The 2020-2021 essay contest prompt reads as follows: In an essay of 500-750 words, discuss how trusting in God during a difficult time has helped you or someone you know find the strength and hope to endure it. Consider especially those times when it was a challenge to understand why something was happening.

Consider also sharing any lessons about faith and hope you or someone you know may have learned from this experience. “Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even

an abundant life. Catholic schools are an expression of this faith, an invaluable gift to all those attending, and a pledge of future stability for our faith communities. May we continue to support our next generation of Catholic school students, ensuring excellence in their education and formation, as we depend on our Catholic schools to proclaim the message of salvation to a world searching for the hope and meaning which can only be found in a relationship with Jesus Christ and his Church.

We wish to thank the members of the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation for their support of and dedication to Catholic education, and to everyone who contributed to make this matching challenge grant process such a great success.

Catholic Schools

Marsha Stenzel

Superintendent of Catholic Schools mstenzel@dowr.org

our Catholic elementary schools. The challenge grant, which began during the 2019-2020 school year, will support each school with an opportunity to provide professional development on assessments for both students and teachers.

The matching challenge grant will be divided equally among our Catholic elementary schools, supplying the necessary training for teachers to remain current on new resources and tools for educational improvement. The monies will also be geared toward student assessment and the data it provides to drive curriculum, directly impacting approximately 4,350 children attending Catholic elementary schools across the DOWR. Catholic education in the Diocese of WinonaRochester is a ministry of the Church which is integral to our faith in Christ, the teacher par excellence, who instructs us all along the path to

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Grand Knight Mike Embrickson presents Rory Bickler with a check and certificate as Pacelli Principal Kane Malo and Pacelli President Jean McDermott look on.

though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy” (1 Peter 1:8).

Council #1201 in Austin is one of the 17,000 Knights of Columbus councils that make up the world’s largest Catholic fraternal service organization. Founded in 1882 to assist working-class and immigrant Catholics in the United States, today the approximately two million members of the Knights put their faith into action through a broad range of charitable causes locally, nationally and internationally with financial contributions and hands-on service.

Jean McDermott is the president of Pacelli Schools in Austin.

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Youth & Young Adults

12

Footwashers and Firestarters Aaron Lofy

Director of Youth & Young Adults, alofy@dowr.org

�s the world we live in has contin-

ued to be changed by the far-reaching impacts of the coronavirus pandemic, it has also revealed a deep need for authentic service (footwashing) and evangelization (firestarting). With every family affected in some way, and many affected in profound ways, the least among us have been hit harder than ever. Who better to take on the important work of meeting these needs than young people, whose lives have also been turned upside down?

On August 6-8, a group of 19 young people and a host of adult volunteers gathered to bless the city of Winona with their footwashing and firestarting efforts. Over the course of three days, youth learned about street evangelization and the works of mercy, hit the streets to pass out water, prayed with people, decorated the sidewalks of a local nursing home, painted and did yard clean up at a transitional house, cleaned up the river, pulled weeds, baked for public service workers, and more. Some projects were planned by the coordinators, but others were completely student

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initiated. Participants also attended Mass and Eucharistic Adoration and had opportunities for confession. Praise and worship, prayer, and of course (socially distanced) games were also part of the schedule.

COVID, of course, affected planning in many ways. Group sizes had to stay small and many local organizations are not accepting outside volunteers. Dedicated adults cleaned throughout the day and planners organized the schedule to keep small groups from interacting as much as possible.

Outside activities were emphasized. More than just extra work, however, the pandemic also provided a context for conversation on the value of being an apostle of joy (as Saint Teresa of Kolkata would say), noticing local needs, and the importance of taking small steps.

The extra effort was worth it. One parent and adult volunteer stated, “I am so relieved to see people of faith willing to take precautions and take risks at the same time in order to keep our community strong and to provide our children with leadership to follow.”

The number one feedback from the youth?

Next year they want five days instead of three!

The Footwashers and Firestarters logo was designed by 2020 graduate Maria Windley-Daoust.

We have young people wanting to continue with street evangelization on a regular basis during the school year and others who are discussing creative ways to serve both alone and in groups.

In reality, there is no reason to wait for next year. A one- or two-day event could be a reality for any parish community. The model is repeatable in a variety of contexts. Footwashing and firestarting is a mission youth are excited to undertake for Jesus by answering just one question, “What is God asking me to do next?”

The Curious Case of

The Priest Who Wasn't Baptized 13

�ne of the big recent news stories—at least for

canon lawyers—was about a young priest who found out that he was not actually a priest - and, for that matter, not even technically a Catholic. But how could such a thing happen? And is it something the average Catholic should be concerned about?

A Note from the CDF

First, some backstory: on August 6 of this year, the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith (i.e., the Vatican “department” responsible for, among other things, providing clear answers for But of course, many of the sacraments this theological questions) issued a statement indicatpriest attempted to administer before he was ing that a baptism in which the minister changes really a priest are now known to be invalid as the formula to say: “We baptize you in the name well—a situation which his diocese is working of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit,” as opposed to hard toward resolving. Perhaps ironically, all the the correct: “I baptize you…” is not valid, meaning baptisms that the young priest himself administhat the attempted baptism didn’t actually “work.” tered were actually valid. This is because, if push Around the same time, a young priest watched comes to shove, anyone (even an unbaptized peran old home video of his own baptism from 1990, son) can confer baptism, as long as they intend and realized that the deacon who baptized him as what the Church intends and use the proper matan infant had used the now known to be invalid ter and formula.

“We baptize…” formula. This meant that not only was this priest not actually baptized, but also that Excessive Legalism? he was not ordained, since baptism is the foundation of and prerequisite for all Some might question whether this Do y o other sacraments. u story isn’t an example of excessive aq ha cano uestion ve The priest contacted his diolegalism on the Church’s part. woul n law th about cese right away, and his perAfter all, is it fair or reasonable at yo answ d like to u sonal situation was addressed that such catastrophic and s Ema ered her ee as quickly as possible. Within far-reaching consequence? il the space of a few weeks, he jcoo es should arise from only per@ was baptized, received his switching out a single word? d with "Cou owr.org first Holy Communion and This might be the case rier ques Confirmation, made a retreat if the Church was the author tion subje " in the and was ordained a deacon, of the sacraments, instead of ct lin e. and then ordained a priest two their custodian. That is, while days later. the Church can resolve questions about how the sacraments are to be administered, in reality it is The Consequences the Lord Himself who created and gave us However, this mix-up had far-reaching consethe sacraments. The Church cannot make changquences. Since the deacon who had baptized the es—or even allow for changes—if these changes young priest invalidly had ministered in parishes contradict God’s plan for the most fundamental for a number of years, many of the other bapaspects of the sacraments. tisms that this deacon was involved in were likely So, in this sense, even very small details also invalid. In an effort to resolve this broader regarding the matter (i.e., the physical “stuff” problem, the diocese in question engaged in what to be used, such as water in a baptism) or form amounts to “sacramental contact tracing,” issuing (i.e., the specific words of the prayer) can be a well-publicized letter to the faithful explaining profoundly meaningful. In this specific instance, what happening, sharing the name of the deacon the invalid baptismal formula of “We baptize…” and the parishes where he served, and asking anywas typically meant to emphasize the role of the one who may have had an invalid baptism or who Christian community in welcoming the supposedmay be otherwise effected to reach out so that ly newly-baptized member. However, the correct their sacramental status could be put in order as baptismal formula of “I baptize…” indicates who quickly as possible. is ultimately doing the baptizing, namely Christ.

Ask a Canon Lawyer

Jenna Cooper

Tribunal Coordinator & Judge jcooper@dowr.org

In other words, baptism is not simply being carried out by the minister of baptism, but rather by Christ in the person of the minister. As such, the invalid “We baptize…” formula misrepresented what truly happens in this sacrament.

Do I Need to Worry About My Own Baptism?

While this kind of news story can be a good opportunity to refresh our understanding and appreciation of the sacraments, it can also sometimes cause faithful Catholics to be concerned about their own personal sacramental status. But the good news in this regard is that in general, sacraments are fairly tough to mess up, and the Church presumes a sacrament is valid until definitively proven otherwise.

In this priest's case, he knew absolutely for certain, both because of the clarity of the Vatican documents and because of the video evidence, that his baptism was invalid. If a Catholic has a similar level of certainty about the invalidity of his or her baptism (or any other sacrament), they should contact their pastor right away so their situation can be resolved. Likewise, if a Catholic does not have clear proof, but merely a extremely well-founded suspicion—such as, they were baptized at a parish that was known to use an invalid baptismal formula at the time—they can still contact their pastor, as it may be a good idea for a conditional baptism to take place.

But if a Catholic sees a news story like this and vaguely wonders, “Oh no, what if this happened to me?” they can rest assured that they almost certainly have nothing to worry about. While they make for eye-catching stories, instances like this one are actually exceedingly rare.

Finally, it’s good for us to keep in mind that while, in a certain sense, the sacraments bind God to act in a certain way, God’s generous grace is not limited by the sacraments. God promises to act through the sacraments, but He is always free to extend His mercy beyond the bounds of the sacraments if He so chooses.

September 2020 w The Courier w dowr.org

14

What's a Good Catholic Voter to Do?

Faith in the Public Arena

The following is excerpted from a longer Q&A published on August 30, 2020, by The Central Minnesota Catholic magazine of the Diocese of St. Cloud, as an installment in its Big Question series.These answers are provided by JASON ADKINS, executive director of the Minnesota Catholic Conference, and a frequent author of the Faith in the Public Arena column. The original version also includes answers from Jill Rauh, director of education and outreach for the USCCB's Department of Justice, Peace and Human Development; and Bernie Evans, professor emeritus of theology at St. John's School of Jason Adkins Theology and Seminary in Collegeville. It can be viewed online at: thecentralminnesotacatholic.org/the-bigquestion-whats-a-good-catholic-voter-to-do/ What does the Church say about Catholics’ involvement in political life and voting? Shouldn’t the Church stay out of politics? Is there any scriptural basis for its involvement?

Pope Francis says that politics is one of the highest forms of charity because it serves the common good.

Participating in the political process is an act of loving service or charity (caritas) because it is part of our responsibility to love our neighbor (Mark 12:30-31).

To love our neighbor means to work for his or her authentic good. Part of working for the good of our neighbors—whether they live near or far, and whether we know them personally or not—is enacting policies that protect human dignity and promote the common good.

In the Church’s social teaching, this responsibility is known as the “call to participation” in community. A community is literally a “sharing of gifts,” and if we do not participate, we deprive the community of our perspective and the gifts that we have been given to share. Certainly, we do not all have the same responsibility, as we have different gifts (1 Cor. 12:12). So, even though you may not be the elected official who votes yay or nay to enact a law, you can use your gifts to advocate for good policies. We can do this by building relationships with our elected officials. Each of us cannot do everything, but we can all do something.

Relatedly, if we find that there are some who are excluded from political life, including voting, then we have a special responsibility to work for their inclusion (Matthew 25). We must work to give a voice to those who have none, and prioritize the needs of the poor and vulnerable who often don’t have the resources or organization to bring an effective voice to the public policy conversation.

Voting is one small but important part of the call to participation. In a representative government, it is important to carefully choose those who make important decisions on behalf of those whom they represent and the broader political community. But we cannot reduce the call to participation in public life to voting and be content with checking that box.

Taking part in the political process is an activity of service where people come together to discuss how we ought to order our lives together. It should not be a power game. People who object to the Church offering its moral perspective on the issues of the day or the participation of religious people in public life often view politics through the prism of power. In this way, they do not want religious people imposing their views on others who do not share their faith.

September 2020 w The Courier w dowr.org

Catholics, too, can fall into the trap of viewing politics solely through the lens of power, and not wanting the Church to undermine its ability to reach people with the Gospel by causing stumbling blocks for people.

But the Church calls us to see politics through the lens of service and a community conversation about what serves the common good. Therefore, we cannot sit on the sidelines of these important matters.

When we engage in the political process in the right way with the right principles, our witness will be evangelical and bring people closer to Christ. The political arena is mission territory (Matt. 28:20). That is certainly my experience after almost ten years serving in this position.

What principles/values should we take into account when casting our vote? Should Catholic social teaching be our guide?

We need to form our consciences with the right principles, and then inform our votes. Doing so will help transform our legislatures.

The Church does not tell us how to vote in every election. Rather, it provides the principles for shaping our participation in community life. Formed in those principles, we go out and transform the world and restore all things in Christ.

Catholic social teaching is that toolbox of principles.

It is not a set of prescriptions or ready-made answers.

Instead, it is a mental model for well-formed Catholics to guide their actions. How those principles apply in addressing social problems or when voting is a question of prudence. Prudence is a virtue that allows us to do the right thing in the right way at the right time.

Sometimes, Catholics will differ in their prudential judgments, that is, the application of the principles of Catholic social teaching in politics and in elections.

That is okay. The key, however, is for Catholics to be operating on the firm foundation of the right principles.

To do so, we must form our conscience (conscience means “with knowledge”).

If we fail to form our conscience in the truth of the Church’s teachings, or malform our conscience with the opinions of TV news talking heads, we will not only fail to bring the Gospel into public life, we may do more harm than good.

Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship identifies two temptations in public life that can distort the Church’s defense of human life and dignity: 1) a moral equivalence that makes no ethical distinctions between different kinds of issues involving human life and dignity; and 2) the misuse of these necessary moral distinctions as a way of dismissing or ignoring other serious threats to human life and dignity. How should Catholics navigate through these two temptations?

First, read Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship to be rooted in a consistent ethic of life that protects human life from womb to tomb and promotes human flourishing in between.

Not all issues are created equal. But the full spectrum of issues should be part of the voting calculus. An issue may not seem like it affects you or be your issue of preeminent concern, but it likely affects someone else and needs to be considered. That is called voting in solidarity with others.

Further, as Pope Francis reminds us in Laudato Si’, everything is connected. For example, if you are concerned about marriage and the well-being of the family, you should also be concerned about economic policies and social supports that help create the conditions for stable family life.

Second, avoid starting with a preferred voting outcome and then working backward to justify it. People can take some portion of the Church’s social teaching to justify almost any vote. But we should strive to think with the mind of the Church and let our actions and our votes be rooted in the right principles.

What if you feel no candidate for a particular office fully embraces a commitment to the dignity of the human person? How do you decide for whom to cast your vote?

Again, voting is a question of prudence. Catholics can come to different conclusions about the wisdom of various choices. Because we operate in an electoral system dominated by two parties, with candidates chosen by a small group of very ideological activists, we are sometimes not given a choice between two good candidates, but instead we are picking the lesser of two evils. We ask ourselves, “Which candidate will do the least damage to the dignity of the human person and the common good?”

In some cases, a person in good conscience cannot vote for either of the major-party candidates. Voting for a third-party candidate or skipping a vote in a particular race are legitimate options. They are not “wasted votes” but actions taken out of principle and in good conscience.

Not voting altogether because one does not like the options at the top of the ballot seems imprudent. There are many other candidate races on a ballot that merit study and careful consideration. As we have been reminded during this pandemic, major decisions are made at the state and municipal levels, and we cannot ignore those candidates and issues out of disgust at what goes on in Washington.

That being said, some Catholics, such as Dorothy Day, rarely voted. Though one cannot ignore voting and public life, it may reach a point where the refusal to vote is its own form of witness. Voting is important, but it’s not a sacrament. Ultimately, it is a question of conscience. Like everything else we do, how we vote should reflect Gospel values and a commitment to seeking first a kingdom that is not of this world.

What are some do’s and don’ts for Minnesota parishes when it comes to election season?

MCC offers a guide to permissible political activities during election season. It can be found at mncatholic. org/election.

Parishes are often afraid of overstepping permissible bounds and endangering the parish’s tax-exempt status, and therefore avoid any election-related programming.

This is a mistake. Parishes have broad latitude to offer nonpartisan educational material and events to inform voters.

A few key recommendations: Avoid endorsing candidates explicitly. Similarly, to avoid the appearance of a strongly implied endorsement, do not distribute voter guides from partisan organizations that are not approved by your bishop.

What resources and tools does Minnesota Catholic Conference offer to assist Catholics in having a voice in public policy and advocacy after Election Day?

First, ahead of election day, we are equipping parishes to help Catholics get to know the candidates. This year, for the first time, we are encouraging parishes, with the support of our state’s bishops, to host parish town halls with their state legislative candidates. It is a great way to help inform parishioners about who the candidates are, and where they stand on issues important to Catholics across Minnesota and issues that matter to people in the pew at that particular parish.

We have created an extensive toolkit for parishes who wish to host a townhall. It can be found at mncatholic.org/townhall.

To stay informed year-round, join the Catholic Advocacy Network. Go to MNCatholic.org/ActionCenter to register. By joining, you will receive regular updates on what is happening at the legislature, ways for you to bring your faith into the public arena, and action alerts that allow you to send a message to your legislators on issues impacting life, dignity, and the common good.

Two Maureens and a Memory

By JEANETTE FORTIER

Obituaries

Father Robert Maher died peacefully at his home in Las Vegas, NV, on August 14, 2020, at the age of 89.

He was born to Edna and John Maher on March 9, 1931, and grew up in Kenneth.

He graduated from St. Anthony's High School in Lismore. He then attended St. Mary's Seminary in Winona for four years and then Catholic University in Washington, D.C., for four more years, after which he was awarded his master's degree in theology. He was ordained on May 30, 1957, at St. Anthony's Church in Lismore.

After spending two years as a parish priest at St. Augustine Church in Austin, he moved to Rochester.

He served as chaplain for St. Marys Hospital in Rochester for 12 years, ministering and comforting the sick and the dying and their families and loved ones.

Father Bob (as friends knew him) was a small plane pilot, and, because of his love of flying, he joined the US Air Force in 1969 and was commissioned an officer in the Chaplain Corps. He served as chaplain at several locations, including Germany, Alaska, South Dakota, Florida, California, Texas, Colorado and Nevada. Early in his Air Force career, he served through the ending of the Vietnam War. Much later, he ministered to those servicemen who were experiencing the ravages of the Desert Gulf War. He eventually attained the rank of full colonel.

He served as USAF Inspector General of Chaplains for several years and traveled to virtually every US

Air Force base on the planet. Colonel Maher was awarded multiple honors and citations during his term of military duty.

After giving 25 years to serve his country, he retired in 1994 at the US Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, CO. He then moved to Camarillo, CA, for about five years and finally to Las Vegas, where he lived for the past 20-plus years.

He was a gourmet chef and especially enjoyed grilling over charcoal. He was also an avid dachshund lover, and over his career was blessed with Stormy I, Stormy II, Katie I, II and III, and, most recently, Willie. In earlier years, he enjoyed going to the greyhound race parks, hunting, and collecting model railroad engines. In his later years, he was often seen pampering a well-engineered car, reading, or enjoying marathon phone conversations with his innumerable friends to catch up on local events or personal news, or to debate politics.

He was preceded in death by his parents, an infant older brother, and several aunts and uncles.

He is survived by his sister, Mary Maher, of Cotati, CA, and a multitude of friends whom he considered family.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated

by Msgr. Richard Colletti and other priests of the Diocese of Winona-Rochester on August 28 at St. Anthony Church in Lismore. Burial followed in St. Anthony West Cemetery.

Sister Marice Hughes, 93, a Franciscan Sister of the Congregation of Our Lady of Lourdes, Rochester, died at Assisi Heights, August 21, 2020.

Margaret Mary Hughes was born August 17, 1927, in Waseca to William and Ida (Busch) Hughes.

She entered the Sisters of St. Francis in 1947 and made perpetual vows in 1953. Professional studies included a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and Latin from the College of St. Teresa, Winona, 1956, and a master’s degree in education from St. Mary’s University, Winona, in 1966.

Sister Marice taught 21 years in second-

15

In the Diocese

�

n other circumstances, I would be inviting you to attend our annual Diocesan CCW fall convention. As with other events, our convention has been canceled.

Hope to see you in 2021! Conventions are great events. A convention offers you an opportunity to come together to learn new information, meet new people, and renew friendships. When you commit to attend a convention, you are doing so not only for your parish, you do it for YOU. In the late 1970’s, I met a woman named Maurine Patterson at a diocesan CCW convention in Austin, MN. What a “go getter” she was and full of energy!

Maurine had connections around the world, she was a past president of the Diocesan CCW, and she had a great interest in the care and education of women.

She had a connection to women in South America and would receive shipments of beautifully woven runners and place mats which she would sell and return the money to women and communities where they were made. The funds would be used to finance chicken projects, bakery projects, and other programs that would create money-making industries for these women. Small in stature, Maureen was mighty in vision and strength.

In 1980, at the National Council of Catholic

Women Convention in Minneapolis, I met Maureen Willenbring. A tall woman with red hair, you could see her move through the crowd of women, acknowledging members she had met over the years and being introduced to new faces and encouraging them to get involved in NCCW programs – especially the Madonna Plan which NCCW partners with Catholic Relief Services (CRF) to empower and fund. The Madonna Plan works to improve the well-being of mothers and expectant mothers in areas of health, education, and financial security. The program works to reduce the risk of maternal mortality and increase access to quality maternal health services among pregnant women. The Madonna Plan also trains community members to be health agents and traditional birth assistants. NCCW through its connection with CRS lives the principle that all people regardless of nationality or background are entitled to be treated with respect and to have access to the key elements of a just and humane life: sufficient food, clean water, shelter, the opportunity to earn a living, education, and health care.

The memory I have of these two women is their great belief in the power and impact of the Madonna Plan and the women affected by its outreach. In the obituary for Maureen Willenbring published two weeks ago, her family asked that all monies be donated to the Madonna Plan. Pretty amazing!

If we could have had our convention this month, you would have heard about the Madonna Plan as well as other programs (Water for Life to mention just one) and resources (Domestic Violence, just one of many) available to you through NCCW. If you

have a moment, go to the NCCW website (nccw.org) and see what is offered.

Which of the resources would be of value to you? To your parish? What would create empowerment in your life and a memory for you? At 100 years old, the National Council of Catholic Women continues to touch thousands of lives. I can only imagine the memory of a mother with a newborn, receiving a layette package from NCCW filled with diapers, pins, receiving blanket, baby blanket and t-shirts. These two Maureens are part of that memory. You can be a part of that memory too!

Jeanette Fortier is the president of the WinonaRochester Diocesan Council of Catholic Women.

ary education at St. Priscilla School, Chicago, IL; Holy Redeemer School, Portsmouth, OH; and several Catholic schools in southern Minnesota: St. Theodore, Albert Lea; St. John Vianney, Fairmont; Cotter High School, Winona; and Sacred Heart School, Waseca. From 1971 to 1983, she served as the religious education coordinator at Sacred Heart Parish in Waseca. From 1983 to 1993 she provided care for her mother in Naperville, IL. When this service was no longer needed, she continued living in Naperville while serving as a library aide at Ss. Peter & Paul School there.

In 2002, Sister Marice moved back to Assisi Heights, where she served as an office assistant until 2013, when she retired and dedicated her remaining years to prayer ministry. Sister Marice is survived by her Franciscan Sisters, with whom she shared life for 73 years; one brother, James Hughes of Murrieta, CA; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and one brother, John Hughes.

A Memorial Liturgy will be held at a later date.

Memorials are suggested to the Sisters of St. Francis, Office of Mission Advancement, Assisi Heights, 1001 14th St. NW, Rochester, MN 55901

September 2020 w The Courier w dowr.org

Bishop Quinn Renews Consecration of Diocese to Immaculate Heart of Mary Submitted by FR. WILLIAM THOMPSON

WINONA--On Tuesday, September 8, the Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Bishop John M. Quinn renewed the consecration of the Diocese of Winona-Rochester to the Immaculate Heart of Mary, at a special 5:15 p.m. Mass at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Winona. IHM seminarians and faculty were in attendance, along with parishioners of the Cathedral.

The Diocese of Winona-Rochester was first consecrated to the Immaculate Heart of Mary in 2008, and we traditionally make this renewal every year on the Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, as an act of love and devotion to Our Lady. At the very moment of His conception in her womb, Jesus entrusted His whole being to her. Similarly, by this act of consecration, we allow Mary to actualize her mediation in our lives, enriching our diocese with many graces.

We surrender the diocese completely to God and His service, giving the same yes that Mary gave when she bore Jesus in her womb. The act of consecration dedicates the diocese and all of the good works that come from it to Our Lady and her desires, in order to more fully complete the will of her Son. As he has in the past, Bishop Quinn requests the renewal of the consecration of each parish in the Diocese of Winona-Rochester to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. Parishes are invited to choose a Marian Feast over the next month or so for their parish consecration, and some parishes have chosen a weekend in October, the month of the Holy Rosary. These special celebrations are also a wonderful time to renew our own personal consecrations to the Immaculate Heart of Mary.

This can be done as an act of unity with Bishop Quinn’s consecration of the entire diocese, and with the other priests and parishes of the diocese.

The parish consecration reads as follows: I, (pastor), in communion with Bishop John M. Quinn, solemnly bind and consecrate the faith-

ful and the territory of (parish, parishes) to your Immaculate Heart.

Ever Virgin, Immaculate Mother, Queen of Heaven and Earth, Mother of Divine Grace and Mother of the Church, we ask you to cover us with the Infinite Merits of your Divine Son in order to safely arrive to the Eternal Day and see God face-to-face.

We ask this + in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

The personal consecration reads as follows:

I, _____, a faithless sinner, renew and ratify today in your hands, ever Virgin and Immaculate Mother of God, the vows of my Baptism; I renounce forever Satan, his pomps and works; and I give myself entirely to Jesus Christ, the Incarnate Wisdom, to carry my cross after Him all the days of my life, and to be more faithful to Him than I have ever been before: In the presence of all the Heavenly Court I choose you, this day, oh Mary, for my Mother and Patroness. I deliver and consecrate to you - to your Immaculate Heart - my body and soul, my goods, both interior and exterior, and even the value of all my good actions, past, present and future; leaving to you the entire and full right of disposing of me, and all that belongs to me, without exception, according to your good pleasure, for the greater glory of God, in time and in eternity.

I also consecrate to your Immaculate Heart all the members of my family; protect their souls and bodies, their spiritual and physical integrity. Fulfill in me and through me your heavenly plan for these troubled times. I want to be an instrument in your hands for The Triumph of Your Immaculate Heart as you have prophesized in Fatima. Amen.

Fr. William Thompson is Vicar General of the Diocese of Winona-Rochester.

September 2020

• The Courier

Real Presence Radio to Hold 'Incredible Parish Challenge' Submitted by LORI KALGARD

�he Real Presence Radio network serves almost 1,000 parishes

throughout 10 dioceses. These parishes support RPR by publishing information about fundraising events, sharing the RPR mission through parish talks, and displaying RPR parish stands and marketing materials. RPR is returning their kindness by including parishes in the Incredible Parish Challenge during the upcoming Fall Live Drive, October 6-9.

During the Drive, participating parishes have the opportunity for a 20-minute on-air interview where the priest or a parish representative will showcase incredible happenings unique to their parishes!

Donors who then call in during the Live Drive can pledge their support to RPR, mention the parish name, and their donation will be attributed to that parish in the challenge. There will be two first prizes and two second prizes awarded. One $1,000 prize will go to the parish that raises the most money for RPR. The second prize of $1,000 will go to the parish that has the most call-in pledges. The second-place prize in both categories will be a $500 public awareness campaign that can be used within the next year.

Tune in to Real Presence Radio October 6-9 from 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM to hear more about these incredible parishes, inspirational stories of faith and hope, and your chance to win one of the daily drawings including books, gift cards, RPR gear and a few surprises!

Lori Kalgard is the director of marketing and events for Real Presence Radio.

The Televised Mass Is Offered Every Sunday Sioux Falls - KTTW Channel 7 at 7 a.m.

Sioux City - KPTH Channel 44 at 8:30 a.m.

Mankato - KEYC Channel 12 at 7:30 a.m.

Digital Channel 12.2 or Charter Channel 19 NEYC at 9:30 a.m.

Digital Channel 7 (DirecTV) or Channel 11 (DISH) KMNF at 9 a.m.

Rochester/Austin/Mason City KIMT Channel 3 at 7:30 a.m.

MyTV 3.2 at 9 a.m.

NEW Twin Cities - WFTC Digital Channel 29 or Channel 9.2 at 11:30 a.m.

Southeastern MN - HBC Channel 20 at 3 p.m. (repeated Wed. at 3:30 p.m.)

Winona/La Crosse/Eau Claire - WLAX/WEUX Channel 25/48 at 7:30 a.m. and on our website, dowr.org (click "Weekly Mass")