"The Aroma of Christ" (2 Cor 2:15) - Diocese of New Ulm
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Minnesota’s Most Rural Diocese Diocese of New Ulm Vol. 36 No. 6 April/May 2022
(photo by Christine Clancy)
“The Aroma of Christ” (2 Cor 2:15)
Handmaid of the Heart of Jesus Sister Maria Luz kneels beside five-year-old Frederick Schneider of
New Ulm as he experiences the smell of the fragrant balsam that was to be mixed with the Chrism oil
during the annual Chrism Mass held on Thursday, April 7, 2022, at the Cathedral of the Holy Trinity
in New Ulm. Looking on is sibling, Abigail Schneider, a second-grader at St. Anthony Elementary
School in New Ulm. As the diocese awaits a new shepherd, Bishop Emeritus John M. LeVoir returned
to the cathedral to celebrate the Mass and bless the oil of the Sick, the oil of the Catechumens, and
consecrate the Sacred Chrism.
(More coverage on the Chrism Mass, page 11.)
(Photo by Christine Clancy)
Conflict Resolution
Seasoned Diocese of New Ulm Marriage Preparation Program
presenters Roger and Deb Schroeder of Marshall role-play a
“heated discussion” for their audience of engaged couples during
their presentation on conflict resolution.
Minnesota’s Most Rural Diocese Diocese of New Ulm Vol. 36 No. 6 April/May 2022 (More on the diocesan Marriage Preparation Program, page 7.)
U.S. bishops to launch three-year Eucharistic Revival
Eucharistic procession on Feast of Corpus Christi to inaugurate revival in diocese
by Fr. Aaron Johanneck the United States Conference of
Diocesan Director of Worship Catholic Bishops (USCCB).
NEW ULM – On Sunday, June The National Eucharistic Revival
19, 2022, the Solemnity of the is a three-year project which
Most Holy Body and Blood of officially begins on June 19. The
Christ, better known as the Feast first year will be a diocesan year
of Corpus Christi, the Diocese of (2022-23), which will allow every
New Ulm will be taking Our Lord diocese to have diocesan-wide
Jesus in the Most Holy Eucharist events and catechesis to strengthen
into the streets of New Ulm! And and equip those who love the
you are invited to attend! Eucharist to be able to share their
love.
On this day, the diocese will
host a Corpus Christi Eucharistic The second year (2023-24) will be
procession which will begin at a parish year and will equip those (Art by Jules Breton)
4 p.m. at the Diocesan Pastoral who understand the Eucharist to
Center and conclude at the share that love of the Eucharist The parish year culminates in the to celebrate the great gift of the of Going out on Mission, which
Cathedral of the Holy Trinity in with those Catholics who do not National Eucharistic Congress in Eucharist and to enkindle in them will take place until Pentecost of
New Ulm. The procession will fully understand. This year will Indianapolis, July 17-21, 2024, a missionary fire to share the love 2025.
kick off the National Eucharistic have catechetical and evangelistic where it is hoped to gather 80,000- of Christ in the Eucharist with our
Revival, an initiative organized by opportunities in every parish. 100,000 Catholics of all ages country. The final year is the Year (Continued on page 2.)
inside Bishops meet with state leaders to advocate for families,
the poor and vulnerable, and the common good
by Minnesota Catholic Conference engaged in civil dialogue as all
Celebrating recognize that these are complex
Each spring, the bishops from issues with myriad considerations.
Minnesota’s six dioceses which The Church’s advocacy is
1972 comprise the Minnesota Catholic principled, not partisan, allowing
2022 Conference, convene in St. Paul Catholics to work collaboratively
to meet with the Governor and across the political spectrum.
key state legislators. The annual
Y E A R S of the day of meetings, which typically
Diocesan newspaper! The policy advocacy of our
occurs around the mid-point of Walz, Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan, providing equitable funding to
bishops offers a credible witness
the legislative session, helps give Speaker of the House Melissa nonpublic pupil aid programs, and
to the Gospel and is an expression
(Anniversary coverage, pg. 8) momentum to the advocacy of Hortman, Senate Majority opposing the legalization of online
of their pastoral care for all people
MCC staff, who are tasked with Leader Jeremy Miller, and sports gambling.
in the community, especially the
bringing the bishops’ legislative other key legislative leaders on poor and vulnerable. By modeling
concerns to the attention of strengthening family economic As always, these conversations
principled advocacy, our bishops
Visit us online! lawmakers. security by creating a Minnesota showcase an excellent model of
help our elected officials come to
www.dnu.org Child Tax Credit, combating faithful citizenship. Even during
This year, the bishops focused homelessness by assisting the points of disagreement, the
their conversations with Gov.Tim work of emergency shelters, bishops and legislative leaders (Continued on page 10.)
The Prairie Catholic l Page 1 l April/May 2022
diocesan church
On good ground
cultivate them responsibly, share assets grew $3,307,000 year-over- received generous gifts from
them lovingly in justice with year. estates during the year.
others, and return them with
increase to the Lord. It is a prayer We see God’s blessings through The diocese strives to be a good
of thanksgiving and trust not the strong investment climate steward of these gifts through its
spoken with our lips but lived this past year and the government ministries. Administration of the
through the work of our hands. programs which supported us diocese accounts for 37% of its
during the pandemic. Gains in the total expenses. Evangelization
This month we present our value of endowments and other and Catechesis ministries used
annual diocesan financial report invested funds accounted for $448,000, Worship and Spiritual
(see page 3 in this issue), for $2,216,000 of that increase. The Life ministries used $81,000,
the year ended June 30, 2021, vast majority of parishes, schools, Social Ministries used $567,000, Prayer for a
by Monsignor Douglas Grams in the spirit of transparency and and the Diocesan Pastoral Center and formation and care of clergy new bishop
Diocesan Administrator thanksgiving for God’s blessings received SBA Paycheck Protection used $569,000.
and the selfless support of our Program (PPP) loans which Almighty God,
I am reminded of the creation benefactors. The finances of the were forgiven during the 2020- The diocese has emerged from Who by the Holy Spirit moves
story of Genesis, in which God diocese are under the oversight of 21 fiscal year. The Statement of bankruptcy on strong financial the hearts of Your people,
created every temporal good in Deacon Rick Christiansen, interim Activities includes $248,000 PPP footing. We have been very
the Garden and then entrusted director of Finance, the College loan forgiveness income received prudent in controlling costs Direct the counsels of those
them to Adam to cultivate and of Consultors, and the Diocesan directly by the diocese. during that time, and we now look who are appointed
nurture. Adam was the caretaker Finance Council. Independent forward to expanding ministries to choose a bishop for the
of the Garden, receiving God’s auditors have issued an opinion The diocese was also blessed that build up the Body of Christ Diocese of New Ulm,
gifts gratefully, entrusted with that the financial statements through the generosity of our when our new bishop is appointed that we may be given a pastor
cultivating them responsibly. As present fairly, in all material benefactors. Parishes directly as shepherd of the faithful in the who in faithfulness and wisdom
the diocesan administrator for respects, the financial position of supported the work of the diocese Diocese of New Ulm. shall lead Your people in the
the past nineteen months, as we the Diocese of New Ulm and the through $1,573,000 contributions way of holiness.
await the appointment of our fifth results of its operations and cash to the Diocesan United Fund May God richly bless the work of
bishop, I also serve as caretaker flows. (DUF). The Diocesan Ministries our hands, and may he pour his Through Jesus Christ our Lord.
of the temporal goods given to Appeal (DMA) applied $785,000 Spirit upon us as stewards and Amen.
the Diocese of New Ulm for the We are pleased to report that the of donor gifts to support the work caretakers of the temporal goods
Lord’s work. Statement of Activities for the of several outreach ministries. he has entrusted to us for his glory. Mary, Mother of the Church,
year reflects a strong financial DMA donations remain restricted It is his promise that the Lord will pray for us
In fact, as Christian stewards, we position, with net assets on June by donors only to be used for not be outdone in generosity.
all receive God’s gifts gratefully, 30, 2021, of $17,992,000. Our net those purposes. The diocese also
Eucharistic Procession - “A time to boldly proclaim
p ra rie
The
our faith and love for Christ in the Eucharist”
catholic (Continued from page 1.) and a great renewal in the Church!
The Eucharistic Procession on
up a 700-foot brick path to a
chapel dedicated to the Mother of
the diocese and boldly proclaim
our faith and love for Christ in the
According to the USCCB website June 19 will begin the diocesan Sorrows. Eucharist by taking Him to the
The Prairie Catholic, the official
newspaper for the Diocese of New Ulm for this initiative, “The bishops Year of Eucharistic Revival here streets!
since May 1972, is published of the United States are calling in the Diocese of New Ulm. The Diocese of New Ulm
every six weeks, Sept.-June. for a three-year grassroots revival Eucharistic Procession is meant to For further details and updates
of devotion and belief in the Following the procession there be a celebration! Consider making regarding the Diocese of New
Publisher: Msgr. Douglas Grams Real Presence of Jesus in the will be prayers and Benediction it into a parish or area faith Ulm Eucharistic Procession on
Editor: Christine E. Clancy Eucharist.” The website states at the Cathedral followed by community pilgrimage. June 19 (Corpus Christi), visit the
Submission deadline is the 1st of each that “the bishops believe that a barbecue in Washington diocesan website, www.dnu.org.
month prior to publication. God wants to see a movement of Park, across the street from the Let’s get a huge crowd together
Catholics across the United States, Cathedral. Parking will be at the from all over the diocese to
Publication office: healed, converted, formed, and Cathedral. Bus transportation inaugurate this great revival in
Diocesan Pastoral Center, 1421 6th unified by an encounter with Jesus from the Cathedral to the Pastoral
Street North, New Ulm, MN 56073; in the Eucharist - and sent out in Central will be provided from 3:00
phone: 507-359-2966,
mission ‘for the life of the world’” to 3:45 p.m.
Email: dnu@dnu.org
Website: www.dnu.org Learn more about the
The Church teaches that the Holy Come early to pray the 14
Postmaster: Send notice on Form 3579, Eucharist is the source and summit devotions at the beautiful Diocese
USCCB document on the Eucharist
“The Prairie Catholic,” 1421 6th Street of our lives as Catholics. The of New Ulm’s Way of the Cross Watch a free online course
North, New Ulm, MN 56073-2071. Eucharist is central. It is the great located behind the New Ulm
Periodical postage paid at New Ulm A free course instructed by Bishop Andrew H. Cozzens, bishop
gift of His Presence given to us by Medical Center which leads up
and additional mailing offices. of the Diocese of Crookston, Minn., and head of the USCCB
Christ, who desires to remain with the hill to the Diocesan Pastoral
USPS 926-760. us always and encourages us to Committee for Evangelization and Catechesis, will help you
Center in New Ulm. This historic
remain with him and receive and unpack the USCCB document on the Eucharist.
shrine has been part of diocesan
be nourished by him. This great history for 118 years. Its 14
The Prairie Catholic gift at the heart of the Church is stations, with statues imported Visit eucharisticrevival.org for more resources on the revival,
is available online the source of all true renewal. A from Bavaria depicting the including a document entitled “The Mystery of the Eucharist in the
at www.dnu.org revival in Eucharistic faith and Passion and Crucifixion of Jesus, Life of the Church.”
devotion will bring about healing provide a quiet, reflective walk
The Prairie Catholic l Page 2 l April/May 2022
diocesan church
Diocese of New Ulm
Statement of Activities
(July 1, 2020 - June 30, 2021)
2020-2021 Revenues $5.7 Million 2020-2021 Expenses $2.6 Million
Grants and Other Income Diocesan United Fund Personnel Administration
58% 28% 22% 37%
Social
Ministries
Diocesan Ministries Appeal 21%
14% Worship and Evangelization and Catechesis
Spiritual Life 17%
3%
The Prairie Catholic l Page 3 l April/May 2022
diocesan church
En Tierra Buena Priest to mark 50 years of service to diocese
por Monseñor Douglas Grams durante la pandemia. Las ganancias Monsignor Lozinski was ordained John-Assumption in Faxon Twp.,
Administrador Diocesano en el valor de los fondos invertidos to the priesthood for the Diocese St. Brendan in Green Isle, and St.
representaron $2,216,000. La of New Ulm on May 28, 1972, Thomas (Oratory) in Jessenland).
Me acuerdo la historia en el libro mayoría de las parroquias, escuelas at the Church of St. Leo in St.
de Génesis cuando Dios creó y el pastoral diocesano recibieron Leo by Bishop Alphonse J. On the diocesan level, he has
el huerto del Edén y lo confió a préstamos a traves del Programa Schladweiler. served as Defender of the Bond
Adán para que lo cultivara y lo de Protección de cheques de pago and Associate Judge of the
cuidara. Su trabajo fue de cuidar (PPP), prestamos que fueron Following ordination, he served at Diocesan Marriage Tribunal, and
la creación de Dios. Adán cuidaba perdonados durante el año fiscal the Cathedral of the Holy Trinity the Bishop’s Delegate for the
del jardin y recibia los regalos de 2020-21. La declaración de in New Ulm, St. Gregory the Permanent Diaconate. Monsignor
Dios con gratitud, cultivandolo actividades incluye $248,000 PPP Great in Lafayette, St. Dionysius Lozinski holds a Licentiate and
responsablemente. En mi caso, prestamos perdonados recibidos in Tyler, St. Genevieve in Lake Masters Degree in Canon Law. He
como Administrador Diocesano directamente por la diócesis. Monsignor Eugene Lozinski Benton, St. Catherine in Redwood has served as Chancellor of the
durante los últimos diecinueve Monsignor Eugene Lozinski will Falls, St. Pius X in Glencoe, St. diocese since 2004.
meses y mientras esperamos el La diócesis también fue bendecida Mary in Sleepy Eye, St. Paul
mark his 50th anniversary of
nombramiento de nuestro quinto gracias a toda la generosidad in Comfrey, Japanese Martyrs Monsignor Lozinski currently
de nuestros benefactores. Las ordination to the priesthood on
Obispo, también soy el guardian de May 28, 2022. There will be a in Leavenworth, St. Michael in serves as Spiritual Advisor for the
los bienes temporales entregados parroquias apoyaron el trabajo Morgan and the oratory of St. New Ulm Diocesan Council of
de la diócesis a través de sus Mass of Celebration on Sunday,
a la Diócesis de New Ulm para la June 12, at 2:00 p.m. at the Joseph in Clements. He currently Catholic Women.
obra del Señor. contribuciones de $1,573,000 serves as parochial administrator
al Fondo Diocesano (DUF). La Church of St. Mary in New Ulm
followed by a reception in the for the Corpus Christi Area In 2005, he was named Chaplain
De hecho, como administradores Campaña para los Ministerios Faith Community (St. Mary in to His Holiness with the title of
Diocesanos (DMA, por sus siglas church basement.
cristianos, todos recibimos los Arlington, St. Michael in Gaylord, Monsignor by Pope Benedict
regalos de Dios con gratitud, lo en inglés) utilizó $785,000 de las A native of Canby, Minn., St. Joseph in Henderson, St. XVI.
cultivamos responsablemente, donaciones para apoyar el trabajo
de los diferentes ministerios. Las
compartiendo amorosamente en
materia de justicia con los demás
y devolver en creces al Señor. Es
donaciones del DMA permanecen
restringidas para los ministerios
Deacon Stalboerger part of diocese’s first
una oración de agradecimiento y
confianza no dicha por nuestros
designados solamente. La diócesis
también recibió generosos
ordination class of permanent deacons
labios sino vivir por el trabajo de obsequios durante el año. held on March 21 at the Church of Deacon Stalboerger was born
nuestras manos. Our Lady of the Lakes in Spicer, on July 6, 1946, in Mahnomen,
La diócesis se esfuerza por with burial in the church cemetery. Minn. He grew up on the family
Este mes nos enfocamos con el ser un buen administrador de farm near Waubun and attended
resumen de los estados de cuentas estos regalos a través de sus Deacon Stalboerger entered the Waubun High School, graduating
de finanzas en la Diócesis de New ministerios. La administración de Diocese of New Ulm’s permanent in 1964. He attended North
Ulm (ver página 3). Este resumen la diócesis representa el 37% de deacon formation program in the Dakota State University where he
corresponde al año que finalizó sus gastos totales. El ministerio fall of 2007 as an aspirant, and received a bachelor’s degree in
el 30 de junio del 2021, dentro de Evangelización y Catequesis one year later was admitted to Animal Science and Economics.
de este marco de transparencia y utilizó $448,000, el ministerio de candidacy for Holy Orders by
agradecimiento por las bendiciones Adoración y Vida Espiritual utilizó Bishop John M. LeVoir. He was On Aug. 23, 1969, he married
de Dios y el apoyo desinteresado $81,000, el Ministerio encargado Deacon Kenneth Stalboerger ordained a permanent deacon Yvonne Trnka. They had two
de nuestros benefactores. Las de las cuestiones sociales utilizó on April 21, 2012, by Bishop daughters, Kim and Kirsten. The
finanzas de la diócesis están $567,000 y la formación y el SPICER – Deacon Kenneth LeVoir at the Church of St. Mary couple made their home in Fargo
bajo la supervisión del Diácono cuidado del clero de $569,000. Stalboerger, a member of the in Sleepy Eye. He was assigned and later divorced. On Dec. 16,
Rick Christiansen, Director Diocese of New Ulm’s first to his home parish, the Church 1977, he married Elta Solem.
Interino de Finanzas, el Colegio La diócesis ha salido de la ordination class of permanent of Our Lady of the Lakes and They had three children, Kelsy,
de Consultores y el Consejo bancarrota con una base de deacons, died on March 13, 2022, assisted in the Jesus Our Living Kate, and Kurt. The family resided
Diocesano de Finanzas. finanza bien sólida. Hemos sido at his home near New London, Water Area Faith Community in Thief River Falls before moving
muy prudentes en controlar los Minn. He was 75. (St. Clara, Clara City, St. Mary, to New London in 2000.
Les informo que el estado de gastos durante ese tiempo y ahora Willmar, Our Lady of the Lakes,
actividades del año refleja un esperamos ampliar los ministerios A Mass of Christian Burial was Spicer.)
estado de finanza sólida, con para edificar el Cuerpo de Cristo
Clergy receive new parish assignments
activos netos al 30 de junio del cuando el nuevo obispo sea
2021 de $17,992,000. El activo nombrado como el pastor de los
neto creció $3,307,000 en el curso fieles en la Diócesis de New Ulm.
de los años. NEW ULM – Upon the and St. Mary, Cottonwood) and weekend and holy day assistance
Que Dios bendiga abundantemente recommendation of the Priest the parishes of Our Lady of the in our diocese.
El año pasado vimos las el trabajo de nuestras manos, y que Personnel Board, Monsignor Prairie AFC (St. Mary, Tracy and
bendiciones de Dios como derrame su Espíritu sobre nosotros Douglas Grams, administrator of St. Michael, Milroy.) Fr. Zach Peterson to serve as
resultado de una inversion como administradores y cuidadores the Diocese of New Ulm, has made parochial vicar to
sólida y con los programas de los bienes temporales que nos the following priest assignments. Fr. Cornelius Ezeiloaku to serve the Church of St.
gubernamentales que nos apoyaron ha confiado para su gloria. as parochial vicar Aloysius in Olivia
Effective July 1, 2022 to the Church of as well as the other
Fr. Shawn Polman to serve as St. Catherine in parishes in the
Retirement celebration parochial vicar to Redwood Falls as Heart of Jesus AFC
On Sunday, June 12, there will be a celebration in the Church of the well as the other (St. Mary, Bird Island and Holy
honor of Fr. Keith Salisbury’s recent retirement from Holy Redeemer in parishes in the Redeemer, Renville.) In addition,
active ministry. A Mass of Celebration will be held Marshall as well as Light of the World AFC (St. Anne, he will assist with Hispanic
at 12 noon at the Church of St Leo in St. Leo. A the other parishes Wabasso and Our Lady of Victory, ministry at the Church of St. Mary
reception will follow from 1-4:00 p.m. in the church in the Bread of Life Lucan). In addition, he will serve in Willmar as requested by the
basement. Fr. Salisbury retired March 31, 2022. AFC (St. Clotilde, Green Valley as a fill-in for priests needing pastor.
The Prairie Catholic l Page 4 l April/May 2022
diocesan church
Ordinations 2022: Soon-to-be priests ready to serve the Church
by Abbigail Saffert influenced by the example of
Prairie Catholic correspondent faithfulness and holiness from
his father. He recalled his dad
Three Diocese of New Ulm bringing the problems and
seminarians will be ordained decisions of everyday farm and
priests on Saturday, May 28, 2022, family life to Mass each week and
at 10:00 a.m. at the Church of laying them at the foot of the altar.
St. Mary in Sleepy Eye. If a new
bishop of the diocese has not been “This is what you do as a priest,”
appointed at that time, Bishop Thooft says. “You have nothing
Emeritus John M. LeVoir will of yourself to offer. You bring the
return to the diocese to ordain the parish to the Lord, lay them at Deacon Tanner Thooft Deacon Nathan Hansen Deacon Joshua Bot
men. the foot of the altar, and offer the Scott & Debbie Thooft Deacon John & Ruthann Hansen Deacon Bruce & Juanita Bot
sacrifice of the Mass for them.” St. Edward, Minneota St. John, Darwin St. Edward, Minneota
Deacon Thooft
Thoughts about the priesthood Thooft also drew on the lessons
came early for Deacon Tanner desire to help people,” he recalls. Through this and many other fraternity they had. It was different
of the farm. “With the farm, you
Thooft. It was in second grade, moments, God continued to lead from any other group of guys that
really have to learn to rely on
when he attended regular Saturday Hansen remembers falling asleep Hansen through seminary. He I had been a part of up to that
God,” he says. “You do your
night Mass with his family, that he one night thinking that he had no remembers praying, “Well Lord, if point. It was a group of guys who
best. . .work and do everything
wondered what it was about the desire to spend his life behind a you want me to go, you’ve got to all wanted to grow in holiness
perfectly, but it’s still up to God
priest celebrating Mass that drew desk. “There’s no peace; there’s make it happen.” and serve God’s Church, while
whether things work out.”
so many people there each week. no joy there. I told my parents supporting one another in doing
and said I think I might be called Hansen looks forward to seeing so.”
This focus on God in everyday
“I remember being really intrigued to be a priest instead of spending the Lord’s work as a priest in the
life is also one of the aspects of
by that,” Thooft says. “There must the year trying to become an people around him. As a kid, he Bot decided to enter the seminary,
the priesthood Thooft is looking
be something special, something engineer.” With his parents’ remembers going with his parents and in his third year, he spent time
forward to most.
different here.” support, they all went out to coffee to daily Mass and listening to the studying and praying in Rome.
to discuss this new path. Through older generations telling stories While there, a retreat experience
“One of the great joys will be to
Thooft questioned his parents this conversation, Hansen decided over coffee and donuts afterward. became a turning point for him.
visit with farmers and families, to
about it afterward. Living and to take a year off to discern. “That “I was just praying to God asking
walk into their everyday life, into “What every priest needs to do
working on a farm with his family was really life-giving for me to him if this was something that I
the joys, sorrows, great things, is listen to his people. I think I
were the two most significant have that time to process and could really do, and be fulfilled in
disasters. And I am bringing learned that when I was young,”
features of his life, so he asked discern,” he says. doing,” said Bot. Being a husband
Christ into this situation, whatever says Hansen, recalling the stories
where his parish priest’s family and father was also something
is happening. Even something like The discernment led Hansen to and lessons from those early
and farm were. When his parents Bot had a deep desire for, so he
fall harvest, to put in the bulletin begin speaking with the vocations times. He continues to look
told him that the parish and spent time praying for clarity. “As
that Father’s day off is Monday, director for the diocese, but he forward to “really encountering
community were the priest’s I prayed that prayer, I closed my
and he would love to help in the remained unsure. He took a the people, being with them and
spiritual children, Thooft initially eyes and saw myself as a husband
fields. The Lord loves these things. construction job, but “as much as seeing what God is doing with
thought that this path wasn’t for and father in a perfect family, with
He’s given you the vocation to I enjoy working with my hands, their lives.” He also hopes to be
him. But yet, he wondered what an awesome job. However, even
be a farmer, so do it well, and there was still no joy or peace.” a good administrator and to be a
would make someone give up a though everything was perfect, I
you’re serving Christ - when you faithful steward of the gifts his
family to pursue the priesthood? didn’t feel fulfilled,” he recalls.
go to work, to the grocery store, Hansen’s next step finally became parish staff brings to the table, “to When thinking of himself as a
whatever you’re doing.” apparent on a TEC retreat help take that from being a job to
The question of what was so priest, though, even imagining a
(Together Encounter Christ) where being a vocation and having an situation where everything was
important about the priest’s Deacon Hansen young adults explore and deepen encounter with the Lord, learning going badly, Bot still found a
role stuck with Thooft through Deacon Nathan Hansen started their faith. “I encountered a guy to thrive with the Lord and doing sense of peace and fulfillment. “It
Catholic school and into to consider the priesthood after who said ‘seminary is a place for his work.” was as if God was saying, ‘Even
high school when he had the watching his father become a young men to pursue the ways of
opportunity to go on a retreat. if all you had left was me, I would
permanent deacon for the diocese God.’” Deacon Bot
At the time, he wasn’t much still be enough for you.’ It was at
in 2012. For Deacon Joshua Bot,
interested in the retreat. “I didn’t that point that I really made my
“That was clear,” Hansen said. discernment started with a game decision.”
want to get anything out of it - just “As I was thinking about what I “That’s where I want to be.” He of chess. When his parish priest
get out of school.” wanted to do and what my mission called the vocations director and came to the family’s home for
is, I started praying and asking Bot is looking forward to many
entered the seminary. dinner, Bot, then a second- aspects of being a priest. “I look
However, during a time of quiet God what His plan was, so I just grader, challenged him to a chess
prayer on the retreat, Thooft found kept my heart open,” Hansen says. forward to serving God and living
Hansen jokes that studying match. “I lost in two moves,
himself walking the Stations of “I kind of thought about the Old my life giving myself to Him
philosophy in seminary “wasn’t which immediately earned my
the Cross and feeling the sense Testament stories, where God calls and his people by saying Mass,
what got me out of bed in the respect and admiration for him,”
that something in life wasn’t you, but no one had called me like hearing confessions, and serving
morning.” At one point while remembers Bot. “However, I
quite right. “I couldn’t put my that.” the people of God.”
studying in Rome, he recalls started from that time to see
finger on it,” he recalls. “I’ve got seeing another man who loved priests as more approachable,
friends, good grades, teachers like While thinking and praying about philosophy and thinking: “Lord, which eventually led me asking The Diocese of New Ulm
me; I love my family. But there’s the decision, Hansen enrolled in a I’m not like him. Why should I myself whether I might be called priest ordination on
something that’s off.” In praying community college in Hutchinson, keep going?” Hansen remembers to that.” May 28 will be live-streamed at
and speaking with God, Thooft Minn. On the drive to and from walking by a little chapel and www.dnu.org. A recording of
realized that doing things his way school, he listened to clergy speak having the sense of the Lord Bot pursued that question by
wasn’t leading to happiness, and on Relevant Radio and thought visiting St. John Vianney College the Mass will remain
saying, “Nathan, I call who I call.”
that proved to be the turning point he could see himself as a priest. Seminary in St. Paul to consider on the website for
that led him to seminary. “There’s a lot of good a priest “It’s not I who chose Him, but He whether to enter. “I got to know on-demand viewing.
In seminary, Thooft was can do, and I found myself with a who chose me,” says Hansen. the seminarians, and I saw that
The Prairie Catholic l Page 5 l April/May 2022
social concerns
Laudato Si’ Action Platform The Laudato Si’ Goals
seven years to sustainability 1. Response to the Cry of the Earth - Adoption
of renewable energies and energy sufficiency measures,
P ope Francis’ encyclical
Laudato Si’, On Care for Our
businesses, organizations, and
religious orders) over seven
carbon neutrality, protecting biodiversity, sustainable
agriculture, and access to clean water for all.
years. Any significance to the 2. Response to the Cry of the Poor - Defense
Common Home, was published number seven?
May 24, 2015, and first released of human life from conception to natural death and
on June 18 of that year. Laudato A. In sacred Scripture, the all forms of life on earth, with special attention to
Si’ means “Praise be to You,” number seven signifies fullness or vulnerable groups such as indigenous communities,
which is the first line of a canticle completeness. Think of the seven migrants, and children at risk through slavery.
by Saint Francis that praises God days of creation or the seven 3. Ecological Economics - Sustainable production,
with all of his creation. sacraments. The LSAP suggests fair-trade, ethical consumption, ethical investments,
the first year should be for divestment from fossil fuels and any economic activity
In his papal letter, the Holy planning, assessing where we are harmful to the planet and the people, and investment
Father unites social justice, now, and what we want to do to in renewable energy.
economic inequity, and various make progress towards the goals.
The next five years are for putting 4. Adoption of Simple Lifestyles - Sobriety
issues related to ecology and the in the use of resources and energy, avoid single-use
environment. The first encyclical into action the changes needed to
move towards those goals. The plastic, adopt a more plant-based diet and reduce meat consumption, greater use of public transport, and avoid
of its kind, the pope’s words in polluting modes of transportation.
Laudato Si’ have reached well seventh-year is to be a time of
beyond the Catholic Church celebrating! 5. Ecological Education - Re-think and re-design educational curricula and educational institution reform
and have been highly praised by in the spirit of integral ecology to create ecological awareness and action, promoting the ecological vocation of
people of all faiths. Q. Who can use the LSAP, and young people, teachers, and leaders of education.
how does one join the Platform?
6. Ecological Spirituality- Recover a religious vision of God’s creation, encourage greater contact with the
Deacon Tim Dolan, director A. Parishes, schools, families, natural world in a spirit of wonder, praise, joy and gratitude, promote creation-centred liturgical celebrations,
of Social Concerns for the organizations, and individuals develop ecological catechesis, prayer, retreats, and formation.
Diocese of New Ulm, recently are encouraged to learn all they
agreed to a question and answer can about the LSAP. They can do 7. Emphasis on Community involvement - and participatory action to care for creation at the local,
for The Prairie Catholic with this by going to www.laudatosi. regional, national and international levels (promote advocacy and people’s campaigns, encourage rootedness in
environmental activist Judy org, where they will find much local territory and neighbourhood ecosystems.
Schindler of Bird Island about information, including a short
Laudato Si’ and the pope’s seven- video of Pope Francis inviting
year Action Platform. everyone to begin a seven-year Benedict XVI likewise proposed typical family uses hundreds Editor’s note: Judy Schindler is a
journey to total sustainability. “Eliminating the structural causes of plastics every year, much of member St. Mary’s in Bird Island.
Q. In 2021, six years after its They will learn about what is of the dysfunctions of the world which ends up in our landfills. The During the 1980s and 1990s,
release, the Vatican officially already happening worldwide in economy and correcting models Laudato Si’ Action Platform is an she served on various diocesan
launched a seven-year Laudato response to the pope’s encyclical of growth which have proved excellent start to help encourage committees, including the
Si’ Action Platform (LSAP), and practical ideas for moving incapable of ensuring respect communities throughout our Ecumenical Committee, the Adult
a new global campaign to towards greater sustainability. for the environment.” He asked diocese and beyond to begin Education Advisory Committee,
bring the message of this 2015 us to “recognize that the natural individual efforts like this. I am and the Evangelization and
encyclical more fully into the Q. What do you suppose environment has been gravely hopeful that the Action Platform Catechesis Committee. She also
lives of the faithful. What are inspired Pope Francis to write damaged by our irresponsible will inspire significant change served as the New Ulm Diocesan
the seven goals of LSAP? Laudato Si’? To whom is it behavior and we need to and spark new ideas suitable to Council of Catholic Women
A. Discerning a response to the addressed? recognize any higher instance than our planet earth. As Pope Francis (NUDCCW) International Affairs
ecological crisis is a profound ourselves, when we see nothing wrote, “All of us can cooperate as Commission chairperson and as
A. Interestingly, as a young else but ourselves.” instruments of God for the care NUDCCW vice-president.
act of care. In his encyclical, the man, the Holy Father trained
Holy Father states this: “Caring of creation, each according to his
to be a chemist and worked as
for our brothers and sisters means Q. The whole climate issue or her own culture, experience,
a technician in a food science
is pretty overwhelming. Do involvements, and talents” (LS Laudato Si’ Week
caring for the home we share.” At laboratory. To understand how
this point, action is needed, and you feel there is a connection 14). May 22-29, 2022!
he was led to write Laudato Si,
the seven goals found in Laudato between climate change and the Learn more about this special
we need only to look back to
Si can guide our actions and call issue of right-to-life? And what United Nations report paints a week at www.laudatosiweek.
previous popes. Pope Francis
for both a spiritual and cultural are some steps ordinary people dire picture of our future.
included some of their documents, org. This year’s theme is
revolution to realize essential can start doing right now to help According to a United Nations
writings, and quotes that focused Integral Ecology: Pursuing
ecology. slow the climate change process? report on April 4, 2022, we
on environmental concerns in his the Common Good for our
learned that if we do not reduce
The seven goals of this vital encyclical. For example, in 1971, A. As a Catholic, the issue of pollutant-bearing emissions and Common Home. For resources,
Action Platform are: Saint Pope Paul VI referred to right-to-life holds a high standard. ideas, and inspiration,
other contaminants across all
1. Response to the cry of the the ecological concern as “a tragic I agree with the United Nations visit The Catholic Climate
sectors, limiting global warming
earth; consequence” of unchecked human Environment Programme (UNEP) Covenant website, www.
to 1.5°C is beyond reach. Though
2. Response to the cry of the poor; activity: “Due to an ill-considered website, www.unep.org, when catholicclimatecovenant.org/.
this report tends to paint a dire
3. Ecological economics; exploitation of nature, humanity it states: “Human rights and the For more information about
picture of the future, it also
4. Adoption of sustainable runs the risk of destroying it and environment are intertwined; the LSAP, contact the diocesan
indicates that there is still time
lifestyles; becoming, in turn, a victim of this human rights cannot be enjoyed Office of Social Concerns,
to mitigate the most severe
5. Ecological lifestyles; degradation.” Saint John Paul II without a safe, clean, and healthy consequences of climate change. tdolan@dnu.org; (509) 233-
6. Ecological spirituality; and became increasingly concerned environment; and sustainable Positive changes made now can 5326.
7. Community resilience and about the environmental issue. environmental governance cannot allow for a livable future, and it is
empowerment. He warned that human beings exist without the establishment of
important that each one of us take
frequently seem “to see no and respect for human rights.”
the time to learn what we can do
Q. The pope’s encyclical other meaning in their natural One way to make a positive
as a society that will stimulate us
is addressed to all people of environment than what serves for change is to reduce the amount
to do what must be done to clean
goodwill. The LSAP is addressed immediate use and consumption.” of single-use plastics such as
up “our common home.”
to seven sectors (families, Subsequently, he would call for grocery bags, straws, and take-
parishes, schools, hospitals, global ecological conversion. out containers that we use. A
The Prairie Catholic l Page 6 l April/May 2022
family life
Diocese of New Ulm Marriage Preparation Program provides tools to
build a strong and healthy marriage for engaged couples
by Katie Ballalatak CrM FertilityCare practioner.
Prairie Catholic correspondent Beyond coordinating the
Marriage Preparation Program
NEW ULM – Each year, the and its presenters, she spends
Diocese of New Ulm Office of considerable time collaborating
Family Life conducts up to six with other diocesan Family Life
Marriage Preparation Programs offices throughout the state. “We
that allow engaged Catholic as family life directors have
couples to study and understand ongoing conversations about how
the richness and beauty of we think we can most effectively
the teachings of the Catholic reach our couples today. What are
Church on marriage and family. the specific needs of our couples
These one-day programs feature that are coming to us? How do we
committed Catholic married respond to the needs that society
couples who present on the topic presents?”
of marriage. They bring these
teachings to life through the As a result of these discussions,
sharing of their own experiences all Minnesota dioceses have a
– all to help engaged couples standard pre-marriage preparation
prepare for the Sacrament of program, and each meets the
Marriage. requirements needed to get
married in the Catholic Church.
Roger and Deb Schroeder, This allows engaged couples to
parishioners of Holy Redeemer in attend any of the pre-marriage
Marshall, and Deacon Russ and programs in the state, should
Debbie Blaschko, parishioners scheduling conflicts come into
of St. Peter in St. Peter, have play.
served the diocese as marriage
preparation presenters for 20 “I think that’s been a real positive Sr. Candace Fier (front), director of the diocesan Office of Family Life is pictured with her team of
and 34 years, respectively. Both for us in the sense that it makes it marriage preparation presenters (front-back) Roger and Deb Schroeder and Debbie and Deacon Russ
couples consider this opportunity much easier to serve our couples,” Blaschko. (Photo by Christine Clancy)
a gift – one they genuinely love says Sr. Candace.
giving again and again to Catholic important. It might not always marriage is not easy. You need the
Above all, Sr. Candace says During their years of marriage
couples throughout the year. look like a retreat. But especially grace of matrimony to survive the
it’s important for the diocese to presenting, the Schroeders
The Marriage Preparation Program provide engaged couples with have primarily spoken on after kids and careers take over long haul,” said Deacon Russ.
focuses on six C’s. good role models and support communication and conflict – our lives, it’s so important to have
s Commitment unfolds marriage from couples living strong faith topics they say they “fell” into but dedicated time as a couple,” said Like Roger and Deb, Deacon Russ
as a sacrament, a visible sign of lives. “All of our presenters view consider of the utmost importance. Roger. and Debbie’s years in marriage
God’s love, that is faithful, fruitful their presentation as a gift to the “Communication is just so key ministry have also positively
and forever. future marriage of each couple. and so important in a marriage. Meet the Blaschkos affected their family life. “I feel
s Communication explores ways I encourage couples to take It’s something we’ve worked Deacon Russ and Debbie, who like this is the perpetual marriage
for couples to share themselves, advantage of that – to take the hard to keep open in our own will celebrate 40 years of marriage class,” says Debbie. “Because we
their values, ideals, and hopes for time to ask questions and really marriage,” said Deb. in September, started presenting always have to go through our
their own relationship, their family in 1988. talks and update things, and then
be enriched by what those couples
and beyond. In between presentations, Roger we’re forced to discuss things.”
can give.”
s Conflict resolution explores and Deb make themselves At that time, the couple presented
skills to restore harmony in Meet the Schroeders available and have had couples on finances and career due to For Deacon Russ, the experience
relationships in a Christ-like and Married for 28 years and the approach them to talk about Deacon Russ’ background in of marriage ministry always
charitable manner. addiction, family life, or specific banking. Today, they continue to reminds him that his children
parents of seven children, Roger
s Career and finance speaks of questions they didn’t feel give the career talk, but also speak are constantly watching their
and Deb ultimately became
time, talent, and treasure and the about children and natural family
involved in marriage ministry to comfortable bringing to a larger marriage. “They have been
sharing of those in the family, the planning, something they really
give back to engaged couples in group setting. learning by how we interact, how
Church, and the world. have a passion for “because it’s
s Children and parenting the Catholic Church. Twenty years we embrace each other, how we
later, their intention remains the The Schroeders’ time spent in healthy, effective, and a gift,” said solve our problems,” he said.
highlights the relationship of
same. “We believe so strongly marriage ministry has helped build Deacon Russ. “All married couples should live
family and how the couple is
enriched through their use of in the sacrament of marriage,” and strengthen their marriage their lives knowing their children
natural family planning (NFP), as said Roger. “We know the joys of as well: “Every time we are When it comes to finances, the are going to imitate the way they
they seek to parent their children. being married and the importance preparing to present, we see things Blaschkos recommend and work worked through marriage. If I live
s Church explores faith and of staying together, and we like from a different light which has with the couples through the idea my marriage with joy and hope
spirituality in marriage, helping where we can.” just enriched our own marriage of “family backgrounds” and how and reconciliation, I can hope my
highlighting interfaith issues and along the way,” said Deb. an individual’s family background children will observe that and will
the importance of prayer. Deb agrees: “We love having may affect how a couple interacts do the same.”
the opportunity to share our When it comes to fostering a with each other.
Sr. Candace Fier, ISSM, is the experiences and some of our marriage after the wedding, Roger Editor's note: Couples interested
director of the Office of Family own ups and downs of marriage and Deb encourage couples to The common theme of in becoming a Marriage Program
Life for the Diocese of New with others so they can gain continue to dedicate time to the sacramental grace weaves presenter should contact the Office
Ulm. She holds a masters degree information that could potentially relationship, specifically through throughout the Blaschkos’ of Family Life, cfier@dnu.org,
in Marriage and Family and help them in their own marriages,” marriage retreats. “That time presentations. “We invite them to (507) 233-5328.
is also a nurse and a certified she said. dedicated to your relationship is ask for the grace of matrimony. A
The Prairie Catholic l Page 7 l April/May 2022
education
Extra! Extra! The Prairie Catholic celebrates 50 years of pastoral news
by Christine Clancy
The Prairie Catholic
T he year was 1972, and the first issue of
NEWSLETTER rolled off the press!
Here’s the rest of the story. . .
On Nov. 18, 1957, the Diocese of New
Ulm was established. Bishop Alphonse J.
Schladweiler was appointed to shepherd the
newly formed diocese. Up until 1972, the
The NEWSLETTER was the result of several years of planning by clergy, religious,
majority of the news about the new see was
and lay people. The newspaper’s first editorial team included Margaret Knutson,
relayed to the diocesan faithful through a (left), Bill McGarry, Fr. Donald Eichinger-editor, Fr. Henry LeMay, Lois Willette,
single-page information sheet maintained and Fr. Eugene Brown. (Photos from Prairie Catholic archives)
by a close association with The Catholic
Bulletin, (renamed The Catholic Spirit in the 15 counties comprising the Diocese of Marshall, Minn. allowed the NEWSLETTER
1996), the newspaper of the Archdiocese New Ulm. production team to use his company’s
of Saint Paul. (The archdiocese was printing press. Mailing labels were provided
renamed the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and The newly formed newspaper’s production by Dave Theisen of the Crow River Press
Minneapolis in 1966). team included the editor, Fr. Donald in Hutchinson, Minn.
Early in his leadership, Bishop Schladweiler Eichinger, who at the time was also serving
expressed his desire to have greater as pastor of the Church of the Japanese When the Marshall newspaper changed Above: Front page of NEWSLETTER’s
communication with pastoral leaders and Martyrs in Leavenworth, Margaret Knutson hands that same year, Fr. Eichinger arranged premiere issue on May 27, 1972. In
the diocesan faithful he was entrusted to of Hutchinson, Bill McGarry of Appleton, for the printing and addressing of mailing 1986, the paper was renamed The Prairie
care for. Acting on the recommendation Fr. Henry LeMay who was also serving labels to be done by Mickelson Media of Catholic.
of the diocesan Liturgical Commission, as pastor of the Church of St. Andrew in New Ulm. By the end of the first year, the
the bishop gave his approval for a “news Granite Falls, Lois Willette of Olivia, and entire printing of the NEWSLETTER was
sheet” that would be mailed once a month, Fr. Eugene Brown who was also serving as managed by the House of Print in Madelia, a need for another publication in our midst?
free of charge, to every registered Catholic pastor of the Church of St. Leo in St. Leo. Minn. The Prairie Catholic continues to be There is because this paper will be storied
household. It would include information printed in Madelia. applications of our day-to-day Christian
about the activities of parishes and Newspaper a concerted effort. experiences. No other paper tells of this
significant diocesan and parish events. Regional secular newspapers in the diocese In his first pastoral letter published in daily struggle and the triumphs and failures
pitched in to help with the production of the the NEWSLETTER, Bishop Schladweiler of the people of God in the Diocese of New
After several years of planning by numerous NEWSLETTER, which was being financially expounded on the newspaper’s mission. He Ulm.”
clergy, religious, and laypersons, the first supported by the Diocesan United Fund, an wrote: “Today, the diocese ventures into
edition of the eight-page NEWSLETTER annual parish assessment that helps support journalism. There has been a long period Newspaper gets a new name!
was printed on May 27, 1972. It was all of the ministries of the diocese. of expectation. Our priests and people have In 1975 Bishop Schladweiler’s request for
produced ten times per year, September greatly desired this paper. I look upon it retirement was accepted by Pope Paul VI,
through June, and was mailed to households For the first number of issues, A.J. Henle first of all as a reflection in print of our holy
of the nearly 70,000 registered Catholics in of the Lyon County Independent in faith and of the Catholic way of life. Is there (Continued on page 9.)
Pope Francis expresses ‘sorrow and shame’ for Catholic role in abuse against
Indigenous peoples; meets Canadian Indigenous leaders at the Vatican
by Catholic News Agency saying he was sorry for the historic He condemned the colonization – for the role that a number of rendered to the Gospel,” he added.
evil committed against Canadian which broke the Indigenous peoples Catholics, particularly those with
Editor’s note: On April 1, 2022, at Indigenous peoples. away from their native land and educational responsibilities, have “It is my hope,” Francis continued,
the Vatican, Pope Francis made ways of life, stating that “in this had in all these things that wounded “that our meetings in these days
a historic apology to Indigenous Pope Francis, who had private way, great harm was done to your you, in the abuses you suffered and will point out new paths to be
peoples for the “deplorable” abuses meetings with the Métis, Inuit, identity and your culture, many in the lack of respect shown for your pursued together, instill courage
they suffered in Canada’s Catholic- and First Nations delegations, said families were separated, and great identity, your culture and even your and strength, and lead to greater
run residential schools and said he “listening to your voices, I was able numbers of children fell victim spiritual values,” he stated. commitment on the local level.
hoped to visit Canada in late July to enter into and be deeply grieved to these attempts to impose a Any truly effective process of
to deliver the apology in person to by the stories of the suffering, uniformity based on the notion that “All these things are contrary to healing requires concrete actions.
survivors of the Church’s misguided hardship, discrimination and various progress occurs through ideological the Gospel of Jesus Christ,” he In a fraternal spirit, I encourage
missionary zeal. forms of abuse that some of you colonization, following programs underlined. “For the deplorable the Bishops and the Catholic
experienced, particularly in the devised in offices rather than the conduct of those members of the community to continue taking steps
VATICAN CITY – Pope Francis residential schools.” desire to respect the life of peoples.” Catholic Church, I ask for God’s towards the transparent search
has expressed his “sorrow and “It is chilling to think of determined The pope said that learning about forgiveness and I want to say to you for truth and to foster healing and
shame” for the role Catholics have efforts to instill a sense of these situations made him feel deep with all my heart: I am very sorry.” reconciliation.”
played in the abuse of Indigenous inferiority, to rob people of their indignation and shame, “because it “Clearly, the content of the faith
peoples in Canada, especially cultural identity, to sever their roots, is not right to accept evil and, even cannot be transmitted in a way “I wish to tell you that the Church
in residential schools. During a and to consider all the personal and worse, to grow accustomed to evil, contrary to the faith itself: Jesus stands beside you and wants to
meeting with representatives of social effects that this continues to as if it were an inevitable part of the taught us to welcome, love, serve continue journeying with you,”
the Métis, Inuit, and First Nations entail: unresolved traumas that have historical process.” and not judge; it is a frightening Pope Francis said.
groups at the Vatican on April 1, become intergenerational traumas,” thing when, precisely in the name
the pope condemned colonization, he said. “I feel shame – sorrow and shame of the faith, counter-witness is
The Prairie Catholic l Page 8 l April/May 2022
Catholic life
A final farewell Easter - a time to encounter
New Council president installed at April convention the Resurrection of our
Those of us serving on the Finstad, a member of the Cathedral
NUDCCW board continued to
make plans for upcoming events,
of the Holy Trinity in New
Ulm, was installed as the new Risen Lord
W
which often had to be canceled. NUDCCW president. She has
We went from meeting in person to served on the NUDCCW Board as
hen the risen Jesus
meeting via Zoom, which provided president-elect since last summer.
encounters his disciples on the
yet another new adventure for (More about Finstad and the
many of us board members. It was convention will appear in the June road to Emmaus, it is quite clear
a presidency that provided many issue of The Prairie Catholic.) that their journeying away from
twists and turns (not unlike those Jerusalem is in fact a journeying
who came before me), but it was Jackie is a warm and welcoming, away from hope.
definitely different. faith-filled woman who will bring
a fresh perspective that breathes They have witnessed their friend,
As I am writing this, final new life into the Council of their hoped-for savior die; they
by Barb Mathiowetz preparations are being made for Catholic Women. have seen their community as members of God’s one human
former NUDCCW president the annual NUDCCW Convention, scattered; they have understood family.
This is my last article as the New which will have taken place on As I write these final words, I their trust in God to have been
April 30. I would like to thank would like to thank all those in the misplaced. What is left for them We encounter Christ, too,
Ulm Diocesan Council of Catholic
Women (NUDCCW) president, a the women of Holy Redeemer Diocese of New Ulm who do so now? within ourselves. And in these
position I have held for two years. Catholic Church for all their much through the DCCW. encounters, we have reason to
My term began at the end of hard work and dedication in the Jesus, of course, turns them hope. Because God is not done
April 2020, which was also the planning and hosting this day I am inspired by your faith and around – quite literally. The yet – and so long as we have
beginning of the COVID-19 which they had initially planned the love you bring to our Church encounter with the risen Christ strength to continue the work of
pandemic. Back then, no one knew for in 2020 and then re-planned for and communities. With a sincere means a renewed encounter with building a culture of encounter,
what the months ahead would 2021 and planned again for 2022! and grateful heart, I say my hope; that God is not done yet; of responding to our Gospel call,
entail for NUDCCW and like final farewell as the president of that darkness and suffering do not neither are we.
everyone else, we took it one day New president installed. NUDCCW. May God’s blessing be have the final word.
at a time. At the April convention, Jackie upon each one of you. How are you called to join with
Indeed, this story continues to others to “turn around” and
Newspaper a key instrument of evangelization unfold in our own time. We
look out at a world wracked by
challenge injustice that you see
or experience?
(Continued from page 8.) From 1986 to 2017, The Prairie valuable teaching tool that aims to hunger, poverty, war, injustice
Catholic continued publishing ten assist the bishop and his diocesan and we, too, feel like walking How can you work with others to
and a new shepherd was named. times a year, September–June. In staff, clergy, and parishes. It has away. Where should we place our be a sign of Christ’s Resurrection
Bishop Raymond A. Lucker was March of 2017, when the diocese remained a key instrument of hope when the challenges seem in your community?
installed on Feb. 19, 1976, as the filed for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy evangelization and an essential insurmountable?
second bishop of the diocese. to manage legal expenses and presence in the life of the Diocese Editor’s note: This reflection
facilitate settlements with clergy of New Ulm. For some in the This is the story of resurrection. was first published in CRS
Recognizing the growing sexual abuse survivors, the diocese, the newspaper is their We encounter Christ daily in the Rice Bowl’s Encounter Lent:
interest and a need for improved Communications office was only means of Catholic education faces of our neighbors, of those Theological & Scriptural
communication with the people of downsized to a staff of one, and the and spiritual formation. we meet in our work, our home, Reflections and appeared on
the diocese, in 1979 Bishop Lucker newspaper was reduced to seven on our streets, those whom we WeAreSaltAndLight.org.
formed the diocesan Office of issues published every six weeks Although e-newsletters, websites,
have yet to meet face to face but
Communications and appointed Fr. (September-June). social media, blogs, and email
with whom we are intricately tied
Dennis Labat to serve as part-time have become an essential part
director while remaining associate The diocesan newspaper continues of any Church communications
pastor of the Church of St. Mary to be financially supported by the strategy, by the grace of God
in Sleepy Eye and teaching at St. Diocesan United Fund (DUF), in and the financial support from
Mary’s High School. addition to donor contributions the faithful in the pews, the
to the annual United States diocesan newspaper will continue
In 1984, Paula Marti was hired to Conference of Catholic Bishops to make an imprint in helping
serve as the first full-time director Catholic Communications those in our parishes deepen their
of the Office of Communications Campaign, as well as an annual understanding of their Catholic
and assumed the newspaper editor Home Missions Grant. The faith and be a part of the life of the
responsibilities shortly thereafter. newspaper continues to be mailed Church.
In 1986, NEWSLETTER readers free to all registered Catholic
were invited to participate in a
“Name the Diocesan Newspaper”
households in the diocese. Editor’s note: Christine Clancy
is editor of The Prairie Catholic. Summer Camps
contest. The expectation of the Valued teaching tool. She has served the Diocese of New
contest was to find a name that Throughout these past 50 years, Ulm Office of Communications tCamp Beloved - Girls’ Camp
would more clearly reflect what the diocesan newspaper has been a since 1987. July 23-25 (grades 6-8) July 26-29 (grades 9-12)
the diocese was – A people and
a place in one of the most rural
dioceses in the nation. Newspaper archives now available tCamp Greatness - Boys’ Camp
July 3-Aug. 1 (grades 6-8) Aug. 2-5 (grades 9-12)
The Prairie Catholic and the NEWSLETTER
Out of the nearly 300 names are now available digitally through an online
submitted, Betty Heymans of archive. Be sure to check out this great resource Held at Schoenstatt-on-the-Lake in Sleepy Eye
Sleepy Eye won with her entry, for documented voices, events, and Christian
The Prairie Catholic. The Online registration is available through the diocesan Office of
teachings that have shaped the Diocese of New
new masthead appeared in the Youth & Young Adult Ministry, www.dnu.org/youth, or contact
Ulm for the past 50 years. Visit www.dnu.org - The Prairie Catholic
September 1986 edition of the Kevin Losleben, director, klosleben@dnu.org, (507) 233-5327.
newspaper.
The Prairie Catholic l Page 9 l April/May 2022You can also read
