Did you know that Memorial Day was initially called Decoration Day? This holiday originated in 1868, several years after the Civil War, to honor those who died. Today, we remember and honor those who have died in service in the U.S. military.

May is just December wearing a tank top. Am I right?

This past weekend I was mindful of all the work of the mothers (and fathers!) of our First Communicants – the preparation, the banners, the clothing, the family, the photos, and the celebrations. That and the occasion of Mother’s Day seems a good opportunity to reflect on my own 86-year-old mother and her quiet, but always faithful role in my vocation.

Humility in Action - Insights from Pope Francis & the NFL Draft

From Our Seminarian John Sparks - Prayers to Rome

The night before Ash Wednesday…is that like the night before Christmas?

As you may know, 2025 is a Jubilee Year! 

This “Year of Hope” officially began on Christmas Eve, when Pope Francis led the ‘Rite of Opening of the Holy Door’ of St. Peter’s Basilica, followed by Midnight Mass.

As I mentioned at the beginning of Advent this year, Advent and Christmas are part of the bigger salvation story. Yes, we experience them as a remembrance of 2025 years ago as well as the present season, but we are also always preparing our hearts and minds for Jesus’ second coming.

On that note, our Church, diocese and parishes have entered into a jubilee year.

I am right smack on the divide between Gen X and millenials and as an oldest child of oldest child boomers, I have a kitchy love of Claymation and Christmas is no exception. I don’t think I’ve written about this before…but it’s Advent, so if I have, give me grace!

Friends, we “know” God has perfect timing but how many times in our lives do we strive against His timing trying our best to make our timelines work?

If anyone ever asks me a good way to start reading the Bible, I usually recommend that they start by reading these two books written by St. Luke.

Check out and share these great open positions with the parishes!

When we are baptized we are baptized into the life of Jesus. We are baptized into Jesus’ priestly ministry, his prophetic ministry, and his kingly ministry. Each and every one of us is called by our baptism to live out these roles.

Jesus‘ kingly ministry may seem a little strange to us…

November is the month of wind and rain and scarves. November is the month of first fires and puppy snuggles. November is the month I welcomed my first child into the world. My body, mind and soul know the signs of these times.

One Minute Ministry - Jessie Baugnet, St. Francis Xavier

This week we hear from the Coleman Family who is active at St. Mary as well as at Notre Dame of De Pere School!

The Mares family is taking on “The Bible in a Year”…read more and find out where you can join in!

My wife Lynn and I recently celebrated our 40th wedding anniversary by taking a trip to the Canadian Rockies. I’ve heard it said, that when you travel to the East Coast, you tend to be surrounded by things that humans have built. And, when you spend time in the West, you can experience the grandeur of God’s creation!

The Lord God Made Them All!

What would a typical day in the life of a priest look like? Well, to be frank, there is not a typical day in the life of a diocesan priest. (BTW, picture is of our past pet blessing - this year it's this Friday, October 3rd at 3:05 on the NDDP playground!)