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Articles by Cathy Lins
Saint Paul’s Catholic Student Center to host 13th annual Spring Wine Fest
Spring Wine Fest returns on Friday, May 3. The event is a festive reunion for alumni, benefactors, and Catholics from all over the Midwest, benefitting the mission of Saint Paul’s Catholic Student Center.
It’s time to rejoice!
To speak of joy may seem naïve or misplaced as we look at the state of the world today. The wars in Ukraine and Israel, the polarization in our society, the paralysis of the government, and the many conflicts in the Church easily leave us feeling sad and despairing. The mental health crisis in our country deepens, as significant percentages of young people report long-term depression, strong feelings of hopelessness, and suicidal thoughts.
Pro-life community galvanizes in support of women and children
MADISON — The pro-life community in Wisconsin, and in particular that in the Madison area, is a closely bound group of individuals and organizations always willing and ready to protect, and speak up for, unborn children and walk hand-in-hand with women in crisis pregnancies. On September 18, approximately 100 of these women, children, and men representing the pro-life community gathered outside Planned Parenthood in Madison to protest peacefully at a Sanctity of Human Life Prayer Rally.
Society of St. Vincent de Paul in Madison welcomes senior director of human Resources
MADISON — This month, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul- Madison welcomed Elisha Santiago-Barudin as the organization’s first senior director of human resources. She will spearhead key initiatives in talent management and employee development while supporting a continued positive work environment across the non-profit’s program and retail operations. “I am thrilled to embark on this meaningful journey with the St. Vincent de Paul-Madison staff,” Santiago-Barudin said.
Bl. Carlo Acutis Academy prepares for second year
MADISON — On August 21, classes at Blessed Carlo Acutis Academy will begin. While that date is very near, Therese Milbrath, the assistant superintendent of Catholic Schools for the Diocese of Madison, said it is still not too late for parents to register their high schoolers for the virtual academy. “We can take registrations up until that time,” said Milbrath.
Fr. Roger Nilles dies
Fr. Roger Gabriel Nilles died on August 4, 2023, at the age of 90 at St. John’s on the Lake in Milwaukee. He was born on June 9, 1933, in Madison. Father Nilles is survived by many beloved nieces and nephews and predeceased by his parents, Mathias John and Anna Marie, née Omson, and his siblings: Ruth (Nilles) Dollhausen, James E. Nilles, and Joan (Nilles) Gebhardt.
Women focus on Eucharist at convention
LANCASTER — In her opening remarks to the women attending the 68th convention of the Madison Diocesan Council of Catholic Women (MDCCW) on June 27, President Linda Ripp said, “I love the theme of ‘Quilted Together in the Eucharist’.” The theme “makes me think of God’s creation and the quilt of blues and greens of the sky, water, trees, and plants and flowers of every color; and the beautiful feathers and fur designs of the birds and animals.
Longtime Catholic Herald Advertising Consultant Steve Hefty to retire
MADISON — After more than 22 years on the Catholic Herald staff as its advertising consultant, Steve Hefty will be retiring as of June 30. Hefty joined the Catholic Herald staff in December of 2000 after many years in the field of agricultural sales. Over the years, Hefty was honored with awards for his work from the Catholic Media Association (formerly known as the Catholic Press Association).
Sisters accept Tricon proposal to purchase several buildings
SINSINAWA — The Dominican Sisters of Sinsinawa have accepted Tricon Construction Group’s proposal to take the next steps toward ownership of several buildings at Sinsinawa Mound. Tricon proposes to renovate the space for an active senior living community and event center and to explore partnerships with local community organizations responding to human needs in the area.
Women invited to learn more about the Eucharist at MDCCW convention
LANCASTER — Linda Ripp, president of the Madison Diocesan Council of Catholic Women (MDCCW), invites women of the diocese to gather Tuesday, June 27, at St. Clement Church and hall, 135 S. Washington St., Lancaster, for its 68th convention to pray, socialize, and learn how other parishes are celebrating the Eucharist, charitable works, service, and prayerful celebrations.
Sainthood cause for man with Wisconsin ties
The cause for the canonization of Brother Joseph Dutton was recently opened. An area Civil War history enthusiast, Pete Skelly, has collected considerable knowledge of his life and was happy to share. Brother Joseph Dutton (then called Ira Dutton) was born in 1843 and grew up in Janesville. He was a busy kid and teenager, eager to learn, participated in gymnastics, was an assistant editor for a local newspaper, worked at a bookstore, volunteered as a fireman and militiaman — the list goes on.
Fr. William Robert Connell has died
Reverend Father William Robert Connell entered peacefully to eternal life on April 28, 2023 at the age of 73 at the SSM Health St. Mary’s Care Center, Madison, succumbing to a long battle with a neurological disorder. He was born on September 7, 1949 in Janesville, Wisconsin. Father Connell is survived by his siblings Barb Curtis; Jim (Janice); John (Phyllis); Mary Joan Rebout; Peg (Marc) Gaida; Marilyn Runaas; Carolyn (Jan) Peterson, and Mike (Terri).
Chesterton Academy to open in Sun Prairie
SUN PRAIRIE — A new high school is bringing classical Catholic education to the community of Sun Prairie. Chesterton Academy- Queen of Martyrs — named after the Catholic writer and apologist G.K. Chesterton and Our Lady Queen of Martyrs — is set to open in the fall of 2024. It promises to provide a unique and enriching educational experience for students.
Living our faith, one work of mercy at a time
BELOIT — At Our Lady of the Assumption (OLA) School in Beloit, the middle school students have been putting their faith into action through a year-long Works of Mercy Project. “While every religion teacher’s goal is to teach the Catholic religion, we all also challenge the students to live their faith in a meaningful way,” said Michele Twardowski, OLA middle school religion teacher.
Mama told me (not to come)
Jelly beans in the 1970s were sturdy and dry, their rainbow colors missing blue and disappointingly studded with somber white and black. They came only in these classic springtime flavors: Liquid Tylenol, Bar of Soap, Stinging Nettle, Paraffin, Smelly Marker, Vegetable Oil, and Ethylated Herb. Early Easters Easter was like those original jelly beans for me growing up: A rare novelty sprinkled with unpleasant tensions.
Vayan y Hagan Discípulos en vivo
No es raro encontrar personas en nuestras comunidades católicas que parecen ser católicos que simplemente se “llevan por las emociones” y practican la fe por obligación, sin pensarlo mucho. Es posible que hayamos escuchado a amigos y familiares decir, o incluso nosotros mismos creerlo: “Recibí mis sacramentos porque soy católico y eso es lo que hacemos como católicos”. Pero nuestros sacramentos son en realidad momentos de profunda gracia y encuentro con nuestro Señor.
Wisconsin Catholic Conference urges legislators to oppose abortion expansion
The Wisconsin Catholic Conference strongly urges legislators to oppose LRB-2151/1, legislation that would create an exception in Wisconsin’s statute permitting children conceived in rape and incest to be killed and expand abortion access in cases of fetal abnormality or risk to the mother. All human life is sacred, and every individual deserves the right to life regardless of how she or he was conceived.
Men’s retreat in Baraboo focuses on Mary’s trust and obedience
BARABOO — St. Joseph Parish in Baraboo held its annual men’s retreat on February 11 at Camp Gray in Reedsburg. More than 80 men were in attendance. Titled “Do Whatever He Tells You,” referencing Mary’s words at the Wedding Feast at Cana, the retreat focused on Mary’s role in salvation history. Featured speakers for the day retreat included Bishop Donald J. Hying of Madison; Fr. James Kubicki, SJ; and St. Joseph parishioner Pat Kash.
St. Maria Goretti Parish in Madison holds Advent Lessons and Carols
MADISON — December 11 saw St. Maria Goretti Church in Madison swell with Advent music and prayerful Advent readings. The St. Maria Goretti Choir presented an Advent Lessons and Carols to help parishioners in their spiritual preparation for Christmas. Celebrating the season The choir was directed by Marco Melendez and welcomed guest organist Michael Mills to support the singing.
Season celebrated with lessons and carols
MADISON — December 18 saw the Madison Diocesan Choir Advent Lessons and Carols back for the first time in three years. With beloved former director Dr. Patrick Gorman having passed away in 2021, the choir welcomed John Sittard as its new director. In addition to that, the choir was also physically located somewhere new — they sang from the choir loft, rather than from the front, in order to utilize the acoustics of the Holy Name Oratory at Holy Name Heights in Madison.
2023 annual St. Thomas Aquinas dinner and lecture
Each year, around the feast of St. Thomas Aquinas, Blessed Sacrament Parish in Madison hosts a dinner and lecture on a topic of spiritual interest. This year’s event is Thursday, January 26, at Blessed Sacrament Friary. Ed Futa will be speaking on his work with Rotary International and his own amazing conversion story. All Catholics throughout the Diocese of Madison are welcome to this evening of fellowship and learning.
Parish to host Advent mission and first class relic of St. Jude
MADISON — Fr. Andy McAlpin, OP, pastor of Blessed Sacrament Parish in Madison is inviting all of the faithful to a parish mission with Fr. Michail Ford, OP, director of the Dominican Shrine of St. Jude Thaddeus in Chicago. “Father Mike will preach at all of our Masses on November 26 and 27, and he will preach in the church at 7 p.m. on Monday and Tuesday, Nov. 28 and 29. The mission concludes on Wednesday, Nov.
Suann Saltzberry Named Director of Athletics at Edgewood College
MADISON — Edgewood College has appointed Suann Saltzberry, Associate Director of Athletics and Senior Woman Administrator, as its next Director of Athletics. Her appointment is effective immediately. “I look forward to engaging with student-athletes and coaches in this new role. I would like to thank President Manion for extending this incredible opportunity to lead the Eagles Athletic programs,” Saltzberry said.
Fr. Cy Weisensel dies
Fr. Cyril “Cy” Otto Weisensel entered eternal life on October 26, 2022, at the age of 81 years, at Sunset Ridge Memory Care in Jefferson. He was born on October 11, 1941 in Columbus. Father Weisensel is survived by his brothers: Bruce (Kathy) Weisensel, Jackson, MI; Wil (Susan) Weisensel, Jefferson; Mark (Rose) Weisensel, Oshkosh; G.
Eddie’s Hour provides students with a much-needed break
MADISON — Edgewood High School of the Sacred Heart in Madison introduced an uplifting new initiative this year. Taking into account the challenges students face, the school introduced the concept of “Eddie’s Hour.” This space of time in the school day was instituted to give students a break from their busy schedules. Jerry Zander, principal of Edgewood, described how Eddie’s Hour — named for the school’s mascot — started as a response to parental concern and student need.
Hundreds of pro-lifers participate in the Wisconsin March for Life
MADISON — Hundreds of pro-lifers from across the state gathered on the steps of the State Capitol in Madison on September 24 at the Wisconsin March for Life to celebrate a victory and to declare their battle not over yet. The celebration was over the U.S. Supreme Court’s Dobbs v. Jackson’s Women’s Health Organization decision on June 24 which overturned the 1973 Roe v.
Sauk County Respect Life Banquet to be held on October 13
SPRING GREEN — Richard Braun, president of the Sauk County Chapter of Wisconsin Right to Life, announced that the 2022 Respect Life Banquet will be held Thursday, Oct. 13, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Arthur’s Supper Club, E4885 U.S. Hwy. 14, Spring Green.
Pantry partnership covers back-to-school needs
MADISON — Two hundred local school children will have backpacks and school supplies thanks to a partnership between April-Aire and the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. “Back-to-school can be a really difficult time for families who are struggling to pay their bills,” Chris Kane, director of client services for St. Vincent de Paul-Madison, explained.
Two priests from India to serve in Diocese of Madison
MADISON — Two priests from the Diocese of Nellore, India, have begun serving at parishes in the Diocese of Madison. Fr. Jayaraj Kalivela was named the parochial vicar at St. Olaf Parish in DeForest and St. Joseph Parish in East Bristol. Father Kalivela was ordained in 2001 and has served as a pastor at parishes in the Diocese of Nellore as well as chancellor. Father Kalivela said he’s looking forward to “faith sharing” with people in the Diocese of Madison.
Statement of the Wisconsin Catholic Bishops on Dobbs V. Jackson Women’s Health Organization
June 24, 2022 Today the U.S. Supreme Court issued its opinion in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, overturning Roe v. Wade and Planned Parenthood v. Casey. This decision corrects a tragic wrong in our federal jurisprudence that has permitted the killing of millions of innocent human beings. In Wisconsin alone, approximately 600,000 unique lives were taken, each created in God’s image and loved for all eternity.
Statement from Bishop Donald Hying, regarding Supreme Court decision to overturn Roe v. Wade and our need for continued support of moms in need
“Every human life, unique and unrepeatable, has value in and of itself; it is of inestimable value. This must always be proclaimed anew with the courage of the Word and the courage of actions.
The vocation of the laity in the Church and in the world
As he is about to ascend into heaven, Our Lord Jesus commissions his disciples to carry forward the mission of the Church, which is essentially the continuation of His own threefold mission as Priest, Prophet, and King. The triple mission of Christ The Letter of St. Paul to the Hebrews describes Jesus as our High-Priest according to the order of Melchizedek (Heb 5:10). The role of a priest is to offer sacrifice.
Pentecost novena to be prayed in diocese
MADISON — Bishop Donald J. Hying of Madison is asking everyone in the Diocese of Madison to pray a novena ahead of the feast of Pentecost, which is on Sunday, June 5.
Celebrating Rural Life
Sunday, May 15, was the feast of Sts. Isidore and his wife Maria, the patrons of farmers and rural life. They lived in Spain near Madrid in the 11th century, and worked as agricultural laborers, their lives marked by a deep Catholic faith, an intense piety, a love for the poor and for nature, as well as a strong work ethic.
St. James School celebrates 115 years
MADISON — One of the oldest Catholic schools in the Diocese of Madison will conclude a year of observing its 115th birthday with a celebration Sunday, June 5, at the church and school, 1204 St. James Ct., Madison. Msgr. Thomas Baxter, retired, and Fr. David Carrano, pastor, will concelebrate Mass at 10:30 a.m., followed by brunch and school open house. School alumni and friends are invited “to reminisce, celebrate and pray together.” The cost is $10 for brunch, mimosas, entertainment, and a gift.
Rural Life Mass and blessing set for Sunday, May 15
FOOTVILLE — Mark your calendar for Sunday, May 15, and join Bishop Donald J. Hying of Madison for a Mass and Blessing for Rural Life and the upcoming planting season throughout the Diocese of Madison. The rural life community will gather to celebrate the feast day of Ss. Isidore and Maria, the patron saints of farmers and producers of food, fuel, and fiber at St. Augustine Parish in Footville.
Online mental health course
One in four people will be affected by a mental health problem at some point in their lives, yet the stigma surrounding mental illness silences many. The Diocese of Madison has partnered with the Association of Catholic Mental Health Ministers whose goal is to envision a future where the Church plays a vital role in supporting mental health and wellbeing in every community. Deacon Ed Shoener from Scranton, Pa., is the president of the association.
Hundreds of people offer up thousands of prayers at Janesville Pray-A-Thon
4K students from St. John Vianney School in Janesville participate in the three-day Pray-A-Thon at St. John Vianney Parish. (Contributed Photo) JANESVILLE — The days of March 30 to April 1 marked a time of generosity and faith as more than 600 people came to pray at St. John Vianney Parish in Janesville.
Looking at today’s Church in the diocese
Currently, every vicariate in the diocese is meeting with me to give an update on the Go Make Disciples initiative in the parishes. The priests, along with their lay leadership, are sharing with me both the details of their evangelizing plan and some of the initial fruits.
St. Joseph Men’s Retreat set for April 30
BARABOO — “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 lo, I am with you always, to the close of the age.” (Matthew 28:19-20) The theme of this year’s men’s retreat is “Mission Focused” — based on Matthew 28:19-20. Bishop Donald J.
Pray-A-Thon invites all to prayer
A collection box inside of St. John Vianney Church in Janesville for prayer intentions ahead of the St. John Pray-A-Thon from March 30 to April 1. (Contributed photo) JANESVILLE — Starting Wednesday, March 30, and running through Friday, April 1, St. John Vianney Parish in Janesville is hosting the St. John Pray-A-Thon.
Support your Church through the Annual Catholic Appeal
In one way or another, every Catholic in the Diocese of Madison has benefited from the Annual Catholic Appeal (ACA) and the apostolates, ministries, and programs funded by its generous donors. Through the sacraments, the formation of our priests and lay leaders, we support individuals and have been supported ourselves, from our Baptism into the Christ’s Church, through childhood, our teen and young adult years, into and throughout adulthood, and even into eternal life.
Peaceful, prayerful effective spring 40 Days for Life campaign to build on successes in Madison
MADISON — “The highly successful 40 Days for Life Spring campaign returns to Madison with 40 days of prayer and fasting, peaceful vigil, and community outreach,” said Gwen Finnegan, who is coordinating the local campaign. “This Spring campaign will begin on Wednesday, March 2, and end on Sunday, April 10. Our hours of coverage will be from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Monday to Saturday (no Sunday hours).
Servant leadership at Blessed Sacrament School
Pastor Fr. Andy McAlpin, OP, blesses boxes for a service project at Blessed Sacrament School in Madison. (Contributed photo) MADISON — Blessed Sacrament School in Madison nurtures servant leadership beginning in three-year-old kindergarten all the way through eighth grade. Each trimester, an all-school service project involves each and every student.
Christmas message from Bishop Donald J. Hying of Madison
I wish all of the priests, deacons, Religious and consecrated persons, lay ecclesial ministers, and the lay faithful of our Madison Diocese the deepest joy, love, and mercy of Christ, made manifest in the beauty of the Incarnation. The light of Jesus’ coming has made the darkness vanish! As we move deeper into our Go Make Disciples evangelizing initiative, I am inspired and heartened by the many people of our diocese who devotedly love the Lord and seek to spread the saving power of the Gospel.
New stained glass window at Cross Plains parish
A rendering of part of the new stained glass window at St. Francis Xavier Parish in Cross Plains. (Contributed image) CROSS PLAINS — A new stained glass window will be going in above the reredos wall behind the altar at St. Francis Xavier Parish in Cross Plains. According to Fr. Scott Jablonski, current pastor of St. Francis Xavier, “I am the beneficiary of the work by my predecessor.
Diocesan priest works to restore Endeavor Guadalupe Shrine
The mosaic of Our Lady of Guadalupe was originally pieced together by two Sinsinawa Dominican Sisters in 1964. The grotto it rests on was the first structure on the property to be restored. (Contributed Photo) ENDEAVOR — In Columbia County in the small town of Endeavor, a small shrine has sat neglected, overgrown, and mostly forgotten for decades.
Lay Dominicans install new members
Members of the Madison Chapter of Lay Dominicans who were recently received into the Order or made promises. In the front row, from left, are: Joseph Walkowski and Jared Dembrun. In the middle row, from left, are: Nicholas Eastman, Colleen Martine, and Rachel Dembrun. In the top row, from left, are: Sarah Krans and Evan Williams.
Jubilee Mass for Fr. Donald Lange on September 12
BENTON — Fr. Donald Lange, a retired priest of the Diocese of Madison, will celebrate his 50th jubilee Mass on Sunday, Sept. 12, at 10 a.m. at St. Patrick Church in Benton, 237 E. Main St. Father Lange was ordained a priest on May 23, 1970. St. Patrick Parish was the location of his first assignment as a pastor. While his 50th anniversary of ordination was last year, he was unable to celebrate it because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Wisconsin Catholic charities coordinate aid for Afghan arrivals, request help
From the Wisconsin Catholic Conference MADISON — “When we learned families would be coming to Fort McCoy, which is located within our Diocese, we knew we could help,” said Karen Becker, Development Director for Catholic Charities of the Diocese of La Crosse. “We immediately went into action collecting donations.
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