Archive for July 2019
Fr. Berhorst ordained to Priesthood; told by bishop to reconcile, heal
The Church stands to benefit profoundly from the witness of a new generation of priests. Entering a broader mission field in thinner numbers, these new priests will play an essential role in helping God reconcile, heal and unite His people. “You are a providential sign of hope for us, who are in need of even…
Read MoreJuly 22, 2019
As a reminder: Bishop’s prayer intention for August Breaking the Silence of Abuse – resources for bulletins and web. Also, please publicize upcoming Protecting God’s Children (Virtus) workshops. Notices Carla McDaniel has accepted the position of Administrative Assistant for the Vocations and Development Offices. For almost 15 years, Carla served in the development office of…
Read MoreFR. MERZ — The flesh is the hinge of salvation
If you ever have religious conversations with our Protestant brothers and sisters, chances are you’ve been asked why Catholics insist on keeping Christ on the cross. Protestant places of worship will prominently display a cross, but not a crucifix. Sometimes even Catholics shy away from the crucifix, especially if it’s too graphic with blood and…
Read MoreLocal deacons serve as bridges in wake of tornado, floods
Bishop W. Shawn McKnight once wrote that deacons “should work to connect the people of God with their local leader, the bishop, and the Church with the needs of the poor … drawing Church leaders, ordinary believers, and people on the margins of society closer together.” Recent natural disasters have affirmed this for several deacons…
Read MoreJuly 15, 2019
Bishop’s message The appeal for our diocesan Missions is set for the weekend of July 20-21. We have many resources to help parishes promote this collection, which gives each of us an opportunity to reflect on the question of who is our neighbor. You can find a letter from me in English and Spanish, graphics…
Read MoreSSM Health-St. Mary’s presents $25,000 gift for disaster relief
SSM Health-St. Mary’s Hospitals in Jefferson City and Audrain County recently donated $25,000 to the Catholic Charities of Central and Northern Missouri’s Disaster Relief Fund, citing a renewed emphasis on inter-agency collaboration following a catastrophic tornado and ongoing flooding in the area. Bishop W. Shawn McKnight and Sister Kathleen Wegman of the School Sisters of…
Read MoreRally celebrates birthdays that will happen thanks to new law
“A woman who was conceived in an act of violence against her mother has a message for people who think there should be exceptions in laws regulating abortion. “I did not deserve the death penalty for the crime of my biological father,” Rebecca Kiessling cried out during the MOBirthday Celebration Rally in the State Capitol…
Read MoreThe keys to Daddy’s Cadillac
We may not be helping people determine how to invest millions of dollars, but we do have a responsibility to safeguard something also very valuable…
Read MoreMAKING CONNECTIONS — Mass intentions and offerings
“What is an offering for a Mass intention? For some, their first encounter with a Mass offering is at a funeral service. There’s those piles of envelopes, obviously meant for money, with the option of writing down the name of the deceased for a Mass to be offered for the repose of their soul.” Bishop…
Read MoreFather Jason Doke to serve as moderator of the curia
“Father Jason T. Doke understands a moderator to be someone who brings unity and clear direction to people who work together for a common purpose. In his case, those people are members of the diocesan curia, the administrative apparatus of the Church. Bishop W. Shawn McKnight has appointed Fr. Doke to serve as moderator of…
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