Thank you to all the people who participated in the events of Catholic Schools Week. Your time and effort given for this annual celebration is deeply appreciated. Thank you to Bishop Barron for celebrating the liturgy with all the students on February 3 at St. Stan’s.
I wish safe travels to all who are a part of the upcoming pilgrimage to the Holy Land hosted by Brian Singer-Towns and Krissy Coudron. You are in my prayers for a safe journey. Julie, Bert, and Rachel, on the parish staff, are a part of the pilgrimage, along with a few of our parishioners. I know it will be a special time for them and the entire group. I enjoyed my time there—way back in 1993 as a seminarian.
Next month, I will be away for a week in Paoli, Pennsylvania, as part of the Voluntas Dei Institute of which I am a stable and vowed member. During the week, I will also spend some time visiting my sister and her husband in Georgia.
Even in the midst of these travels and absences, the parish office stands ready to assist you in whatever way possible. Don’t hesitate to contact the parish office at (452-5656) or my mobile phone at 507-236-5485 for any matter that needs attention.
The Annual Ministry Appeal begins February 18-19. Bishop Barron and I ask for your support of his important diocesan ministries by giving generously once again. St. Mary’s has a strong history of support for this annual effort. Last year we exceeded our goal by nearly $50,000. Those proceeds will be used for the eventual enhancements to our church sanctuary (flooring, altar, pulpit, presider’s chair, etc.). The 2023 overage this year will also be earmarked for that project.
The parish received a letter of thanks from Amanda Hedlund, executive director of Habitat for Humanity serving Winona County. She wrote to thank the parish for a $1,000 donation for their work. It is a blessing that the parish and its members are able to support Habitat with time, talent, and treasure.