In this episode of ‘Connecting the Diocese,’ Monsignor Joseph Hirsch and Noel Furger discuss the profound impact of Casa Hogar Juan Pablo II in Peru, a mission founded by Father Joseph Walijewski. They delve into the origins, mission, and ongoing work of Casa Hogar, highlighting Father Walijewski’s dedication to the poor and his innovative ‘reverse mission’ approach, which brings American volunteers to Peru. Additionally, they explore the Father Joseph Walijewski Legacy Guild and ongoing efforts toward his canonization.

00:34 The Founding of Casa Hogar Juan Pablo II

03:13 Father Joe’s Missionary Journey

04:28 The Connection with the Diocese of La Crosse

07:05 Father Joe’s Legacy and Successors

10:48 Reverse Mission Concept

13:33 Personal Stories and Impact

18:40 Celebrating the Mother Church of the Catholic Church

29:06 Father Sebastian’s Journey and Daily Life at Casa Hogar

32:28 The Family Model at Casa Hogar

34:23 The Father Joe Legacy Guild

40:21 The Canonization Process of Father Joe

48:35 The Mission and Future of Casa Hogar

51:53 How to Support Casa Hogar

53:56 The Impact and Evangelization Efforts of Casa Hogar

56:29 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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In this special edition of ‘Connecting the Diocese,’ join us as we honor our beloved dead and discuss the significance of All Saints Day and All Souls Day. Monsignor Steven Kachel of St. Patrick Parish in Onalaska shares insights on the importance of these solemnities, the role of saints in the Catholic faith, and their impact on our spiritual journey. Monsignor Kachel also delves into the process of canonization, the concept of the communion of saints, and how we can draw inspiration from the lives of saints, both canonized and not. Plus, a reflection on Pope Francis’ encyclical ‘Fratelli Tutti,’ emphasizing the value of every human life and the need for unity in today’s world. Don’t miss this enriching conversation on faith, perseverance, and the universal call to holiness.

00:40 Understanding All Saints Day

02:03 Canonization and Communion of Saints

03:30 Inspiration from the Lives of Saints

08:33 Celebrating All Saints Day

09:16 Personal Favorite Saints

16:54 Difference Between Venerating Saints and Worshiping God

19:44 Reflection on Fratelli Tutti

25:24 Perseverance Through Suffering and Temptation

27:30 Relating to Saints from the Past

30:22 The Power of Prayer and Outreach

31:02 Transformation and Imperfection of Saints

32:40 The Little Way and Childlike Faith

34:23 Devotion to the Eucharist and Mary

37:07 All Saints Day and All Souls Day

41:34 Newly Canonized Saints

47:56 The Importance of Praying for the Dead

50:45 Understanding Purgatory

56:28 Final Thoughts on Life, Death, and Eternal Communion

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Welcome to this episode of Connecting the Diocese where we discuss the intersection of Catholic faith and medical practice. In this episode, host Clint Berge speaks with Dr. Steve Pavela about his journey as a Catholic physician, the importance of integrating faith into healthcare, and the role of the Catholic Medical Association. They delve into the influence of faith on patient care, the significance of viewing medicine as a vocation, and the challenges of upholding conscience rights in a secular medical system. The episode also explores ways for medical professionals and laypeople to support those who care for the sick and vulnerable. Along with discussing the Respect Life Month novena, they provide insights on how Catholic healthcare professionals can remain committed to their faith. Join us for an enlightening conversation on living and practicing faith within the medical field.

00:25 Catholic Medicine and Faith

00:48 Dr. Steve Pavela’s Background

02:34 Integrating Faith in Medical Practice

03:36 Medicine as a Vocation

04:43 Faith’s Impact on Patient Care

06:41 Advice for Young Doctors

17:39 Respect Life Month Novena

19:41 Reflection on Life by USCCB

25:24 Catholic Medical Association Overview

30:06 Welcoming All Healthcare Professionals

30:44 Supporting Catholic Medical Professionals

34:10 Conscience Rights in Medical Practice

36:07 Faith and Recovery from Substance Abuse

46:23 The Importance of Faith in Healthcare

51:40 Supporting Healthcare Workers and the Vulnerable

58:11 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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Join us on ‘Connecting the Diocese’ as we delve into the significance of World Mission Sunday, celebrated on the 29th Sunday of Ordinary Time. Father Woody Pace, director of the Mission Office for the Diocese of La Crosse and pastor of Holy Name Parish, highlights the theme ‘Missionaries of Hope among all people.’ Discover the historical roots, current challenges, and incredible impact of missionary work as we discuss the efforts to build churches, support priests, and serve fragile communities worldwide. Learn how your prayers and contributions on this special day can make a global difference.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:24 Understanding World Mission Sunday

02:42 The Jubilee Year of Hope

04:28 Mission Work and Personal Stories

19:21 The Legacy of Pope St. John Paul II

29:51 Challenges and Characteristics of Mission Territories

33:20 The Importance of World Mission Sunday

35:38 The Church’s Missionary Nature

38:06 Personal Stories from Father Woody Pace

42:56 Upcoming Events in the Diocese

45:46 The Role of Prayer and Financial Support

50:43 Stories of Hope and Challenges in Mission Territories

56:58 Ways to Support Missionary Work

59:07 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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Join Clint Berge on ‘Connecting the Diocese’ as he sits down with Father Alan Guanella, the Judicial Vicar of the Diocese of La Crosse. In this episode, Father Guanella offers a deep dive into the often unseen work of the Diocesan Tribunal. The discussion covers the tribunal’s roles, its importance in matters of church law and pastoral care, and the intricate legal and spiritual processes involved in declaring the nullity of marriages. Father Guanella also shares his personal journey from parish pastor to Judicial Vicar, his canon law studies, and the pastoral care embedded in church law. The episode also touches on the power of the rosary and offers reflections from St. Francis de Sales on marriage. Tune in to explore the compassionate and judicial sides of church law and discover how the tribunal’s work aligns with the Church’s mission of mercy and truth.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

01:02 Exploring the Diocesan Tribunal

01:38 Father Alan Guanella’s Journey

02:08 Understanding Canon Law

03:56 Role of the Judicial Vicar

06:08 Canon Law in Practice

10:08 Differences Between Secular and Canonical Courts

13:22 Competency and Precedent in Church Courts

17:25 Promulgation of Law in the Diocese

19:16 Tips for Praying the Rosary

24:38 Canon Lawyers in the Diocese

28:25 Healing and Reconciliation in the Parish

29:27 Understanding the Marriage Nullity Process

31:30 The Role of the Defender of the Bond

33:38 Supporting Marriages in the Church

35:58 Misconceptions About Annulments

37:38 The Importance of Consent in Marriage

47:37 Canon Law and Pastoral Care

56:07 Final Thoughts and Takeaway Message

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Join us this October, Respect Life Month, as we delve into the profound and compassionate world of Rachel Ministries on Connecting the Diocese. In this episode, host, Clint Berge is joined by Amy Mulhern and Jennifer Fisk, who share the mission and workings of Rachel Ministries, which includes Project Rachel and Rachel’s Vineyard. They discuss the vital support and healing provided to men and women suffering from the emotional and spiritual loss of abortion and miscarriage. Personal stories of healing, the importance of walking with those in pain, and the role of spiritual direction in recovery are highlighted. Discover the deep impact of Rachel’s Vineyard retreats and how they integrate God’s word and compassion into the healing process. This episode also touches on the broader theme of the Church’s pro-life mission, examining how Rachel Ministries fits into this vision by bringing hope and restoration to the lives of many. Learn how to support, pray for, and reach out to those affected. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation on healing, love, and the sanctity of life.

00:00 Introduction and Respect Life Month

00:54 Rachel Ministries Overview

02:55 Personal Stories and Involvement

07:28 The Importance of Rachel Ministries

11:07 Who Can Participate in Rachel Ministries?

18:42 Upcoming Rachel’s Vineyard Retreats

25:48 Mass of Hope and Healing

30:36 Future of the Mass of Hope and Healing

31:30 The Journey of Healing

33:36 Understanding Project Rachel

33:58 Reaching Out for Help

37:27 The Process of Healing

41:56 The Importance of Prayer and the Rosary

47:41 Rachel’s Vineyard Retreats

57:40 Conclusion and Contact Information

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Join Clint Berge on this special edition of Connecting the Diocese with guests Bishop William Patrick Callahan, Father Conrad Targonski, and Sister Sarah Hennessy as they delve into the influence of St. Francis of Assisi on their spiritual journeys. Explore their personal stories and the significance of Franciscan values like joy, simplicity, and poverty. Discover how these principles can inspire and guide your faith and family life.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

01:15 Bishop Callahan’s Journey with St. Francis

04:56 Father Conrad’s Franciscan Influence

07:27 Sister Sarah’s Spiritual Journey

08:46 Franciscan Values and Stories

13:58 The Canticle of the Creatures

18:45 Living Franciscan Virtues Today

31:35 The Joy of Franciscan Life

33:35 Embracing God’s Plan and Family

34:35 Franciscan Humor and Parish Life

35:04 Creation and Beauty in Franciscan Thought

37:52 St. Clare’s Influence and Franciscan Stories

44:10 Discernment and Following God’s Call

50:50 The Franciscan Family and Mission

53:35 Final Reflections and Blessing

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In this episode of Connecting the Diocese, host Clint Berge sits down with Monsignor Michael Gorman, one of the Diocese of La Crosse’s newest senior priests. Monsignor Gorman shares his journey to the priesthood, shaped by his upbringing on a family farm and his early experiences serving Mass. The discussion covers his involvement in rural life, his various roles within the Diocese, and his deep appreciation for the liturgy. Monsignor Gorman also reflects on the spiritual lessons of farming, the importance of traditions, and his ongoing commitment to his priestly duties even in senior priest status.

00:00 Welcome

00:35 Monsignor Gorman’s Early Life on the Farm

04:54 Discovering the Call to Priesthood

07:33 The Significance of Threshing Day and Holy Thursday

13:48 Roles and Responsibilities in the Diocese

19:48 The Intersection of Machinery and Liturgy

21:04 Faith and Farming: A Deeper Connection

23:00 The Spiritual Rhythm of the Liturgical Year

24:39 Patience in the Christian Life

25:32 The Cycles and Changes in Farming

26:41 Advancements in Agricultural Science

29:21 The Parable of the Sower

31:15 Farming Imagery in Faith

32:54 Challenges in Modern Vocations

38:43 The Importance of Family and Faith

42:21 Transitioning to Senior Priest Status

44:31 Reflections on a Lifetime of Service

46:56 Conclusion and Farewell

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In this episode of ‘Connecting the Diocese,’ host Clint Berge welcomes Nodji Van Wychen, a third-generation cranberry grower and owner of Wetherby Cranberry Company. Nodji shares the rich history of her family’s cranberry farm, which has been operating since 1903, and discusses the importance of sustaining family legacies in farming. As the host of this year’s Rural Life Day, Nodji details the unique aspects of cranberry farming, the innovations in the industry, and the deep-rooted faith that guides their work. Highlights include insights into the cranberry growing process, future generations’ involvement, and the special activities planned for Rural Life Day, including a unique cranberry-filled floating cross.

00:00 Welcome to Connecting the Diocese

00:23 Meet the Cranberry Growers: Jim and Nodji Van Wychen

00:44 The Legacy of Wetherby Cranberry Company

03:42 Modern Cranberry Farming Techniques

04:51 Unique Aspects of Cranberry Farming

06:52 Preparing for Rural Life Day

12:22 Faith and Farming: A Deep Connection

16:59 Hosting Rural Life Day: An Honor and a Celebration

26:35 Looking Forward: The Future of Cranberry Farming

30:04 Join Us for Rural Life Day

32:11 Closing Remarks and Farewell

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In this episode of ‘Connecting the Diocese,’ Clint Berge is joined by Father Steven Weller, the Director of Vocations for the Catholic Diocese of La Crosse, Wisconsin. They discuss the meaning of vocations, the different forms they can take, and Father Weller’s own journey to the priesthood. Father Weller shares his insights and experiences, providing guidance for those discerning their own vocations. This episode also explores how families and parishes can support vocational discernment and the role of prayer in this sacred process. Join us as we dive into the importance of answering God’s call and the beauty of the priesthood.

00:00 Introduction and Gospel Reflection

00:32 Meet Father Steven Weller

01:15 A Day in the Life of a Vocations Director

02:23 Father Steven’s Vocation Journey

06:06 The Role of Encouragement in Vocations

13:18 Challenges and Patience in Discernment

17:48 The First Heresy and Modern Challenges

21:59 First Month in Seminary: A Personal Journey

22:57 The Role of Discernment in Vocations

23:29 Success in Seminary: Beyond Becoming a Priest

25:28 Family Influence on Vocations

28:04 Parish Support for Vocations

29:33 The Power of Prayer in Discernment

32:05 Qualities of Those Called to Priesthood

39:49 Encouraging Vocations: Practical Steps

42:28 Reaching Out: How to Begin Your Vocation Journey

44:07 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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