Join us on this episode of ‘Connecting the Diocese’ as we sit down with Christy Kitzhaber, the Natural Family Planning (NFP) Coordinator for the Diocese of La Crosse. With Natural Family Planning Week kicking off on July 20th, Christy delves into the foundations and benefits of NFP, detailing her role in providing NFP training, answering critical questions, and helping couples navigate this natural approach to family planning. Through heartfelt discussions, we explore how NFP differs from artificial contraception, its spiritual significance, and how it fosters better communication and intimacy in marriages. Christy also addresses common challenges couples may face and provides advice on overcoming them. This comprehensive conversation offers valuable insights for anyone interested in understanding NFP’s role in creating responsible parenthood and enriched marital relationships.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:31 Role and Responsibilities of an NFP Coordinator

01:49 Understanding Natural Family Planning (NFP)

03:31 Church’s Perspective on NFP vs. Contraception

08:05 NFP for Achieving Pregnancy

11:45 Different Methods of NFP

15:23 Impact of NFP on Marital Communication and Intimacy

18:30 Challenges and Encouragement in Practicing NFP

34:52 Resources and Support for NFP

43:00 Personal Reflections and Conclusion

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

In this episode of Connecting the Diocese, host Clint Berge interviews John Schmidt, Co-Director of Disciple Formation at St. Anne Parish in Wausau, Wisconsin. They discuss the significance of the upcoming National Catholic Youth Conference (NCYC) in November 2025, an event that aims to inspire and deepen the faith of middle and high school youths. John provides an in-depth overview of his role, the importance of accompanying youth in their faith journeys, and the various activities and spiritual experiences that attendees can expect at NCYC. He emphasizes the long-term impact this conference can have on both participants and their local communities and shares stories of previous events that have touched lives profoundly. Learn how you can register your youth and the importance of preparing parish communities for the returned fervor of their young attendees.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:34 Meet John Schmidt: Co-Director of Disciple Formation

00:54 The Role and Passion of a Youth Minister

02:47 The Importance of Evangelizing Youth

03:39 Introduction to NCYC: National Catholic Youth Conference

07:35 The Significance of Sacraments at NCYC

12:47 A Day in the Life at NCYC

17:02 The Impact of NCYC on Youth and Community

18:49 Historical Participation and Personal Experiences

23:27 Encouraging Teens to Attend NCYC

24:52 The Impact of NCYC on Teen Faith

27:02 Experiencing Adoration at NCYC

30:20 Long-Term Effects of NCYC

33:09 Preparing Parishes for Returning Teens

40:36 The Role of Disciple Formation

45:11 Authenticity in Youth Faith

47:32 Concluding Thoughts and Registration Details

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Join Clint Berge on ‘Connecting the Diocese’ this 4th of July weekend as he explores the inspiring stories of John Francis, a seminarian from the Catholic Diocese of La Crosse, and Chris Neuens from the Hagar House in Wausau, Wisconsin. John shares his journey from seminary student to biking missionary, embarking on a 600-mile ride to support pregnancy resource centers through Biking for Babies. Learn about the mission of the Hagar House, a Christ-centered home for single moms, and the incredible transformations it facilitates. Discover how faith, community, and dedication can make a profound impact on supporting life and uplifting those in need. Tune in to hear about the importance of prayer, volunteerism, and tangible support for local pregnancy resource centers.

00:00 Introduction

01:05 Meet John Francis: Seminarian Journey

02:18 Biking for Babies: Mission and Purpose

06:05 The Hagar House: A Sanctuary for Single Moms

07:24 Faith and Transformation at the Hagar House

10:11 Challenges and Rewards of the Mission

11:38 The Impact of Pregnancy Resource Centers

15:01 The Spiritual Journey of Biking for Babies

19:28 Support and Encouragement for John

22:18 Supporting Pregnancy Resource Centers

24:46 The Role of Hagar House

25:38 Importance of Post-Pregnancy Support

26:32 Personal Journey and Pro-Life Advocacy

29:05 The Priestly Call and Pro-Life Movement

32:13 Ways to Support Pregnancy Resource Centers

36:58 Biking for Babies: Mission and Impact

41:31 Concluding Thoughts and Gratitude

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Join us for an engaging conversation on ‘Connecting the Diocese’ with Dustin and Dominique Luecke. Dustin, a morning anchor at WXOW and Dominique, an advancement and grant specialist at the Family and Children’s Center, share their journey through faith, careers, and family life. They discuss the challenges and rewards of their professions, the importance of community service, and their roles as parents imparting Catholic faith to their children. Dustin and Dominique also delve into their personal backgrounds, how they met, and the pivotal moments that shaped their faith journeys. Don’t miss this insightful dialogue that touches on overcoming life’s adversities, sharing faith through actions, and balancing public and private lives in service to God and community.

00:00 Introduction and Casual Conversation
01:07 Starting the Interview: Meet Dustin and Dominique
02:00 Dustin’s Journey to Becoming a News Anchor
05:01 Dominique’s Role at the Family and Children’s Center
07:00 How Dustin and Dominique Met
10:07 Faith and Family Life
22:25 Balancing Work and Personal Beliefs
24:33 Handling Difficult News Stories
31:07 Stories of Hope and Resilience
36:01 Meeting People Where They’re At
36:46 Balancing Public Life and Faith
39:44 Community Service and Recognition
46:20 Family and Faith
52:09 Encouraging Faith in Others
56:01 Concluding Thoughts and Farewell

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Discover how a civil engineering graduate’s path took an unexpected turn towards priesthood after a life-changing encounter at a SEEK conference. Father David Nowicki shares his remarkable transformation from technical professional to spiritual leader, highlighting how God works in mysterious ways.

In this deeply personal conversation, Father Nowicki reflects on his ordination experience, including a touching moment during the Gloria that moved him to tears. He discusses the beautiful parallel between priesthood and marriage, the profound influence of his father’s faith, and the special moment of presenting sacred gifts to his parents during his ordination.

The episode offers unique insights into the challenges and joys of first-year priesthood, emphasizing the importance of embracing God’s call despite societal pressures. Father Nowicki’s story demonstrates how following even the smallest spiritual inclination can lead to profound fulfillment.

Ready to be inspired by an extraordinary journey of faith and transformation? Listen to this episode of “Connecting the Diocese” to hear Father Nowicki’s full story of answering God’s call.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Discover the extraordinary story of Father Joseph Richards and his father, Deacon Joseph Richards, as they share their intertwining paths of faith and service. From carpentry workshops to holy orders, their relationship exemplifies how the Holy Spirit works in mysterious ways across generations.

In this deeply moving conversation, Deacon Richards reveals his remarkable journey of discernment, while his son Father Joseph shares how FOCUS missionary work and family influence shaped his path to priesthood. Their shared love for woodworking serves as a touching metaphor for how their faith was crafted and strengthened over time.

Listen to this inspiring episode to witness a unique father-son relationship that bridges both earthly and spiritual fatherhood, demonstrating how faith can truly run in the family.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Discover the powerful intersection of personal calling and divine purpose as Bishop Gerard Battersby shares his remarkable journey through priesthood. From his late vocation to his current role in ordaining new priests, Bishop Battersby offers intimate insights into the transformative power of religious service.

This episode weaves together profound reflections on Pentecost, the sacrament of Confirmation, and the vital role of the Holy Spirit in Catholic life. Bishop Battersby adds depth to the conversation by drawing compelling parallels between priestly life and marriage, emphasizing the importance of self-donation and authentic love.

Key highlights include:

• The significance of May in Bishop Battersby’s religious journey
• The enduring sacramental bond formed during ordination
• Fresh perspectives on Confirmation as a beginning, not an end
• Practical guidance for deepening one’s relationship with the Holy Spirit
• The importance of authentic witness in evangelization

If you’re seeking wisdom on spiritual transformation, genuine discipleship, and the living presence of the Holy Spirit in today’s world, this episode offers invaluable insights and inspiration. Tune in to experience this enriching discussion about faith, service, and divine connection.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Ever felt disconnected during Mass or struggled with understanding religious practices? The Renewal Project, an innovative initiative from the Catholic Diocese of La Crosse, offers a fresh approach to deepening your faith. Director Chris Rogers shares how this project moves beyond traditional checklists to provide flexible, personalized paths for spiritual growth.

Drawing inspiration from Bishop Battersby’s vision of spiritual renewal, the project encourages Catholics to explore the meaningful “why” behind their faith practices. Whether you’re new to Catholicism or a lifelong practitioner, you’ll find resources ranging from basic prayers to advanced teachings, all designed to meet you where you are in your spiritual journey.

The initiative emphasizes that stumbling blocks like self-esteem issues or time management struggles are normal parts of faith development. It’s not about perfection, but about persistent growth and authentic engagement with Christ.

Ready to transform your spiritual journey from obligation to inspiration? Listen to this episode of Connecting the Diocese to learn how the Renewal Project can help you discover a deeper, more meaningful relationship with your faith.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Discover the profound impact of recognizing Jesus in everyday encounters, as Fr. Sam Martin shares powerful insights about faith, vulnerability, and human connection. This episode takes an unexpected turn with a discussion about the election of the first American pope, but delves deeper into how personal encounters can transform our spiritual journey.

Through touching stories of a compassionate coach, a resilient boy who became a cardinal, and the inspiring example of Giuseppe Moscati who saw Christ in his patients, the conversation illuminates how love and authentic presence can bridge divides and heal wounds. Fr. Martin vulnerably shares his own struggles, demonstrating how embracing our imperfections leads to deeper faith and connection.

The episode explores how to remain present in an increasingly digital world, drawing wisdom from figures like Mother Teresa and St. Therese of Lisieux. Their examples teach us to find holiness in daily challenges and to love those who are difficult to love.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

In an extraordinary episode of Connecting the Diocese, Bishop Gerard Battersby joins Clint Berge to discuss the groundbreaking election of Pope Leo XIV – the first American pope in history. Cardinal Robert Prevost’s journey from humble Chicago roots to the papacy, including his transformative work in Peru, takes center stage in this compelling conversation.

Bishop Battersby shares personal insights into the significance of having an American pope and the unexpected enthusiasm from both Catholics and non-Catholics alike. He draws fascinating parallels between Pope Leo XIV and St. Leo the Great, while exploring how the new pope’s background uniquely positions him to address modern challenges facing the Church.

The discussion weaves through themes of social teaching, spiritual warfare, and the Church’s mission to the marginalized, all while emphasizing the divine continuity in papal succession. Bishop Battersby’s personal reflections offer a unique perspective on this historic transition in Church leadership.

Join us for this powerful conversation about faith, leadership, and the exciting new chapter in Catholic history with the election of America’s first pope.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download