ALL THINGS NEW
A Message from Bishop Patrick Neary
Bishop Neary offers an important reflection on the current realities in our Diocese and how we are called to move forward together in faith.
We encourage you to stay informed with the All Things New: Pastoral Planning Process unfolding across the Diocese - especially within our own Area Catholic Community (ACC).
Let us continue to ask the Holy Spirit for wisdom and pray with hope and trust in God's plan.
Updates specific to our ACC can be found below.
Action Steps / Phases for Planning
Phase 1: Assessment and Planning (March 2025 - December 2025)
- June - August 2025:
- Analyze data and identify parishes with low attendance and sustainability challenges.
- Define initial consolidation scenarios and options for optimizing Mass schedules.
- September - December 2025:
- Finalize a draft proposal for parish mergers and Mass reductions.
- Communicate findings and recommendations to parishioners.
Phase 2: Implementation Preparation (January 2026 - June 2026)
- January 2026 - March 2026:
- Announce decisions regarding parish mergers and Mass schedules.
- Develop transition plans, including financial, legal and pastoral considerations.
- April - June 2026
- Develop a communications plan to ensure smooth transitions.
- Establish lay ministry training programs to increase engagement in liturgical and parish life.
Phase 3: Implementation & Transition (July 2026 - December 2026)
- July - September 2026:
- Begin consolidation of Masses according to the approved plan.
- Close or repurpose parish buildings as necessary, ensuring smooth transitions
Design Parameters for the Pastoral Plan
These design parameters are outlined in the guidebook provided by the Diocese for the All Things New Planning Committees. Each ACC is being asked to follow these guidelines when creating their plan. See the bottom of the page for the full guidebook.
Our Area Catholic Community (ACC)
Each Area Catholic Community (ACC) has been asked by the Diocese to form an All Things New Planning Committee. In our ACC, this role is being fulfilled by our Parish Leadership Team (PLT) along with one parishioner, supported by several subcommittees. The Planning Committee members serve primarily as liaisons between the subcommittees and the Diocese.
Planning Committee/Liaisons
Laura Lange - St. Donatus
Kelly Marthaler - St. Alexius
Deb Himsl - St. Francis de Sales
Adam Saltmarsh - Sts. Peter & Paul
Kathy Knoblach - Our Lady of the Angels
Sally Ross - St. Paul's
Lisa Otte - Holy Family School
Fr. Kevin Soenneker (Pastor)
Fr. Mark Botzet (Parochial Vicar)
Subcommittee Members
St. Donatus
Carol Sanders
Bonita Radermacher
Gerald Schmitz
Rebecca Radermacher
Tom Feldman
Greg Radermacher
Aaron Radermacher
St. Alexius
Levi Dunn
Joe Borgerding
Darrin Herickhoff
Barb Bentfield
Jane Jenc
Teresa Burlet
Mark Jahner
Tiffany Marthaler
Mark Klaphake
St. Francis de Sales
Rick Tschida
Mike Mastey
Paul Gregory
Paul Rooney
Roy Lensing
Andrea Dingmann
Sts. Peter & Paul
Harry Zenzen
Joe Borgerding
Joe Heinze
Kurt Herickhoff
Jackie Weller
Jeanne Illies
Mary Ann Bauer
Bonnie Heinze
Our Lady of the Angels
Merle Felling
Joyce Frericks
Cele Gamradt
Ronald Klaphake
Allison Norgren
Audrey Roering
John Florin
St. Paul's
Tim Bernard
Jennifer Gruber
Jamie Hooper
Denise Jennissen
Charlotte Johnson
Curt Kampsen
Mary Kay Meier
Connie Sell