Connecting the Diocese

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 […]

Discover how growing up as one of ten children on a dairy farm shaped Chris Hollar’s journey to becoming a dedicated parish secretary at St. Wenceslaus and St. Michael’s. Through daily farm chores and family traditions, Chris learned invaluable lessons about service, hospitality, and unwavering faith that now define her role in the church community. […]

Discover the heartwarming story of Kevin Decker hosting 30 parishioners for Easter dinner, exemplifying the true spirit of Catholic community. This episode of Connecting the Diocese brings together Monsignor Richard Gillis and Kevin Decker for an intimate conversation about their experiences at the Cathedral and the profound impact of faith on their lives. The discussion […]

Discover how a humble Polish nun’s visions transformed the Catholic Church’s understanding of God’s mercy. This profound episode unpacks the powerful legacy of Sister Maria Faustina Kowalska and the establishment of Divine Mercy Sunday by Pope John Paul II. Ann Lankford, Director of the Office for Catechesis and Evangelization, shares deep insights into Divine Mercy […]

Step into the transformative world of the Easter Vigil Mass, where darkness gives way to radiant light, symbolizing Christ’s triumphant resurrection. In this enlightening episode, Monsignor Steve Kachel shares touching personal memories of Easter celebrations and unpacks the profound symbolism woven throughout the Easter liturgy. Journey through the powerful imagery of the Easter candle procession, […]

Discover how a timeless poem about God’s relentless pursuit of the human soul intersects with one seminarian’s remarkable path to priesthood. Kyle Lang, currently studying in Rome, shares his transformative journey from a Catholic family in West Salem to the heart of the universal Church. Through the lens of Francis Thompson’s “The Hound of Heaven,” […]

Discover the fascinating world of chrism oil, a sacred mixture of olive oil and fragrant essence that plays a pivotal role in Catholic liturgical traditions. From the dramatic moment when a bishop breathes into the oil during consecration to its use in transforming ordinary objects and people into sacred vessels of Christ’s presence, this episode […]

From being the first African American member of the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration to becoming a powerful voice for racial justice in the Catholic Church, Sister Thea Bowman’s story is one of extraordinary courage and transformation. Despite facing initial skepticism and racism, her vibrant spirit and unwavering faith helped forge a new path for […]

Journey into an extraordinary moment as Bishop Gerard Battersby shares his unexpected encounter with Jesus Christ during prayer. In a powerful testimony, he recounts being spiritually transported to a grotto where Christ embraced him and whispered, “I’ve been waiting for you.” This transformative experience deepened the Bishop’s understanding of Christ’s presence in the Eucharist and […]

We’re looking back at the life and legacy of Father Joseph Walijewski. He founded Casa Hogar Juan Pablo II, an orphanage in Peru. By asking his intercession you can help him become a saint! Learn more: https://frjoesguild.org/ Airdate: 03/15/2025