Press Release

GREEN BAY, Wis. (Dec. 31, 2022) – 

The message below is from Bishop David L. Ricken on the death of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, who passed away December 31 at 9:34 a.m. local time in Vatican City. 

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, 

Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI has been called from this life to eternal life, and today we begin a period of mourning and gratitude. There will be special Masses and prayers offered throughout the next days for the repose of his soul and in gratitude for his long service of God and the Catholic Church as a priest, theologian, bishop, cardinal and the successor to Peter as pope. 

He spoke and wrote with great simplicity and depth, and much of his life's effort was spent in helping people understand how much they are known and loved by God and how much Jesus needs to be the center of our lives. The breadth of his intellectual acumen, as well as his ability to be truly humble while leading and serving as a pastor and teacher of the faith, is something for which we can be most grateful. He led the Church with clarity and courage, often in the face of great criticism. 

May God continue to guide and direct the Church in these most challenging times as we return this gift of a great “servant of the servants of God” to the One who loves him most. 

Sincerely yours in Christ, Bishop David L. Ricken, DD JCL 

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Media Inquiries: Bishop Ricken will be taking interviews tomorrow, Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023, after the 9:00 a.m. Mass at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral in Green Bay. If you plan on being present, please email Justine Lodl at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. 

Who we are: As friends and followers of Jesus, the Catholic Diocese of Green Bay is devoted to fostering households and communities of discipleship through the mission and ministry of the Catholic Church. We are missionary disciples striving to lead all people to the Kingdom of God. Established in 1868, the diocese is composed of 256,000 Catholics in 16 counties: Brown, Calumet, Door, Florence, Forest, Kewaunee, Langlade, Manitowoc, Marinette, Menominee, Oconto, Outagamie, Shawano, Waupaca, Waushara and Winnebago. 

Contact: Justine Lodl, director of communications, at 920-272-8213 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; or Sarah Gietman, communications coordinator, at 920-272-8209 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. 

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Press Release

GREEN BAY, Wis. (July 8, 2022) – Over the past year, the Diocesan Office of Catholic Schools has researched and discerned the issue of human sexuality as it relates to Catholic teaching, and has issued several policies to guide our Catholic Schools and Religious Education programs.
 
“God created man in his image, in the divine image he created him; male and female he created them.” - Genesis 1:27
 
“At the heart of a Catholic educational institution’s unique educational charism is integral formation of the whole human person,” said Todd Blahnik, Families and Schools of Discipleship Formation Mission Team Leader. “It is the policy of the Diocese of Green Bay to interact with students according to their biological sex based upon physical differences at birth. Occasionally there may be instances where young people experience conflict between their biological sex and the roles and norms advocated by society. Some young people might feel drawn to dress, act, and even manipulate their physical bodies in ways contrary to God’s plan. We advocate that young people, working with their parents, bring these issues to their pastor or other trained Christian professionals who might best assist them in clarifying and defining God’s plan.”

The diocese/diocesan schools/religious education program joyfully exercises their responsibility to teach Catholic faith and morals in all fullness and especially as expressed in the Catechism of the Catholic Church. Sincere questioning of the practices of the Catholic faith in order to more deeply understand them are welcome.

“As followers of Jesus, we embrace the truth that we are created by God as male and female and that we are loved by Him,” said Father John Girotti, Vicar General, Diocese of Green Bay.

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Who we are: As friends and followers of Jesus, the Catholic Diocese of Green Bay is devoted to fostering households and communities of discipleship through the mission and ministry of the Catholic Church. We are missionary disciples striving to lead all people to the Kingdom of God. Established in 1868, the diocese is composed of 324,000 Catholics in 16 counties: Brown, Calumet, Door, Florence, Forest, Kewaunee, Langlade, Manitowoc, Marinette, Menominee, Oconto, Outagamie, Shawano, Waupaca, Waushara and Winnebago. 

Contact: Justine Lodl, director of communications, at 920-272-8213 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; or Sarah Gietman, communications coordinator, at 920-272-8209 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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Press Release

GREEN BAY, Wis. (Feb. 1, 2022) – Beginning this weekend, Bishop David L. Ricken will invite the nearly 100,000 Catholic families across the Diocese of Green Bay to consider making a gift to the Bishop’s Appeal, which supports the ministries of the larger Church of Green Bay. The theme for 2022 is Hearts Filled with Hope.
 
To view the 2022 Bishop’s Appeal message from Bishop Ricken, please visit: www.catholicfoundationgb.org/video.
 
“This is certainly a time for hope. In the past two years, we have been through so much and yet we have never let go of our hope in Jesus Christ. Through the ministries of the Diocese, we’re able to bring Jesus to people of all ages,” shared Bishop Ricken. Thousands of lives are changed each year through your support of the Bishop’s Appeal.
 
“A gift to the Bishop’s Appeal provides hope to those in need,” said Tammy Danz, Director of the Bishop’s Appeal.  “Your gift to the Appeal provides resources and training to teachers at Catholic schools and faith formation programs. Those in need of mental health counseling or financial health services are able to receive support from the caring counselors at Catholic Charities. Through these wonderful ministries, we serve others with our Hearts Filled with Hope.”
 
It is through the ministries of the Church that we walk with people on life’s journey and inspire others to discover, follow, worship and share Jesus throughout the Diocese of Green Bay. Please prayerfully consider making a pledge to this year’s Bishop’s Appeal. In the next week, parishioners will receive a letter from Bishop Ricken, inviting them to make a gift, or they can make a gift through the Catholic Foundation online at www.catholicfoundationgb.org/give.
 
Gifts to the Bishop’s Appeal help:

• Social Services through Catholic Charities – Catholic Charities provides social service programs to people who are struggling most in life.  Included are mental health counseling, family strengthening programs, adoption, and pregnancy counseling to assist birth parents, adoptive couples, and people with unplanned pregnancies, financial health counseling and more.  
• Services for Education, Catholic Schools & Families share our Catholic teachings with people of all ages.
• Discipleship & Parish Life focuses on young adult discipleship and formation and adult faith formation, while guiding people closer to Christ through prayer and worship.
• Clergy & Parish Leadership trains and forms deacons and pastoral leaders.
• The Compass newspaper publishes news and information about our Church and the Catholic faith.

Gifts to the Bishop's Appeal are accepted year-round. The funds are used, without exception, to support the ministries and services to thousands in need through the Diocese’s 16-county area.  For more information, visit www.catholicfoundationgb.org/bishops-appeal.
 
For nearly 25 years, the Catholic Foundation has been impacting lives within the 16 counties of northeastern Wisconsin which make up the Diocese of Green Bay.  During this time, the Foundation has distributed more than $50 million to support Catholic schools, parishes, and other Catholic organizations.  The Catholic Foundation encourages financial stewardship and generosity through faith-based giving.  The Foundation focuses on supporting Catholic parishes, schools, and ministries through endowment funding.  To learn more, please visit www.catholicfoundationgb.org or contact us at 920-272-8197 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. 

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Who we are: As friends and followers of Jesus, the Catholic Diocese of Green Bay is devoted to fostering households and communities of discipleship through the mission and ministry of the Catholic Church. We are missionary disciples striving to lead all people to the Kingdom of God. Established in 1868, the diocese is composed of 324,000 Catholics in 16 counties: Brown, Calumet, Door, Florence, Forest, Kewaunee, Langlade, Manitowoc, Marinette, Menominee, Oconto, Outagamie, Shawano, Waupaca, Waushara and Winnebago. 

Contact: Justine Lodl, director of communications, at 920-272-8213 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; or Sarah Gietman, communications coordinator, at 920-272-8209 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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Press Release

GREEN BAY, Wis. (Sept. 28, 2021) – While Catholic Schools across the country have experienced a decline in enrollment due to the pandemic, the Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Green Bay have experienced one of the largest increases in enrollment. Between 2020 and 2021, overall, there was a 4.8% increase in enrollment. 
 
“We’ve not seen this many students enrolled since the 2014-2015 school year,” states Todd Blahnik, Superintendent of Schools. “What’s unique about the growth, is that it is spread throughout our entire 16 county area. From the northern schools to Oshkosh, we have seen families continue to choose to send their children to our Catholic schools.” 
 
Blahnik attributes the growth to several things.  “First, we were able to offer in-person education the entire last year (2020-21), while many of our public-school counterparts remained virtual.  Second, our staffs went above and beyond in supporting the students and families during this time. Finally, we added two new high schools offering instruction in the classical school tradition in the Green Bay and Kaukauna area that have been incredibly well received.” Blahnik sees the trend continuing as other schools within the diocese look at expansion.
 
For those interested in exploring Catholic schools as an option, please contact Lori Paul, Advancement Director for Catholic Schools at 920-272-8163 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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Who we are: As friends and followers of Jesus, the Catholic Diocese of Green Bay is devoted to fostering households and communities of discipleship through the mission and ministry of the Catholic Church. We are missionary disciples striving to lead all people to the Kingdom of God. Established in 1868, the diocese is composed of 324,000 Catholics in 16 counties: Brown, Calumet, Door, Florence, Forest, Kewaunee, Langlade, Manitowoc, Marinette, Menominee, Oconto, Outagamie, Shawano, Waupaca, Waushara and Winnebago.

Contact: Justine Lodl, director of communications, at 920-272-8213 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; or Lori Paul, Advancement Director Office of Catholic Schools, at 920-272-8163 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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Press Release

MADISON, Wis. (September 17, 2021) – 

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

As the Catholic bishops of Wisconsin, we welcome the thousands of Afghan refugees who have arrived at Fort McCoy. After a harrowing departure from their homeland, they need the most basic necessities. To this end, we are directing our Catholic Charities agencies and parishes to do the utmost to assist them. Of the five Catholic Charities agencies that serve our state, the Catholic Charities of the Diocese of La Crosse, where Fort McCoy is located, is serving those who reside on base. Therefore, we are making an initial donation of $30,000 to the agency. Catholics are strongly encouraged to make their own donations on the La Crosse Catholic Charities Afghanistan Refugee Assistance website or to local diocesan or parish collections designed to serve the Afghan refugees. At this time, monetary donations are preferable to donations of material goods.

As Catholics, we are called to welcome the stranger. The over 12,500 guests at Fort McCoy will continue to need assistance in the coming months, especially legal assistance, social interaction, and warm clothing for winter. It has been reported that, after careful vetting, close to 400 of these guests will be resettled in Wisconsin. Therefore, the needs of this community will continue for months and years to come.

We urge all Catholics to open their hearts to those who have lost so much. Even more than material goods, these men, women, and children need to find friendship and security. They need to be shown that there is great hope for their futures and that their presence is welcome in our beautiful state. Having endured enormous trauma, they need time and support to heal. May God bless them and keep them in His care.

Sincerely Yours in Christ,

The Most Reverend Jerome E. Listecki
Archbishop of Milwaukee

The Most Reverend Donald J. Hying
Bishop of Madison

The Most Reverend David L. Ricken
Bishop of Green Bay

The Most Reverend William P. Callahan, OFM Conv.
Bishop of La Crosse

The Most Reverend James P. Powers
Bishop of Superior

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Press Release

MADISON, Wis. (August 20, 2021) – 

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

On December 11, 2020, the Committee on Doctrine and the Committee on Pro-Life Activities of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops published the statement “Moral Considerations Regarding the New COVID-19 Vaccines,” in which it clearly states that it is morally permissible to receive these vaccines.1 On January 13, 2021, we published the “Statement of the Catholic Bishops of Wisconsin on the Morality of COVID-19 Vaccines,” and we reiterated “that the use of current COVID-19 vaccines is morally permissible because of the remoteness of material cooperation.”2 We encourage those eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine to do so because it is the most effective way to combat this virus. We are all morally responsible to protect our lives and the lives of others. This is an imperative of natural law that we treasure in our faith. “To defend and promote life, to show reverence and love for it, is a task which God entrusts to every man, calling him as his living image to share in his own lordship over the world…”3 By protecting ourselves against the variants that cause COVID-19, we fulfill this blessed task.

However, the Church also treasures her teaching on the sanctity of conscience: “In all his activity a man is bound to follow his conscience in order that he may come to God, the end and purpose of life. It follows that he is not to be forced to act in a manner contrary to his conscience. Nor, on the other hand, is he to be restrained from acting in accordance with his conscience, especially in matters religious.”4 In light of these teachings we ask ourselves: should the Church or any other organization force a person to receive the COVID-19 vaccine?

No. Nobody should violate the sanctity of conscience by forcing a person to do something contrary to his or her conscience. There are many health or ethical reasons why a person may refuse COVID-19 vaccination. We understand the urgency of this pandemic and the frustration some may experience because of the number of unvaccinated people; but even when someone’s decision may look to others as erroneous, conscience does not lose its dignity.5

A well-formed conscience stands not solely upon ecclesiastical authority, but also upon the law of God written in an individual’s heart.6 Therefore, a human being must always obey the certain judgment of his or her conscience.7 Additionally, “the Christian faithful, in common with all other men, possess the civil right not to be hindered in leading their lives in accordance with their consciences.”8 Consequently, someone who 1 United States Conference of Catholic Bishops Committees on Doctrine and Pro-Life Activities, Moral Considerations Regarding the New COVID-19 Vaccines (December 11, 2020). 2 Statement of the Catholic Bishops of Wisconsin on the Morality of COVID-19 Vaccines (Jan. 13, 2021). 3 Saint John Paul II, Evangelium Vitae, no. 42. 4 Saint Paul VI, Dignitatis Humanae, no. 3. 5 Saint Paul VI, Gaudium et Spes, no. 16. 6 Saint Paul VI, Gaudium et Spes, no. 16. 7 Catechism of the Catholic Church, no. 1800. 8 Saint Paul VI, Dignitatis Humanae, no. 13. in conscience decides that he or she should not receive the COVID-19 vaccine should be granted an exemption based on his or her beliefs or convictions.

It is the responsibility of the individual to raise moral or ethical objections to vaccination based on the dictates of his or her conscience. Pastors should not feel compelled to issue documentation recognizing this conscientious objection and are recommended not to do so. Moreover, human conscience is dynamic; it is an ever-seeking truth reality. A person may claim an exemption of conscience today and later may change his or her mind.

As of today, the State of Wisconsin protects the person for whom state-required “vaccination is reasonably likely to lead to serious harm” or “for reasons of religion or conscience, refuses to obtain the vaccination.”9 We firmly and constantly request that all local, state, and federal governments maintain the protection of individual conscience.

We also stress that a person’s decision to refuse the COVID-19 vaccine finds its limits as we apply the Principle of the Common Good. In other words, the refusal to receive vaccination is also, for the conscientious person, a decision to use other means to protect his or her life and the lives of others against COVID-19. Every decision has consequences; and in this case, the person claiming a religious or ethical exemption should be ready to properly assume other scientifically recommended means of avoiding infection and contagion: face-coverings, social distancing, hand sanitizing, periodic testing, and quarantine.

Employers should respect their employees’ consciences and make necessary accommodations, but they are also responsible for the protection of the common good. Consequently, employers should maintain safety by requiring other ways of preventing the spread of infection by conscientious objectors.

The Vatican COVID-19 Commission in collaboration with the Pontifical Academy for Life issued the document, “Vaccine for all. 20 Points for a Fairer and Healthier World.” As stated therein, “We consider it important that a responsible decision be taken in this regard, since refusal of the vaccine may also constitute a risk to others.”10 As we strive to emerge from this pandemic, we pray and faithfully encourage everyone to enter their inner room of conscience and make the best decision for themselves, their loved ones, and the larger community.

Sincerely Yours in Christ,

The Most Reverend Jerome E. Listecki
Archbishop of Milwaukee

The Most Reverend Donald J. Hying
Bishop of Madison

The Most Reverend David L. Ricken
Bishop of Green Bay

The Most Reverend William P. Callahan, OFM Conv.
Bishop of La Crosse

The Most Reverend James P. Powers
Bishop of Superior

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1 United States Conference of Catholic Bishops Committees on Doctrine and Pro-Life Activities, Moral Considerations Regarding the New COVID-19 Vaccines (December 11, 2020).
2 Statement of the Catholic Bishops of Wisconsin on the Morality of COVID-19 Vaccines (Jan. 13, 2021).
3 Saint John Paul II, Evangelium Vitae, no. 42.
4 Saint Paul VI, Dignitatis Humanae, no. 3.
5 Saint Paul VI, Gaudium et Spes, no. 16.
6 Saint Paul VI, Gaudium et Spes, no. 16.
7 Catechism of the Catholic Church, no. 1800.
8 Saint Paul VI, Dignitatis Humanae, no. 13. 
9 Wisconsin Statutes ss. 252.04(3) and 252.041.
10 Vatican COVID-19 Commission and the Pontifical Academy for Life, “Vaccine for all. 20 Points for a Fairer and Healthier World.” (December 29, 2020).

Press Release

GREEN BAY, Wis. (July 27, 2021) – Todd Blahnik, Superintendent of Catholic Schools for the Diocese of Green Bay reiterated today that guidelines are in place for the start of the 2021-2022 school year. Like last year, all Catholic Schools will be open and providing in-person education for students. At this time, however, the wearing of masks will be at the discretion of the school or parent.
 
“With 54 schools from Antigo to Oshkosh, it is impossible for us to create one set of standards that all schools must follow,” said Blahnik. “We know data can change from county to county, and we are relying on the good judgement of our administrators and parents when it comes to providing a safe environment for staff and students.”
 
The Office of Catholic Schools is asking that all schools adhere to the minimum requirements provided by the CDC. These include keeping a child home when they are sick, promoting hand washing and covering a cough or sneeze, daily cleaning and disinfection of common surfaces, and providing information on where to obtain a COVID vaccination to any staff or parent that requests it. Schools will also be required to follow all local, county, state and federal ordinances should any be issued. 
 
The Diocese of Green Bay continues to monitor the spread of COVID in its 16 counties.  For more information on the guidelines or for parents that would like to find the nearest Catholic school, please visit www.gbdiocschools.org.

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Who we are: As friends and followers of Jesus, the Catholic Diocese of Green Bay is devoted to fostering households and communities of discipleship through the mission and ministry of the Catholic Church. We are missionary disciples striving to lead all people to the Kingdom of God. Established in 1868, the diocese is composed of 324,000 Catholics in 16 counties: Brown, Calumet, Door, Florence, Forest, Kewaunee, Langlade, Manitowoc, Marinette, Menominee, Oconto, Outagamie, Shawano, Waupaca, Waushara and Winnebago. 

Contact: Justine Lodl, director of communications, at 920-272-8213 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; or Sarah Gietman, communications coordinator, at 920-272-8209 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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Press Release

GREEN BAY, Wis. (July 22, 2021) – The Diocese of Green Bay is happy to announce the 2021 Catholic Relief Services (CRS) Rice Bowl Grant Award Winners. The diocese is a co-sponsor of the annual CRS Rice Bowl collection held every year during Lent.

“I am grateful to the parishes and schools throughout the 16 counties of our diocese who have supported our Rice Bowl collection to provide relief to our brothers and sisters overseas as well as locally. As many continue to navigate the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the CRS Rice Bowl grants provide direct assistance to support immigrants and refugees in our community who are struggling to meet their basic needs. The Rice Bowl collection and the grants it makes possible are a beautiful example of faith in action,” said Peter Weiss, director of living justice for the Diocese of Green Bay.

New Leaf Garden Blitz Project: One grant recipient, New Leaf Foods, will use funds from Rice Bowl to support their 2022 Garden Blitz, a grassroots gardening initiative that will build, deliver, and install 75 raised garden boxes, most of which are provided free or at a reduced cost. The targeted recipients of the garden boxes are immigrants and refugees, particularly Somali, Hispanic, and Hmong families.

“New Leaf Foods, Inc., is so honored to be a CRS Rice Bowl grant recipient. We are excited to provide garden boxes to immigrant families in the Green Bay and De Pere area. This grant helps us to be more inclusive in our program by giving us the funds to make these gardens available and free to these populations. Many have been disproportionately impacted by COVID-19. Garden beds help people to have access to local, healthy food at a reasonable price while building a community of people that grow their own food,” said Kim Diaz, vice president of New Leaf Foods.

This year’s recipients are:

• Compassionate Connections Center (Clintonville) – Lenguajes & Alfabetizacion (Languages and Literacy)
• Golden House (Green Bay) – Basic Material Needs
• New Leaf Foods (Green Bay) – New Leaf Garden Blitz
• NWTC Educational Foundation (Green Bay) – Career Pathways Scholarship for English Language Learners
• Joseph Catholic Church (Wautoma) - Hispanic Migrant Pastoral Ministry
• World Relief Fox Valley (Appleton) – COVID-19 Bridge for Families Facing Utility Disconnection

CRS Rice Bowl is a program of prayer, fasting, learning, and giving to help address the challenges of hunger and poverty around the world. Twenty-five percent of the money collected through diocesan parishes is reserved for local use. This year, $12,000 was awarded to agencies at the local level to meet the basic material needs of immigrant and refugee people in northeastern Wisconsin.

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Who we are: As friends and followers of Jesus, the Catholic Diocese of Green Bay is devoted to fostering households and communities of discipleship through the mission and ministry of the Catholic Church. We are missionary disciples striving to lead all people to the Kingdom of God. Established in 1868, the diocese is composed of 324,000 Catholics in 16 counties: Brown, Calumet, Door, Florence, Forest, Kewaunee, Langlade, Manitowoc, Marinette, Menominee, Oconto, Outagamie, Shawano, Waupaca, Waushara and Winnebago. 

Contact: Justine Lodl, director of communications, at 920-272-8213 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; or Sarah Gietman, communications coordinator, at 920-272-8209 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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Press Release

GREEN BAY, Wis. (July 15, 2021) – Bishop David L. Ricken of the Diocese of Green Bay announced this week the reinstatement of the Sunday Mass obligation effective the weekend of August 14-15, 2021.

“Since we are experiencing greater health in our communities and our parishes, after much discernment and consultation, I have decided to lift the dispensation from the obligation to attend Sunday Mass effective on August 15th, the Solemnity of the Assumption of Our Lady into heaven,” said Bishop Ricken. “Because we truly love God, and strive to be missionary disciples, we would want to spend time with Him, to worship, praise and adore Him. The Sunday Mass is the most complete way we can do this.”

Even with the reinstatement of the obligation to attend Sunday Mass, it is important to note there are occasions when the obligation does not apply:

• If individual Catholics struggle with serious health concerns or are physically or morally prevented from worshipping at Mass for a serious reason
• If individuals are frail due to illness or age or, in their well-formed conscience believe that going into public places -- including Sunday worship at Mass -- would place their health or the health of their loved ones in serious jeopardy
• If individuals are sick, or have been in contact with someone who has been sick
• If there is severe weather

The faithful who are unable to attend Mass should follow the third Commandment “To Keep Holy the Lord’s Day” by spending time in prayer, reading the Scriptures, and taking part in acts of charity from home.

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Who we are: As friends and followers of Jesus, the Catholic Diocese of Green Bay is devoted to fostering households and communities of discipleship through the mission and ministry of the Catholic Church. We are missionary disciples striving to lead all people to the Kingdom of God. Established in 1868, the diocese is composed of 324,000 Catholics in 16 counties: Brown, Calumet, Door, Florence, Forest, Kewaunee, Langlade, Manitowoc, Marinette, Menominee, Oconto, Outagamie, Shawano, Waupaca, Waushara and Winnebago. 

Contact: Justine Lodl, director of communications, at 920-272-8213 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; or Sarah Gietman, communications coordinator, at 920-272-8209 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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Press Release

GREEN BAY, Wis. (May 26, 2021) – Todd Blahnik, Superintendent of Catholic Schools for the Diocese of Green Bay, announced guidelines for the 2021-2022 school year have been developed and released to all 54 schools. 
 
This past year, all Catholic schools in the Diocese of Green Bay opened and offered both in-person and virtual learning options to meet the needs of their students and families. “We learned a lot this past year,” said Blahnik. “More importantly, there is now scientific research that shows the level of spread by school age students is currently minimal. This has allowed us to use the plans we created last year, and just make adjustments based on the current data.”
 
Blahnik is quick to note that should the situation rapidly deteriorate before school resumes in the fall, there is already a plan in place to continue to provide in-person education. “We know that things can and do change on a daily basis. Our goal is to allow each of our schools to look at their community and make the best determination on how to prevent any significant outbreaks in their area, while keeping our schools open for in-person instruction.”
 
The Diocese of Green Bay continues to monitor the spread of COVID in its 16 counties.  For more information on the guidelines or for parents that would like to find the nearest Catholic school, please visit www.gbdiocschools.org.

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Who we are: As friends and followers of Jesus, the Catholic Diocese of Green Bay is devoted to fostering households and communities of discipleship through the mission and ministry of the Catholic Church. We are missionary disciples striving to lead all people to the Kingdom of God. Established in 1868, the diocese is composed of 324,000 Catholics in 16 counties: Brown, Calumet, Door, Florence, Forest, Kewaunee, Langlade, Manitowoc, Marinette, Menominee, Oconto, Outagamie, Shawano, Waupaca, Waushara and Winnebago. 

Contact: Justine Lodl, director of communications, at 920-272-8213 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; or Sarah Gietman, communications coordinator, at 920-272-8209 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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Press Release

GREEN BAY, Wis. (May 25, 2021) – Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Green Bay will host their annual Gala in the virtual space for 2021. Join Bishop David Ricken, this Thursday, May 27, 2021, from 8-9 p.m. for “Inspired to Act,” a virtual night of hope and inspiration. With your help, Catholic Charities will be present in greater ways to those who seek mental and financial health counseling, adoption and family support services, and immigration and refugee services.
 
After a year of so many challenges, come hear stories of impact and learn how Catholic Charities continues to change lives in northeast Wisconsin. Whether you're "Excited," "Passionate," or "Inspired" by the work of Catholic Charities, there's a ticket level tailored for you. Starting at just $5, the various ticket levels are one way your attendance contributes toward the programs and offerings of Catholic Charities. To learn more and register: https://ccinspired.givesmart.com 
 
The virtual evening will include silent auction items and a live service auction. Both of these auction opportunities are now live and open for bidding from your phone, computer, or other mobile device. Browse the silent auction and choose from great items including dinner with Bishop Ricken (+8 guests), an Ariens snowblower, a Dooney & Bourke purse and Seroogy's Chocolates gift card, and a weekend getaway in Door County, just to name a few. Click here to check out all the amazing items!
 
If you are looking to have a direct impact in a particular area of Catholic Charities ministry, perhaps the service auction is where you will be “Inspired to Act.” This portion of the evening encourages direct donations to the various programs and initiatives. Consider giving to the services that most inspire you — it's through your support that Catholic Charities is able to bring their lifeline of hope to people in greatest need. Click here to learn more about the programs and outreach efforts you can support.
 
You also won’t want to miss the musical surprise Bishop Ricken has planned for the evening. Get your tickets now for an evening of inspiration benefitting the programs offered through Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Green Bay.

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Who we are: As friends and followers of Jesus, the Catholic Diocese of Green Bay is devoted to fostering households and communities of discipleship through the mission and ministry of the Catholic Church. We are missionary disciples striving to lead all people to the Kingdom of God. Established in 1868, the diocese is composed of 324,000 Catholics in 16 counties: Brown, Calumet, Door, Florence, Forest, Kewaunee, Langlade, Manitowoc, Marinette, Menominee, Oconto, Outagamie, Shawano, Waupaca, Waushara and Winnebago. 

Contact: Justine Lodl, director of communications, at 920-272-8213 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; or Sarah Gietman, communications coordinator, at 920-272-8209 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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Gala Event Website
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Press Release

GREEN BAY, Wis. (April 27, 2021) – The Diocese of Green Bay, along with other Catholic dioceses and religious orders in Wisconsin, participated in the Attorney General’s conference call on Monday, April 26. We understand that this is a review of past cases and does not imply that there are any new allegations against active priests or deacons in the Green Bay Diocese.  At this point, we have not received any formal written request from the AG’s office. Once we receive such a request, the diocese will review and respond appropriately at that time. 

We wish to emphasize that the Diocese of Green Bay remains dedicated to the protection of children and vulnerable adults. The diocese has, over the past several decades, implemented a variety of tools to ensure the safety of every person in the diocese, including background checks, rigorous safe environment training and education, mandatory reporting mechanisms and outreach to survivors of abuse. As part of this effort, in the fall of 2018, the diocese engaged an independent investigative firm to conduct an outside review of the files of all diocesan priests and deacons. Their review led to the release of our list of clergy with substantiated allegations of sexual abuse of a minor in January 2019. We will continue to walk with victims/survivors in their process of healing.

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Who we are: As friends and followers of Jesus, the Catholic Diocese of Green Bay is devoted to fostering households and communities of discipleship through the mission and ministry of the Catholic Church. We are missionary disciples striving to lead all people to the Kingdom of God. Established in 1868, the diocese is composed of 324,000 Catholics in 16 counties: Brown, Calumet, Door, Florence, Forest, Kewaunee, Langlade, Manitowoc, Marinette, Menominee, Oconto, Outagamie, Shawano, Waupaca, Waushara and Winnebago. 

Contact: Justine Lodl, director of communications, at 920-272-8213 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; or Sarah Gietman, communications coordinator, at 920-272-8209 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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Press Release

GREEN BAY, Wis. (Apr. 7, 2021) – The Holy Father, Pope Francis, today announced the appointment of the Very Reverend Daniel Felton as the tenth Bishop of the Diocese of Duluth, Minnesota. Bishop Elect Felton will be ordained a bishop and installed in the Diocese of Duluth during a Mass on Thursday, May 20, 2021. Presently, Father Felton is the Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia for the Diocese of Green Bay, a position he has held since July, 2014.
 
Bishop David L. Ricken said of the appointment of Father Felton, “I could not be more delighted that The Holy Father has chosen to elevate Father Dan Felton to the Episcopacy as the tenth Bishop of the Diocese of Duluth. Bishop-elect Felton, a native of the Diocese of Green Bay, has excelled in his service to this Diocese in the many positions he has held and has been a trusted advisor in his role as Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia. His presence, ministry and expertise will be sorely missed here, but he will bring many gifts to the faithful of the Diocese of Duluth.”
 
Bishop-elect Felton was born in Portsmouth, Virginia on February 5, 1955. He is the son of Carol and the late Ken Felton and the oldest of five children. The bishop-elect holds a B.A. degree from St. Norbert in Religious Studies and Psychology; a M.A. in Theology from St. John University, Collegeville, MN; a S.T.L. in Dogmatic Theology and a Diploma. in Social Communications from the Gregorian University in Rome, Italy.
 
Bishop-elect Felton was ordained a priest on June 13, 1981 by Bishop Wycislo. His parish assignments have included Holy Innocents in Manitowoc, St. Raphael the Archangel in Oshkosh, St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Manitowoc, St. Edward in Mackville, St. Nicholas in Freedom and St. Mary in Greenville. Fr. Felton was also the Director of Affiliate Affairs for the Catholic Telecommunications Network of America
 
Father Felton is a member of the Diocesan College of Consultors, Presbyteral Council, Leadership Roundtable, Priest Personnel Board, Diocesan Finance Council, and St. Norbert College Board of Trustees. He also served as a member of the National Advisory Council of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.

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Who we are: As friends and followers of Jesus, the Catholic Diocese of Green Bay is devoted to fostering households and communities of discipleship through the mission and ministry of the Catholic Church. We are missionary disciples striving to lead all people to the Kingdom of God. Established in 1868, the diocese is composed of 324,000 Catholics in 16 counties: Brown, Calumet, Door, Florence, Forest, Kewaunee, Langlade, Manitowoc, Marinette, Menominee, Oconto, Outagamie, Shawano, Waupaca, Waushara and Winnebago. 

Contact: Justine Lodl, director of communications, at 920-272-8213 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; or Sarah Gietman, communications coordinator, at 920-272-8209 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

  pdf Download Press Release (28 KB)

Press Release

GREEN BAY, Wis. (Mar. 30, 2021) – Superintendent of Catholic Schools for the Diocese of Green Bay, Todd Blahnik, today announced that eight schools from the diocese received $10,000 awards from the George and Mary Kremer Foundation to help underwrite the tuition costs of children from financially challenged families in their schools. The awards were given to:

• All Saints Catholic School in Antigo
• Lourdes Academy Middle School in Oshkosh
• Roncalli Catholic School in Manitowoc
• Sacred Heart Catholic School in Shawano
• St France Xavier Elementary and Middle School in Appleton
• St. Mary Catholic Middle School in Neenah
• St. Thomas More Catholic School in Green Bay. 

The Kremer Foundation is dedicated to Catholic education and assists qualified students in financial need to be able to share in the blessing of a Catholic education.  Student award selection is based on financial need without regard to gender, race, nationality, citizenship or religion.  Families who are interested in applying for tuition assistance should reach out directly to their school.

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Who we are: As friends and followers of Jesus, the Catholic Diocese of Green Bay is devoted to fostering households and communities of discipleship through the mission and ministry of the Catholic Church. We are missionary disciples striving to lead all people to the Kingdom of God. Established in 1868, the diocese is composed of 324,000 Catholics in 16 counties: Brown, Calumet, Door, Florence, Forest, Kewaunee, Langlade, Manitowoc, Marinette, Menominee, Oconto, Outagamie, Shawano, Waupaca, Waushara and Winnebago. 

Contact: Justine Lodl, director of communications, at 920-272-8213 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; or Sarah Gietman, communications coordinator, at 920-272-8209 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

  pdf Download Press Release (24 KB)

Press Release

GREEN BAY, Wis. (Mar. 26, 2021) – All parishes in the Diocese of Green Bay are open for worship during this Holy Week. For a complete listing of parishes and their Holy Week services, visit the following link: https://www.gbdioc.org/communications-and-the-compass/finder-page. We are also pleased to share the following list of broadcast and virtual opportunities with Bishop Ricken from St. Francis Xavier Cathedral. 
 
March 28 - Palm Sunday                  WFRV Local 5          10:30-11:30 am
 
April 1 - Holy Thursday                   Livestream                 7:00 pm 
                                                          Diocesan website        www.gbdioc.org
                                                          (Access livestream page from homepage slider) 
                                                          Cathedral website       www.sfxcathedralgb.com
                                                          (Access livestream button on the homepage)
 
April 2 - Good Friday                       Livestream                 3:00 pm  
                                                          Diocesan website        www.gbdioc.org
                                                          (Access livestream page from homepage slider) 
                                                          Cathedral website       www.sfxcathedralgb.com
                                                          (Access livestream button on the homepage)
 
April 3 - Easter Vigil                         Livestream                 8:00 pm         
                                                           Livestreamed on Cathedral’s website ONLY
                                                           www.sfxcathedralgb.com
                                                           (Access livestream button on homepage)
 
April 4 - Easter Sunday                    WFRV Local 5         10:30-11:30 am
 
TV viewers are advised to check with local cable or satellite TV providers for the channel that carries the WFRV signal. The broadcast Masses on WFRV are also streamed at www.wearegreenbay.com.
 
Drawing strength and hope from our faith in Jesus Christ, we wish you a blessed Holy Week and a Happy Easter.

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Who we are: As friends and followers of Jesus, the Catholic Diocese of Green Bay is devoted to fostering households and communities of discipleship through the mission and ministry of the Catholic Church. We are missionary disciples striving to lead all people to the Kingdom of God. Established in 1868, the diocese is composed of 324,000 Catholics in 16 counties: Brown, Calumet, Door, Florence, Forest, Kewaunee, Langlade, Manitowoc, Marinette, Menominee, Oconto, Outagamie, Shawano, Waupaca, Waushara and Winnebago. 

Contact: Justine Lodl, director of communications, at 920-272-8213 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; or Sarah Gietman, communications coordinator, at 920-272-8209 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

  pdf Download Press Release (24 KB)