Each June, the Church invites us to pause and reflect on the extraordinary gift of the priesthood, diaconate and religious life. It is a month marked by ordinations, new assignments and the joyful celebration of jubilarians who have given decades of faithful service to Christ and his people. This year, our reflections take on an even deeper resonance as our nation marks its 250th anniversary and we join Catholics across the country in the consecration of the United States to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
These moments converge to remind us of who we are and what we are called to be.
One of the greatest joys of my ministry as bishop is ordaining new priests and deacons. Each vocation is a sign that the Holy Spirit continues to stir hearts, call disciples and raise up shepherds for the Church in central Minnesota. These men have listened to the Lord’s voice and responded with courage and generosity. Their “yes” strengthens the entire Body of Christ.
I will be ordaining five men as deacons: three as permanent deacons and two as transitional deacons. As they begin their ministry, I ask you to pray for them — that they may serve with humility, compassion and a deep love for the people entrusted to their care.
June also brings the annual cycle of priest assignments. Change is never easy, but it is a reminder that the priesthood is a life of mission. Our priests go where they are needed, offering their gifts for the good of the whole diocese. I am grateful for their willingness to embrace new challenges and for the parish communities who welcome them with open hearts. These are moments of grace and opportunities for renewal, fresh energy and new relationships rooted in the Gospel.
We also honor the priests and religious celebrating significant anniversaries this year. Their lives are living homilies — testimonies of fidelity, perseverance and love. Some have served in our diocese for decades; others have carried out ministries across the world. All of them have shaped the faith of countless people. To our jubilarians: thank you. Your witness strengthens us and your prayers sustain us.
As our country marks its 250th anniversary, I will join my brother bishops in the consecration of the United States to the Sacred Heart of Jesus on June 11. This act is not merely symbolic. It is a reminder that our hope does not solely rest in political structures or human achievements, but in the love of Christ, who desires to draw all people to himself.
The Sacred Heart is a heart of mercy, compassion and self‑giving love. At a time when our nation faces deep divisions and uncertainties, we entrust ourselves again to the One who alone can heal, reconcile and renew.
As we celebrate these milestones, may we allow the Sacred Heart of Jesus to shape our own hearts. Be assured of my prayers for you, and please continue to pray for our priests, our religious, our newly ordained and for our beloved diocese.
May the Heart of Christ guide us always.
Bishop Patrick M. Neary, C.S.C.
Dear Bishop Patrick and CM Catholic,
Thanks for another encouraging article! My own mom impressed upon me the importance of Jesus’ Sacred Heart. In doing so, we remind ourselves as you invitingly pointed out, Bishop Patrick, our deepest hope in this country, and actually worldwide, is in our Lord’s compassionate Sacred Heart. Yes, we each are to do our part within social ministries, but always trusting in our Lord. May the Sacred Heart bless these efforts!🙏🏽