"Father of Mercy and Love"

2011-07-05T09:21:00.005-04:00

News about Bishop Cistone and the Diocese of Saginaw is now published directly on our website www.saginaw.org.

Also, Find Bishop Cistone on Facebook.

Bishop Cistone Makes Pastoral Visit to Ethiopia, Kenya

2011-06-27T09:49:00.001-04:00

Bishop Cistone has asked that the faithful of the Diocese of Saginaw pray with him as he travels to the countries on behalf of Catholic Relief Services

SAGINAW — The Most Rev. Joseph R. Cistone, Bishop of Saginaw, left today for Ethiopia and Kenya. As a member of the Catholic Relief Services (CRS) Board of Directors, he has been invited to visit several countries where CRS maintains emergency and long-term relief, food and clothing distribution centers and medical facilities.

“With the financial help of the faithful of the United States, CRS has been providing services to the people of Ethiopia for decades and continues to the present day,” Bishop Cistone said.

CRS was founded in 1943 by the Catholic Bishops of the United States and since that time has expanded to reach more than 100 million people in more than 100 countries on five continents. The mission of CRS is to assist impoverished and disadvantaged people overseas, working in the spirit of Catholic Social Teaching to promote the sacredness of human life and the dignity of the human person. Although the mission is rooted in the Catholic faith, CRS operations serve people based solely on need, regardless of their race, religion or ethnicity.

While overseas, Bishop Cistone will visit various mission sites and access the work of CRS in Ethiopia and Kenya.

“I would love to be in a position to tell the people of Ethiopia and Kenya that I bring with me the love, prayers and solidarity of the faithful of the Diocese of Saginaw, “ Bishop Cistone said. “So, I ask you to keep the people of Africa in your prayers during the next few weeks. Pray for my safe journey; and, on my return, I will share with you how you and countless other concerned people have made a difference in the lives of millions of men, women and children in Ethiopia and Kenya.”

A “Prayer for the People of Africa” will be posted to the diocesan website, Saginaw.org. Bishop Cistone will share videos, photos and reflections from his pastoral visit following his return in July.

The Catholic Diocese of Saginaw supports the work of CRS through the Operation Rice Bowl program that takes place each year during Lent. In the last decade, local parishioners have donated more than $1 million. While 75 percent of that money is sent to CRS to feed, clothe and care for the poor in countries overseas, 25 percent stays in the local community to assist the poor with food, shelter and other emergency needs. In addition, the Catholic Diocese of Saginaw has taken special collections to support CRS with its relief efforts in countries that have been devastated by natural disasters, such as recent events in Haiti and Japan.

Catholic Relief Services is the official international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States.

Pastoral visit to Ethiopia with CRS

2011-06-08T12:49:00.002-04:00

My Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

A year ago, I was elected to a three year term to serve on the Board of Directors for Catholic Relief Services (CRS). The Board consists of 13 bishops as well as 7 lay and religious men and women. Each year, members of the Board are asked to visit locations around the world where CRS maintains emergency and long-term relief, food and clothing distribution centers, and medical facilities. This year, I have been asked to join another Board member in visiting the country of Ethiopia in east Africa.

CRS serves the needs of people oversees, in all corners of the world. From time to time, you are asked to support emergency relief efforts in these areas. The most recent circumstances were in Haiti and Japan. However, one of CRS’ longest commitments has been to Ethiopia. Although the people of Ethiopia have suffered the consequences of droughts and starvation for decades, their severe plight received international attention only since the mid 1980’s. However, with the financial help of the faithful of the United States, CRS has been providing services to the people of Ethiopia long before the mid 1980’s and continues to the present day.

My task will be to visit various mission sites in Ethiopia, as well as in nearby Nairobi and Kenya, to assess the work of CRS. I will depart on June 27th and return July 6th. When I return, I hope to provide pictures and stories on our diocesan website. Art Lewis of WSGW has also invited me to share my experience on his radio show.

I would love to be in a position to tell the people of Ethiopia that I bring with me the love, prayers and solidarity of the faithful of the Diocese of Saginaw. So, I ask you to keep the people of Ethiopia in your prayers during the next few weeks. Pray for my safe journey; and, on my return, I will share with you how you and countless other concerned people have made a difference in the lives of millions of men, women and children in Ethiopia.

With prayerful best wishes, I remain

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Most Reverend Joseph R. Cistone, D.D.

Bishop of Saginaw

Pray with us as we prepare for ordination tomorrow

2011-05-19T14:55:00.003-04:00

The four include Deacons (from left to right) J. Marcel Portelli, Robert P. Schikora,
Nathan E. Harburg, and Edwin C. Dwyer.

I will be making a Holy Hour from 5-6 p.m. tonight with the four deacons who will receive the Sacrament of Holy Orders tomorrow. Join with us in prayer, wherever you may be, as we prepare for ordination.

Ordination of transitional deacons

2011-05-16T09:43:00.005-04:00

I had the great privilege of ordaining the Rev. Mr. Alberto Vargas (left) and Rev. Mr. Thomas Held (right) as transitional deacons Friday, May 13, at the Cathedral.

Click here to view more photos from ordination.

My homily for the Ordination Mass is below:

Bishop Cistone announces $5.7 million investment to support Catholic high schools in Bay City, Saginaw

2011-05-06T14:10:00.000-04:00

‘Legacy of Faith’ campaign will provide students with superior environment for learning and formation as they grow into disciples of Christ, future leaders

SAGINAW — During an afternoon press conference at the Diocesan Center, the Most Rev. Joseph R. Cistone, Bishop of Saginaw, announced the public phase of a major gifts campaign that will benefit two Catholic high schools located within the Diocese of Saginaw.

In a room full of campaign supporters and diocesan and school staff, Bishop Cistone stated that a combined $4.1 million had been secured for infrastructure enhancements at All Saints Central High School, 217 S. Monroe St., in Bay City, and Nouvel Catholic Central High School, 2555 Wieneke Rd., in Saginaw. An additional $1.6 million has been pledged for tuition assistance and school operations.

“Catholic schools remain our strongest means of forming, developing, and educating our Catholic youth,” Bishop Cistone said. “The strength of our Catholic Church is dependent upon our ability to provide quality and affordable Catholic education in a Catholic school setting. I am committed to making certain that there will be a strong Catholic school program in our diocese for generations to come.”

The infrastructure upgrades at Nouvel will take academic excellence to a new level with the introduction of state-of-the-art learning spaces and laboratories, the renovation of existing classrooms and the removal of the school’s temporary annex building. The phase one investment is $3 million.

All Saints will continue its renowned provision of innovative education, with building enhancements, including a new heating and ventilation system. The physical improvements are phase-one of a multi-phase renovation and expansion project that will provide students with a superior environment for learning and faith formation. The phase one investment is $1.1 million.

Both projects are designed with environmentally friendly building practices and materials, and are expected to be complete when students return to school in the fall.

The Legacy of Faith campaign started in June of 2008 with a feasibility study to identify priority needs. Campaign co-chairs helped to secure generous funds for phase one of the project; teachers and school staff were among the first to support the initiative.

As the campaign moves into its public phase, pledges can be made through the Catholic Community Foundation of Mid-Michigan. A link to that website will be available at Saginaw.org.

The Office of Catholic Schools will continue to partner with parishes and schools to analyze and identify the infrastructure and educational needs of Catholic schools throughout the diocese.

There are 3,400 students enrolled in 22 Catholic schools located across the 11-county Diocese of Saginaw.

Letter to members of the St. Valentine parish community

2011-05-03T13:45:00.003-04:00

(The following letter was shared with members of the St. Valentine parish community during Masses this past weekend.)

My Dear Parishioners,

As you may know, this week I announced that I had approved a recommendation submitted by leaders of St. Valentine Parish, in particular leaders of the parish school, that St. Valentine Catholic School close at the conclusion of the current school year, June 2011. I realize there is no way in which I can sufficiently ease the sadness you must feel at this time. Yet, I felt compelled to express to you my affection, my prayerful support, and my solidarity with you.

Many f actors are converging at this time in our diocesan history which currently affect our Catholic schools throughout the Diocese. Among the many factors are declining enrollment, unemployment, shrinking financial resources and escalating costs. I greatly admire the extraordinary efforts which parishes and parishioners have made and continue to make in order to maintain their local schools. I commend these efforts and good intentions. Nonetheless, the reality remains. I firmly believe that if we do not address these issues now and make the difficult, painful choices to consolidate resources, we face the very loss of Catholic education itself.

I am most respectful of the 61-year legacy of St. Valentine School and grateful for the outstanding support of the school by this parish family. Your school has been a source of faith and knowledge that continues to shine in the lives of all the students who were formed and educated in this program. It is my understanding that St. Valentine Parish will collaborate with neighboring parishes so that children from here may be welcomed and cared for in the nearby Catholic schools. I hope that the parents and students currently enrolled in St. Valentine School will make every effort to continue their Catholic school education with these opportunities.

May our Lord continue to bless you and all your loved ones and may Mary our Mother watch over you always.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Most Reverend Joseph R. Cistone, D.D.
Bishop of Saginaw

Easter Reflection

2011-04-25T08:57:00.001-04:00

Video: Chrism Mass Homily & Holy Chrism Blessing

2011-04-20T16:05:00.003-04:00

Photos from the Chrism Mass

2011-04-20T08:58:00.003-04:00

See More Photos

Today's interview with local media

2011-04-19T16:18:00.002-04:00

I met with local media today after the Chrism Mass at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption to discuss their interest in my recent video message that was included with last week's announcement of Pastoral Assignments.

Lenten Reflection, Holy Week

2011-04-18T09:19:00.001-04:00

Lenten Reflection, Week Five

2011-04-11T09:17:00.001-04:00

Catholic Men's Fellowship Supports Seminarian Education

2011-04-07T17:19:00.002-04:00

A BIG "Thank you" to the Catholic Men's Fellowship. Earlier this week, Dan Fitzpatrick presented me with a $4,000 check to support seminarian education on behalf of the group. The money was collected during the their diocesan men’s conference last month in Bay City.

Lenten Reflection, Week Four

2011-04-04T09:19:00.001-04:00

Lenten Reflection, Week Three

2011-03-28T09:51:00.002-04:00

Lenten Reflection, Week Two

2011-03-21T12:22:00.001-04:00

Earthquake and Tsunami in Japan – Voluntary Collection

2011-03-14T16:17:00.003-04:00

Today I sent to following memo to Pastors, Parohchial Administrators and Pastoral Administrators regarding Catholic Relief Services and its efforts to assist the people of Japan following last week's earthquake and tsunami there:

By this time, my own words are unnecessary and inadequate to describe the horror and devastation which has fallen upon Japan. As of this morning, the death total had risen to almost 3,000 and mounting quickly.

Catholic Relief Services (CRS) personnel throughout the Pacific have been communicating with organizations of the Catholic Church in these areas and stand ready to assist. Caritas Japan, the humanitarian organization of the Japanese Catholic Conference, is assessing the needs. CRS has programs in the Philippines and Indonesia, and also works with Caritas Oceania which is active in many Pacific islands that might be affected. Central American countries where CRS works could also be in danger. In the next few days, once additional information becomes available, CRS will develop a response taking into account all affected countries. To learn more about relief efforts in Japan, you can refer to http://crs.org/japan/

The people of Japan and other affected areas need our help. I would encourage your parish to consider taking up a voluntary collection for CRS in order to support these emergency efforts. Please know that the funds will be used for immediate humanitarian needs of the most vulnerable and for support to the local Catholic Church in its on-going mission.

Please join me in continued prayers for those who have died in this tragic occurrence as well as for those who endeavor to rebuild their lives.

Lenten reflection, Week One

2011-03-14T11:36:00.002-04:00

I will continue to offer a weekly reflection each Monday through April 25.

Lent 2011: Ash Wednesday

2011-03-09T14:38:00.002-05:00

Below is my homily for today, Ash Wednesday, from the noon Mass at the Cathedral. Be sure to watch for my weekly Lenten video reflections, which begin on Monday.

First Reading: Joel 2:12-18
Second Reading: 2 Corinthians 5:20-6:2
Gospel: Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18

Weekley Lenten reflections ...

2011-03-02T09:02:00.002-05:00

I try to be physically present to the people of the diocese as much as possible. When I am unable to be with them in person, I believe I have a great opportunity — through the use of technology— to continue to offer myself as their spiritual shepherd.

That is why I will offer weekly Lenten messages that focus on prayer and Christian living, with special attention to the abundant graces of God.

The first reflection, in preparation of Ash Wednesday, is already available (see video below). I will continue to offer a weekly reflection each Monday, beginning March 14 through April 25.

Diocesan 75th Anniversary Steering Committee meets for first time

2011-02-28T10:04:00.002-05:00

On numerous occasions, I have spoken with priests, administrators, diocesan staff, and many other parish and diocesan groups regarding our 75th anniversary year. When doing so, I indicated that the first order of business was to appoint a Steering Committee. I would like you to know that I have appointed a Diocesan Steering Committee to begin planning for this event. The Committee has representation from the various parts of the Diocese, involving priests, religious and laity, parishes and schools, young and old, the Hispanic community and many more. We tried to ensure that the Committee reflected the diversity of the Diocese, while keeping it a workable size.

We were very blessed to commence our first committee meeting, Saturday, February 26th, on the diocesan anniversary date. While it may seem we have a great deal of time for planning, it is deceiving as we really have only slightly more than a year to prepare for a year-long celebration.

The Diocesan Steering Committee includes the following members: Dr. Michael Wolohan (Chair), Mr. James Damitio, Mr. Anthony Flores, Sr. Julie Gatza, Rev. Robert Howe, Rev. Richard Jozwiak, Ms. Bridget Looby, Mrs. Bonnie Mault, Mr. Oscar Mendoza, Mr. Paul Metevia, Mr. William Myler, Mrs. Pam Myler, Mrs. Lisa Seely, Mr. Wally Tenbusch, Mr. James VanTiflin.

I believe our 75th anniversary will afford us a wonderful opportunity to generate enthusiasm and a renewed relationship with the Church among our people. This is, indeed, a time of welcome, outreach and inclusion of and by all. To this end, let us join together in prayer.

Letter to members of the St. Stanislaus Kostka parish community

2011-02-26T13:29:00.002-05:00

The following letter was shared with members of the St. Stanislaus Kostka parish community during Masses last weekend.

My Dear Parishioners,

As you well know, this week I announced that I had approved a recommendation submitted by the pastors and pastoral administrators of Vicariate IV and the Bay Area Catholic Schools Advisory Committee that St. Stanislaus Elementary School close at the conclusion of the current school year, June, 2011.

I realize there is no way in which I can sufficiently ease the sadness you must feel at this time nor do I expect that everyone will agree with this decision. Yet, I felt compelled to express to you my affection, my prayerful support, and my solidarity with you.

No single person or committee is responsible for this decision. Many factors are converging at this time in our diocesan history which currently affect our Catholic schools throughout the Diocese. Among the main factors are declining enrollment, unemployment, shrinking financial resources and escalating costs. I greatly admire the extraordinary efforts which parishes and parishioners have made and continue to make in order to maintain their own local schools. I commend these efforts and good intentions. Nonetheless, the reality remains. I firmly believe that if we do not address these issues now and make the difficult, painful choices to consolidate our resources, we face the very loss of Catholic education itself.

I have come to appreciate the rich history of St. Stanislaus School. For over 100 years, your school has been a source of faith and knowledge for countless young men and women. Although, in recent years, St. Stanislaus School no longer operated as an independent parish school but in collaboration with all the parishes in the Bay area, the financial condition of all the parishes, including St. Stanislaus Parish, remains a serious concern.

Despite this decision, I remain optimistic that, by consolidating our resources, we will be in a better position to not simply provide but further strengthen Catholic education here in the Bay area now and in the future. I hope that the parents and students currently enrolled in St. Stanislaus School will make every effort to continue their Catholic school education within the Bay area.

May our Lord continue to bless you and all your loved ones and may Mary our Mother watch over you always.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Most Reverend Joseph R. Cistone, D.D.
Bishop of Saginaw

March for Life 2011 EXTRA!

2011-02-08T11:20:00.003-05:00

In this video, I try to share a little bit about what it was like to be inside the Verizon Center during the Youth Rally & Mass for Life prior to the annual March for Life last month in Washington, D.C. Our Church, our nation and our world are blessed by our young people.

You can be like Jesus right now

2011-02-04T17:08:00.004-05:00

I had hoped to observe Catholic Schools Week by celebrating Mass with all of our nearly 3,500 Catholic school students across the Diocese, but unfortunately the heavy snowfall forced us to cancel the regional Masses set for Wednesday and Thursday. I do look forward to rescheduling these Masses and celebrating with the rest of our Catholic school students, faculty and staff.

During my homilies this week, I shared the story of St. John Bosco, who at just nine years old was called to lead and care for disadvantaged children with great gentleness and compassion. St. John Bosco, whose feast day we celebrated Monday, January 31, spent his life providing Catholic education, food and housing to hundreds of poor and orphaned boys and girls. I told our students that they, too, are called to share the love of the Lord with those they meet.

It is important to remember that while our Catholic schools provide students a superior education, it is our ability to teach the Faith in the classroom which makes them a gift. I pray that St. John Bosco, in his love for Jesus, will continue to inspire parents, teachers and especially students to live their Faith right now.

Catholic Schools Week letter

2011-02-01T15:13:00.002-05:00

The following letter was sent to all Catholic school families, principals, faculty and staff, pastors and pastoral administrators.

Dear Members of our Catholic School Family,

With great enthusiasm and gratitude, we celebrate Catholic Schools Week, January 30-February 5, 2011. I am so proud of our wonderful students and the many contributions of all those who make Catholic education possible: dedicated principals, teachers, school staffs and volunteers, committed parents, pastors and pastoral administrators who provide excellent leadership, and, in a special way, generous parishioners and benefactors. Thank you for all you do to support Catholic education.

There is no better opportunity to teach the faith than in our Catholic schools, where Christ Himself is revered as the True Teacher. Since becoming the Bishop of the Diocese of Saginaw, I have committed a great deal of time, thought and prayer to our Catholic schools. Our Catholic schools are a treasure. Strengthening them remains a priority for me in my ministry.

Today, our Catholic schools face many challenges. Nonetheless, it is important that we continue to share the good news about all that our schools have to offer. In our classrooms, students learn discipline and how to live their lives in a faith-filled and moral way. As a group they perform among the top in the nation. They provide countless hours of service to such worthwhile causes as feeding the poor, visiting the elderly, and working with the disabled here in our diocese. They raise awareness of important social issues such as abortion and euthanasia. As scholars, athletes, artists and citizens they use their knowledge, gifts and many talents to change the world.

While there is always more work that can be done, we should be encouraged by what I consider signs of hope. This past year, one of our schools broke ground on a multi-million dollar expansion project after doubling the number of students in its school over the past six years. In the fall more than half of our schools reported slight increases in enrollment.
Our Catholic schools have so much to offer our children, our Church and our community. I continue to pledge my personal commitment to do everything within my power to maintain a strong Catholic educational program for our diocese. May Saint John Neumann, in his love for Catholic schools, guide and bless us as we work together to ensure that our schools continue to serve us for generations to come.
With prayerful best wishes, I remain

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Most Revered Joseph R. Cistone, D.D.
Bishop of Saginaw

The Dedication of Saint Brigid of Kildare Parish Center and School

2011-01-31T16:03:00.000-05:00

I began the celebration of Catholic Schools Week , Jan 30-Feb. 5 , at St. Brigid of Kildare Church in Midland. I celebrated Sunday Mass with more than 500 members of their vibrant church and school community. Following Mass, I presided over the dedication of their newly expanded parish center and school. It was a great blessing to have the opportunity to thank the parishioners of St. Brigid and acknowledge the many sacrifices they have made to make the addition possible.

I was also able to tour the new building, which is a wonderful facility for the school children and parishioners alike. However, it is not the building that we celebrated Sunday, but the gift of Faith which God has given to us. In our Catholic schools, the gift of Faith is shared daily and our children are taught to use their knowledge, gifts and talents to walk in the footsteps of Jesus Christ.

I look forward to celebrating Mass with all of our Catholic school children this week, and in a special way to thanking all of those who make their education possible.
I am so proud of our Catholic schools and the tradition of excellence they share in educating disciples of Christ. I believe the school expansion project in Midland is an affirmation that parents continue to desire a Catholic school education for their children.

March for Life 2011: Mass at the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception

2011-01-23T17:09:00.003-05:00

I was honored to preside at Mass this morning with thousands of pilgrims from across the country and our group of 400 from the Diocese of Saginaw at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. What a wonderful house of worship!

See photos from the Mass on the Catholic Diocese of Saginaw's Facebook page.

March for Life 2011: Opening Mass

2011-01-22T23:59:00.000-05:00

Four hundred pilgrims gathered at the Center for Ministry this morning begin their journey to the 2011 March for Life in Washington, D.C. I celebrated Mass with the group before we left in a caravan of eight charter buses en route to the nation’s capital to protest the Supreme Court’s 1973 Roe v. Wade decision.

See more photos on Facebook.

March for Life is next week

2011-01-18T16:42:00.002-05:00

I am looking forward to leading a large diocesan group on a pilgrimage to Washington, D.C. for the March for Life. This will be the fifth consecutive year the Diocese has sent a caravan of busses to the march, and this year's group of teens and adults is the largest to date. If you are not traveling with us, please join us in prayer as we stand up publicly for life. Also, you will find links to news, video and photo updates of our January 22-24 pilgrimage on the diocesan facebook page.

Together, we pray for that day of grace when our legislators and the Supreme Court commit themselves and the country to protect all innocent life from conception to natural death.

Rest in Peace, Fr. Mike…

2011-01-12T14:55:00.005-05:00

On Tuesday, I celebrated the funeral Mass for Father Michael Wolf, who served 13 parish communities during his 34 years of active ministry in the Diocese of Saginaw.

Father Mike was the eldest and longest serving priest in the Diocese of Saginaw, and we continue to give praise and thanks to God the Father for the gift of Father Michael Wolf. We ask the Lord Jesus to continue to inspire our young men and women to love the church with that same spirit of love in which Father Mike did.

Throughout his life, many people had the opportunity to listen to Father Mike share stories of living in Germany, traveling as a child with his parents to America, growing up in Bay City and answering the call to be a priest. As I was reflecting on the life of Father Mike, I thought about that way in which he would recount the treasures of his life, almost to the word. So many times, he did the same thing at the altar of Christ. It was as if he would look back on the life of Jesus, on His suffering, His death and His resurrection, and with precision and clarity, he would see Christ in his life and relay that in the words of the Mass.

On behalf of the people of the Diocese of Saginaw, I extend our condolences, gratitude and prayers to the family and close friends of Father Mike.

May he rest in peace.

2010 Christmas Greeting

2010-12-22T11:00:00.001-05:00

Once again, I have the joy of wishing you and your loved ones a Merry Christmas ... May our Lord Jesus Christ, who came to earth that we might live with Him forever in the kingdom, bless you ...

I talked about Christmas with Art Lewis

2010-12-21T14:14:00.004-05:00

I spent time live on the air on WSGW 790 AM Newsradio yesterday morning with Art Lewis. We talked a lot a bout Christmas. You can listen to the podcast on the station's website.

Rest in Peace, Father Larry ...

2010-12-21T14:11:00.001-05:00

Last Friday, I celebrated the funeral Mass for Father Larry Pashak, Pastor of St. Agnes Parish in Freeland, who served the people of the Diocese of Saginaw as a priest for 47 years.

Father Larry was among the first priests of the Diocese of Saginaw whom I got to know after arriving here as Bishop in 2009. I especially looked forward to his generous hospitality when I would go to St. Agnes Church to celebrate the monthly diocesan youth Mass, Feed the Fire. He also was very devoted to our seminarians and hosted a cookout for them in the summer.

I am grateful to God for giving me the chance to sit down and spend time with Father Larry on the previous Friday - a week ago; the day before he died. He had indicated to me recently that he was considering retirement and we met in my office to discuss his plans. We talked a lot about his priesthood and the many ways he served the Diocese of Saginaw. All along the way, I expressed my deep gratitude for all he has done to serve the Lord and the People of God here in this diocese. I could not have thanked him enough.

On Friday, Father Larry's family said goodbye to a good brother and a good uncle. The people of St. Agnes Parish said goodbye to a good pastor. The priests of the Diocese of Saginaw said goodbye a beloved brother. And we all said goodbye to a dear friend.

May he rest in peace.

Thank You

2010-11-05T14:09:00.005-04:00

A BIG THANK YOU to the young women from Nouvel Catholic Central High School who showed up outside my office today and sang a beautiful "Thank You" song to me and presented me with beautiful hand-made cards signed by students from each of the Saginaw Area Catholic Schools. It was a great surprise! Thank you, for brightening my day :)

Rest in Peace

2010-11-04T15:12:00.004-04:00

Following our Church celebration of All Saints and All Souls days at the beginning of this month, I joined my brother priests and deacons today at the Center for Ministry in Saginaw to celebrate Mass and pray for the souls of the deceased Bishops, Priests, and Deacons who have served in the Diocese of Saginaw since it was established in 1938.

May angels lead you into Paradise; may the martyrs receive you at your coming and lead you to the holy city of Jerusalem. May a choir of angels receive you, and with Lazarus, who once was poor, may you have eternal rest.

A list of our brothers who sleep in Christ can be found as it was posted on the DoS News Blog today.

Come, let's March for Life together!

2010-10-29T14:21:00.001-04:00

Join me and hundreds more from the Catholic Diocese of Saginaw on January 22-25 at the 2011 March for Life in Washington, D.C., marking the 38th anniversary of the Roe v. Wade. Adult accommodations are available. All participants age 18 and over must have completed VIRTUS safe environment training, a Background Check, and signed Standards of Ministerial Behavior for those Working with Children and Young People. For more information, go to www.saginaw.org/marchforlife.

Also, check out my Respect Life Month message on the DoS News Blog.

Stay tuned...

2010-10-15T12:40:00.003-04:00

Due to technical difficulties on the diocesan center’s computer network, the DoS News (Blog) and Bishop’s Blog have not had regular updates in the last few weeks. Please continue to check back as work is being done to address the problem. In the meantime, stay connected by visiting the Facebook pages for the Catholic Diocese of Saginaw and Most Rev. Joseph R. Cistone.

Tune in your radio dials ...

2010-09-20T10:29:00.001-04:00

You will be able to find me on local radio during the next two days:

Catholic Radio: This afternoon (Monday), I will be on air live with Al Kresta between 5:00 and 5:30 p.m. on Ave Maria Radio WMAX 1440 AM.

Saginaw Radio: Tomorrow morning (Tuesday), I will be on air live with Art Lewis from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. on WSGW NewsRadio 790 AM and FM Talk 100.5.

Comissioned Lay Ministry and Evangelization

2010-09-16T16:51:00.008-04:00

I was blessed last Sunday to celebrate in the rich tradition of Commissioned Lay Ministry here in the Diocese of Saginaw. This formation program, began by my predecessor, the Most Rev. Francis F. Reh (the fourth Bishop of Saginaw) in 1978, has proven to be a true gift to the people of this local church.

I was honored to commission eight men and women for the first time. Congratulations and thank you to Joanne Dana, Terrie DeWaele, Pamela Kahler, Linda Oeschger, Loretta Puvalowski, Denise Ryman, Robert Stoma, and Wallace Tenbusch - the Class of 2010. In addition, 50 others re-committed themselves for another three years and 17 men and women were granted permanent status as commissioned lay ministers.

In my homily at Sunday's Mass at the Cathedral, I challenged our commissioned lay ministers to grow into the evangelists our Church so dearly needs today. I truly believe that we need to develop our programs, attention and sight on our brothers and sisters, who, for whatever reason, are no longer worshiping with us. If we are truly missioned and commissioned to preach the Good News, then to whom better can we do it than our brothers and sisters who have lost a sense of the power of the Lord Jesus Christ and the grace of the Sacraments in their lives? Where could we do any better work than that?

Celebrating Mass at a migrant camp

2010-09-03T11:19:00.005-04:00

I recently celebrated Mass with one of our migrant worker communities at their camp near Caro. There were about 50 people in attendance, including migrant families, members of the local Sacred Heart Parish and diocesan staff from the Office of Christian Service. After Mass, I was treated to a delicious homemade Mexican dinner. I look forward to my next opportunity to celebrate our faith with members of this hardworking and dedicated community.

Knights of Columbus help Diocese of Saginaw bring awareness to issue of hunger

2010-08-20T13:14:00.006-04:00

I was at the East Side Soup Kitchen in Saginaw on Thursday to accept a check from the Knights of Columbus on behalf of the Diocese of Saginaw. I want to thank the Knights of Columbus for their generous gift of $4,023. The donation allowed me to make contributions to eight soup kitchens and food pantries across the diocese and bring awareness to the issue of hunger in our local communities.

While I was at the soup kitchen, I was able to work a lunch-shift on the serving line, greeting and serving food to all the adults, teens and children who came for a meal.

It was a very spiritual experience. You look into the eyes of the people who are there — people of all ages and walks of life — and you just know that you are meeting Christ.

Thank you to all who work, volunteer and support efforts to feed the hungry.

See more photos on my Facebook page.
To learn which organizations benefited from Thursday's donation click here.

Cooking with Mom

2010-08-19T15:08:00.000-04:00

My dear parents have been in Saginaw spending some of these summer weeks with me. It has been wonderful to be with them.

While they are not his hometown Philadelphia Phillies, my father enjoyed the evening we spent at Dow Diamond cheering on our own Great Lakes Loons. We had a nice trip Up North to beautiful Mackinac Island - what a treasure! And my parents love going to Frankenmuth. If they could fit Bronner's Christmas Wonderland in their suitcases, they would probably take it home with them.

Today, they came to work with me to the Diocesan Center so my mother could treat the diocesan staff to some Cistone Family recipes. She even put on a small cooking demonstration in the Center for Ministry dining room. I am not sure who enjoyed themselves more - my parents being entertained by the staff or the staff being entertained by my parents. It was a lot of fun.

My mother shared her recipes for Italian Wedding Cookies (which she is making in the photo below), Filled Cookies, Chocolate Cookies, Ricotti Cookies, Cranberry Mold, and Josephine's Potato Salad, Manicotti for Company and the Italian pasta "Cavetelli."

Join me at the 2010 Bishop's Charity Golf Classic

2010-08-18T15:56:00.002-04:00

I had a lot of fun shooting this video invitation to the fifth annual Bishop's Charity Golf Classic. I am sure the event itself will be even more enjoyable!

Click here to download the registration and sponsorship form and participate in this year's Charity Golf Classic.

And, please, don't forget to pray for our seminarians and priests.

Profession of Perpetual Vows with Religious Sisters of Mercy

2010-08-17T11:29:00.006-04:00

On Monday I was invited to celebrate Mass for the Religious Sisters of Mercy of Alma and participate in the ceremonial profession of Perpetual Vows of Sister Mary Christa Nutt.

See more photos from the event on the Catholic Diocese of Saginaw Facebook page and watch an excerpt of my homily below.

My Brother Bishops

2010-08-16T12:50:00.005-04:00

Earlier this month, I was blessed to participate in the episcopal ordination of the Most Rev. Michael J. Fitzgerald and the Most Rev. John J. McIntyre, who were recently appointed by Pope Benedict XVI to serve as Auxiliary Bishops in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia.

This episcopal ordination held a unique blessing for me as it was the first time that I, as a Bishop - in my role as one of the successors of the Apostles, - had the honor to serve as a Co-Consecrator of these new bishops along with Cardinal John Foley, Grand Master of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem, and Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia and Principal Consecrator.

Canon law perscribes that "unless the Apostolic See has granted a dispensation, the principal bishop consecrator in an episcopal consecration is to be joined by at least two consecrating bishops; it is especially appropriate, however, that all the bishops present consecrate the elect together." (Can. 1014)

You can see highlights of the August 6 ordination of Bishop Fitzgerald and Bishop McIntyre in the YouTube video below as posted by the Archdiocese of Philadelphia:

And later this week, on Wednesday, I will be at the Installation of the Most Rev. Joseph P. McFadden as the new Bishop of the Diocese of Harrisburg, Pa.

Bishop McFadden and I are "twin bishops," meaning that we were consecrated bishops at the same Mass, like Bishop Fitzgerald and Bishop McIntyre earlier this month. Bishop McFadden and I were ordained bishops on July 28, 2004 and served together as Auxiliary Bishops in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia until my appointment as Bishop of Saginaw in 2009.

Registration is now open for the 2010 Bishop's Charity Golf Classic

2010-08-10T12:00:00.001-04:00

Join us for the 2010 Bishop's Charity Golf Classic to raise funds for seminarian education. Download the flyer to become a participating sponsor, register to attend the dinner banquet and silent auction, or compete in one of the two golf outing opportunities.

Celebrating the first anniversary of my installation as the sixth Bishop of Saginaw

2010-07-29T08:59:00.005-04:00

See pictures from last year's installation and solemn evening prayer on my Facebook page.

Watch my interview with WNEM TV-5's Katie O'Mara.

10 Questions with The Saginaw News.

Blessing at St. James, Bay City

2010-07-27T15:35:00.000-04:00

On Sunday morning, I celebrated the Eucharist with the people of St. James Parish in Bay City and blessed a new statue of their patron that now graces the church campus. That morning, the community also sent fourthfor 15 missionaries from the parish who are doing the work of Christ in the African country of Zambia July 29 - Aug. 8. Check out the mission group's updates on the St. James website.

More than 100 people pray outside abortion clinic

2010-07-10T13:10:00.003-04:00

I’m a deep believer in the power of prayer, and I want to thank all of those who joined me in prayer outside the Women’s Health Care Clinic today, Saturday July 10. I plan to pray outside the clinic again, and I encourage others to go there and pray for the values of life. A simple prayer, without saying another word, is a very powerful thing to do.

50th Anniversary Mass for St. Maria Goretti Parish, Bay City

2010-07-01T15:16:00.001-04:00

I was great to visit with the parishioners at St. Maria Goretti Parish in Bay City on Sunday, June 27, and celebrate the 50th anniversary of their parish. Thank you to parishioner Teresa Loree for sharing photos she took of the occasion. See more of her photos on my Facebook page.

Our Lady, Chesaning

2010-06-09T14:24:00.000-04:00

Today I was able to celebrate Mass and visit with students at Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Chesaning as they prepare to conclude their school year. It is always a blessing to be in the company of young people.

Cemetery Blessing in Frankenmuth

2010-06-02T15:31:00.004-04:00

It was great to be in Frankenmuth on Sunday to bless the first Catholic cemetery. What a wonderful celebration for the people of Blessed Trinity Parish!

See more photos here.

Homily from today's Ordination to the Priesthood

2010-05-21T22:46:00.003-04:00

See photos from the Ordination.

On this day, 1 year ago ...

2010-05-20T08:14:00.003-04:00

Pope Benedict XVI announced he had selected Philadelphia Auxiliary Bishop Joseph R. Cistone to become sixth bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Saginaw.

Look back at pictures from May 20, 2009.

Celebrating my 1st Birthday as Bishop of Saginaw!

2010-05-18T13:15:00.003-04:00

The diocesan staff surprised me with cake again today while I was at a luncheon with priests following the annual Senior Priests' Mass at the Center for Ministry. ( I told you they love any excuse to have a party!)

With yesterday being the anniversary of my priestly ordination and today being my birthday, I often enjoy asking children how it could be possible that I was ordained when I was 25, but didn't celebrate my first Mass until I was 26. Their first response is often that it must have been because I needed more training. (Don't you just love kids?!) The truth is that I celebrated my first Mass on my 26th birthday, which was the next day following my ordination in 1975.

Thank you to all of you who have wished me a happy anniversary and happy birthday during this, my first year as Bishop of Saginaw. God love you!

35 Years as a Priest!

2010-05-17T13:25:00.002-04:00

The diocesan staff celebrated the 35th anniversary of my ordination to the priesthood - May 17, 1975 - with cake this morning at the Diocesan Center. (Boy, these people will use any excuse to have a party!)

Homily from Friday's Ordination to the Order of Deacon (and more)

2010-05-17T11:00:00.003-04:00

You also may read the text of my homily and see photos from Friday's ordination.

Bishop's Charity Ball Photos

2010-05-03T08:39:00.000-04:00

Click here to see more photos!

From the 2010 Bishop's Charity Ball ...

2010-04-30T22:41:00.001-04:00

Tonight I sang Lefty Frizzell's 1964 No. 1 country hit "Saginaw, Michigan" for the participants of the 2010 Bishop's Charity Ball at the Horizons Conference Center in Saginaw. The Bishop's Charity Ball benefits Catholic schools and parish religious education programs. This year's event was the first for me since I installed as the Diocese of Saginaw's sixth bishop in July 2009. The Communications Office has promised more photos and uploads from tonight's ball to be posted online next week.

You also can read about this year's Bishop Murphy Award winner.

Ground Breaking at St. Brigid School in Midland

2010-04-21T14:38:00.001-04:00

I had the honor today of breaking ground on a very exciting building expansion project at St. Brigid of Kildare School in downtown Midland. Read more about it at see videos on the DoS News blog.

From FAITH Saginaw: Raising holy families is 'domestic engineering'

2010-04-07T13:32:00.003-04:00

As a young priest, I was engaged in parish visitations. It was customary each year for the priests to visit the homes of all registered parishioners. Besides spending a few minutes with parishioners in their homes, particularly those who were not accustomed to coming to Mass or practicing their faith, we also took the time to conduct a yearly census.

We collected various information, e.g. who lived in the home, ages, educational background, sacramental history and practice, as well as occupations and other helpful data. In order to fit the information on a small census card, we had to use codes. When it came to “occupation,” “P” meant Professional; L=Laborer; M=Management; HW=Housewife; and so on.

In one home, next to the name of the wife and mother, my predecessor wrote “DE.” I didn’t know what this abbreviation meant, so I asked the woman if she knew. With an air of satisfaction, the woman said: “I told the priest last year, I did not like the term ‘housewife’ because it doesn’t reflect the dignity of what I do in my life. So I told Father I was a “Domestic Engineer!”

While she was referring to her everyday responsibilities within the home, I do not think she understood just how “theologically correct” her response was. The Second Vatican Council, when speaking of family life, referred to the family as the “Domestic Church.”

Read of the rest of my column on pages 14 and 15 of the new Spring 2010 issue of FAITH Saginaw magazine.

Chrism Mass 2010

2010-03-30T14:54:00.007-04:00

Below you will find the text of my homily given at today's Chrism Mass at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption:

I want to thank all of you for joining us here at the Cathedral for this Chrism Mass. I offer a particular welcome to all the young people who have gathered here. I hope you find this ceremony informative and inspiring.

In a special way I wish to greet you, my brother priests. This Mass speaks distinctively to us who have been called by God and graced by the gift of the Priesthood. I pray it is a day of renewal and blessings for all of you.

In the Chrism Mass, the Church celebrates two important elements associated with our faith: the Blessing of Oils and the Renewal of Priestly Promises. Ordinarily, the Chrism Mass takes place on Holy Thursday, before the Mass of the Lord’s Supper. For obvious reasons, this is not always possible for dioceses like our own where distance makes it difficult for all the priests to gather on Holy Thursday. However, there is an important connection between these two liturgical celebrations, which I will explain.

Click here to view the text of the entire homily.

Also watch for photos of today's Mass to be posted on Facebook!

Holy Week Schedule

2010-03-26T15:36:00.001-04:00

I will celebrate the liturgies of Holy Week at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption, 615 Hoyt Ave., in Saginaw. My schedule is as follows:

10 a.m. Sunday: Mass, Palm Sunday of the Lord’s Passion
10:30 a.m., Tuesday: Chrism Mass
7 p.m., Thursday: Mass of the Lord’s Supper
1 p.m., Friday: Celebration of the Lord’s Passion
9 p.m., Saturday: Mass, The Easter Vigil
10 a.m., April 4: Mass, Easter Sunday, The Resurrection of the Lord

Visit to St. Mary, Alma

2010-03-23T15:30:00.000-04:00

I visited with students at St. Mary School in Alma on Friday, March 19. What fun! I also met many great people from the parish community there after celebrating daily Mass. Principal Lisa Seeley sent over some photos from the day. Enjoy!

Sunday Mass at St. Hedwig, Bay City

2010-03-23T15:22:00.002-04:00

I celebrated Mass at St. Hedwig in Bay City on Sunday, March 14. Many thanks to parishioner George Thomas for sending some photos to my office!

I have 'fans'?

2010-03-19T14:00:00.001-04:00

The Communications Office decided to celebrate the Solemnity of St. Joseph, by creating a "Fan Page" for me on Facebook. This should be interesting!

Reflecting on Laetare Sunday

2010-03-15T09:12:00.003-04:00

Message for Lent 2010

2010-02-17T11:01:00.002-05:00

Dedication of New Altar in Beal City

2010-02-15T08:47:00.001-05:00

I was blessed to celebrate Mass on Sunday with the people of St. Joseph the Worker Parish in Beal City. While there, I dedicated and consecrated a beautiful new altar, depositing, within it, the relics of three martyrs, anointing its surface with sacred chrism oil, and incensing it. Enjoy the photos below, which were provided courtesy of the parish.

Mass and Visit with Students at Sacred Heart School in Gladwin

2010-02-05T16:33:00.004-05:00

I visited today with students at Sacred Heart School in Gladwin and celebrated Mass with them, their families and other parishioners there. While Catholic Schools Week is celebrated across our nation this week I have had the chance to visit many of our schools during the past two weeks and I am looking forward to visiting others next week. So, Catholic Schools Week is really three weeks to me! What a joyful blessing it is to spend time with the young Church! Enjoy the video post of my homily today and pictures from my visit to the school.

Concluding our March for Life pilgrimage at the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception

2010-01-23T22:00:00.002-05:00

Posted below is my homily from the vigil Mass that preceded our departure from Washington D.C. following the March for Life. In all, we were about 650 pilgrims - gathered in the Crypt Church of the Basilica - from the Diocese of Saginaw, our neighboring Diocese of Grand Rapids, and brothers and sisters from the Diocese of Rockford, Ill.

First Reading: Neh 8:2-4a, 5-6, 8-10

Second Reading: 1 Cor 12:12-30 or 12:12-14, 27

Gospel: Lk 1:1-4; 4:14-21

Preparing for our pilgrimage to the March for Life

2010-01-21T21:30:00.001-05:00

Posted below is my homily from today’s morning Mass with 350 diocesan pilgrims preparing to travel to the annual March for Life in Washington D.C. It is fitting that today also is the Feast of St. Agnes, a young martyr, who was not ashamed to be a bold witness of her faith in Jesus Christ.

First Reading: 1 Sm 18:6-9; 19:1-7
Gosepl: Mk 3:7-12

Interview with WNEM TV 5 and WJRT TV 12

2010-01-19T17:00:00.002-05:00

I was interviewed today by WNEM TV 5’s Tia Ewing and WJRT TV 12's Rebecca Trylch about Monday’s announcement that the Saginaw Area Catholic Schools system would be consolidating its four elementary/middle schools — St. Helen, SS. Peter & Paul, St. Stephen and St. Thomas Aquinas — into two buildings on March 2. The complete interview is below:

Sunday was a fun day with the Spirit!

2010-01-18T08:39:00.009-05:00

Yesterday I had the privileged of participating in Faith Night festivities at the Saginaw Spirit hockey game. I reflected on Christian sportsmanship with more than 300 people gathered with their families and friends for the pregame program, which also included an inspirational message about community service from Jimmy E. Greene and some wonderful musical performed by Lavel Jackson. I also had the honor of dropping a ceremonial first puck on the ice. I met some great young people and the famous mascot Steagle Colbeagle the Eagle, and watched an exciting hockey game. I even got my very own Spirit Jersey with "B. CISTONE" on the back! Unfortunately, the Spirit lost 3-2, but it was a fun day all-and-all. Enjoy the photos and the video from the day’s activities!

2010-01-05T16:30:00.000-05:00

Join me at the Saginaw Spirit's Faith Night game on Jan. 17!

2009 Christmas Message to the Faithful of the Diocese of Saginaw

2009-12-21T09:03:00.002-05:00

A PDF file of my Christmas letter, sent out last week to be shared through the parishes, may be downloaded here.

Homily for the Fourth Sunday of Advent, given at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption, Saginaw

2009-12-21T08:58:00.002-05:00

First Reading: Mi 5:1-4a
Second Reading: Heb 10:5-10
Gospel: Lk 1:39-45

Christmas Letter to the Faithful

2009-12-17T10:20:00.003-05:00

Attached at the following link is a PDF file of my Christmas letter to the faithful of the Catholic Diocese of Saginaw, which can be downloaded for distribution at parishes. Click here for the letter.

Also watch for a video version of my Christmas message to appear both here and on the diocesan homepage, www.saginaw.org on Monday!

Homily for Thursday, December, 17, 2009, given at the weekly Mass with diocesan staff at the Center for Ministry Chapel, Saginaw

2009-12-17T10:14:00.000-05:00

First Reading: Gn 49:2, 8-10
Gospel: Mt 1:1-17

Announcing Fr. Robert Byrne as Vicar for Catholic Schools

2009-12-16T14:00:00.005-05:00

Today, I announced that I have named Father Robert H. Byrne, Pastor of Blessed Trinity Parish in Frankenmuth, to serve as Vicar for Catholic Schools for the Diocese of Saginaw. I shared the following prepared remarks about the appointment with the Pastors and Pastoral Administrators of the Diocese during our quarterly meeting together yesterday:

"Since becoming the Bishop of the Diocese of Saginaw, I have dedicated a great deal of time, thought and prayer to the issue of Catholic Education in general and Catholic Schools in particular. Clearly, Catholic education extends well beyond our established Catholic elementary, middle and secondary schools. Catholic education is a cradle-to-grave endeavor. It is essential for us to develop ways to enhance Catholic educational programs and opportunities for those children who do not attend Catholic school as well as for our adult faithful who are in need of or simply desire a deeper knowledge of the Catholic Faith."

"I am convinced that Catholic schools remain our strongest means of forming, developing, and educating our Catholic youth. The strength of our Catholic Church is dependent upon our ability to provide quality and affordable Catholic education in a Catholic school setting. I have pledged and continue to pledge my personal commitment to do everything within my power to maintain a strong Catholic school program for our diocese."

"However, the challenges which currently face our parents, parishes and diocese in efforts to maintain our Catholic schools are greater than ever. Enrollment has been on a steady decline due, in part, to the declining birth rate itself. Simply put: there are fewer children to educate. Fewer children mean higher costs. Higher costs make it more difficult for those families who are struggling financially in these turbulent fiscal times; and so, many are forced to transfer their children to public schools. As we have all come to experience, this creates a circular effect: fewer children, higher costs, diminishing resources, fewer schools. This condition is also compounded by the fact that a considerable number of Catholic parents do not fully appreciate the importance of formal education for their children in the Catholic Faith."

"This confluence of circumstances has created a critical situation for a number of our parish elementary schools. Despite all commendable efforts, they are faced with the necessary task of considering consolidation with neighboring schools or, in some cases, closure. Bay Area Catholic Schools (BACS) and Saginaw Area Catholic Schools (SACS) each address the schools in their respective areas as a system. Unfortunately, all other parishes are left to address this situation in relative isolation. There is no diocesan office, personnel or mechanism that allows the rural parishes to address the issue cooperatively, in mutual dialogue."

"When I arrived in the diocese, the schools office was without leadership. There was no Superintendent of Schools or liaison for pastors, pastoral administrators, principals or teachers. There was a regional superintendent for BACS as well as a regional vicar to provide some leadership. On the other hand, with only one week before the opening of the academic year, there was no regional superintendent for SACS and no principal for Nouvel. We then hired a new principal for Nouvel on the condition that she would also assume regional superintendent responsibilities for SACS. Unlike BACS, a regional vicar was not assigned to SACS."

"There still remains no regional superintendent for Rural schools. After much consultation and reflection, I have formulated my own plan for leadership and coordination in a way that would not create any extensive change or re-organization. I am committed to the need to hire an over-all Superintendent of Schools, the salary for which is in the budget. This person would report directly to me and would have oversight responsibilities for the other two regional superintendents, that is, of BACS and SACS. In addition, this new Superintendent of Schools would assume specific duties as regional superintendent for the Rural Schools. It is my hope that this position will be filled by a competent Religious, man or woman. This is my ultimate plan to which I continue to apply myself. In September, I wrote to three religious congregations to ascertain if they could recommend a qualified person to serve as Superintendent of Schools. Unfortunately, September is not the opportune time to post such a position since qualified individuals are already in place for the current academic year. So, immediately after the new year begins, I will again reach out to religious congregations with the hope that we will have a Superintendent of Schools in place for the 2010-2011 academic year."

"In the meantime, our rural schools continue to face their educational challenges effectively alone. This is a situation which is simply unacceptable. Our pastors, pastoral administrators, principals, teachers and parish committees need leadership and coordination."

"Tomorrow, I will publicly announce that I have appointed Father Robert Byrne, Pastor of Blessed Trinity Parish, Frankenmuth, to serve as my Vicar for Catholic Schools. Father Byrne has graciously expressed his willingness to assume this new responsibility in addition to his duties as Pastor of Blessed Trinity Parish. Since late October, Father Byrne and I have engaged in several discussions about the challenges we are facing and potential ways of addressing them. As Vicar for Catholic Schools, Father Byrne will represent me to the entire diocesan school community and will advise me on school issues across the diocese. He will assist me in evaluating candidates for the position of Superintendent of Schools and re-establishing the Schools Office in the Diocesan Center. Most especially, at this critical moment, he will provide leadership and support to the pastors, pastoral administrators, superintendents, principals, teachers and school committees and boards of all Catholic schools in the Diocese of Saginaw. A more complete job description of the Vicar for Catholic Schools has been developed and will be provided to you and the public. It is my plan that Father Byrne will serve in this role until the end of the 2010-2011 academic year. It would be my hope that, at the beginning of that school year next Fall, we will have in place a Superintendent of Schools. In this way, Father Byrne can work with that person to orient him or her to the Diocese of Saginaw and to ensure a smooth period of transition as the Superintendent assumes greater responsibility and oversight of our schools."

"I am deeply grateful to Father Byrne for accepting this new responsibility. I am sensitive to his parish obligations and realize the sacrifice I have asked him to make. However, his contributions to the educational needs of the diocese are greatly needed. Father Byrne brings a wealth of priestly, pastoral, educational and administrative experience to this position. Even in this period of preliminary discussions with him, I feel a greater confidence and have gained deeper insight regarding the local situation and clearer direction as to the necessary measures which must be taken to improve our educational program."

"In the immediately future, Father Byrne will contact the pastors, principals and pastoral administrators of the rural schools in order to arrange a meeting together to assess each local situation and to strategize a course of action. I have also asked him to meet with the superintendents of BACS and SACS to ensure a unity of mission and vision for Catholic schools throughout the diocese."

"I want to reiterate my commitment to Catholic education for all and to Catholic schools in particular. I have often said that my faith in God, my love for the Church and her sacraments and my priestly vocation are due, in large measure, to my years of education in Catholic schools. There is no doubt that the lack of knowledge of our Faith has a direct affect on the diminished Mass attendance and participation in our parishes. Since coming to this diocese, I have tried my best to understand the critical situation which confronts us as regards Catholic education and schools, to discern what actions I might take to transform a declining enrollment into an increasing one, and to address the financial constraints arising from diminished resources. I know, however, that you as priests and pastoral administrators, serving in direct relationship with the faithful, have a greater influence on the people you serve. I implore you to assist your school families to allow them to continue to send their children to our parish schools, and to do whatever is possible to encourage the parents of those who do not attend Catholic schools to seriously consider doing so."

"While difficult and painful decisions regarding Catholic schools still lie ahead, I remain hopeful that our schools will pass through these challenging times stronger than ever. This can only be done through mutual cooperation, obvious sacrifices and a confident trust that the hand of the Lord is here to guide us. May Saint John Neumann, in his love for Catholic schools, guide and bless all our endeavors."

Homily for the Third Sunday of Advent, given at St. Maria Goretti, Bay City

2009-12-15T08:40:00.001-05:00

First Reading: Zep 3:14-18a
Second Reading: Phil 4:4-7
Gospel: Lk 3:10-18

Homily for the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, given at the Center for Ministry Chapel, Saginaw

2009-12-08T10:08:00.001-05:00

First Reading: Gn 3:9-15, 20
Second Reading: Eph 1:3-16, 11-12
Gospel: Lk 1:26-28

Homily for the Second Sunday of Advent, given at Holy Trinity, Bay City

2009-12-07T09:44:00.005-05:00

First Reading: Bar 5:1-9
Second Reading: Phil 1:4-6, 8-11
Gospel: Lk 3:1-6