Diocesan Services Appeal:
Bishop writes to Catholics

By Mary C. Uhler
CATHOLIC HERALD STAFF

MADISON -- This week, Catholics throughout the Diocese of Madison will be receiving a personal letter from Bishop Robert C. Morlino.

The bishop is communicating directly with over 66,000 households in the diocese about the annual Diocesan Services Appeal (DSA).

Along with the letter is a brochure describing diocesan ministries that the DSA helps to fund, along with the budget for the diocese. A pledge envelope is also enclosed.   Full story ...

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SUN PRAIRIE -- The Rite of Election of Catechumens and Call to Continuing Conversion for Candidates for Full Communion in the Catholic Church will be celebrated by parishes of the Diocese of Madison on Sunday, Feb. 29, at 2:30 p.m. at St. Albert the Great Parish in Sun Prairie.

Over 50 parishes will send nearly 300 people who will celebrate the sacraments of initiation this Easter, as well as their sponsors, family, and friends. Bishop Robert C. Morlino will preside.

The celebration comes from an ancient Christian practice where those who were to celebrate the sacraments of initiation (baptism, confirmation, and Eucharist) come forward at the beginning of Lent to show their intent. The people of the church, in turn, promise their support, guidance, and prayers.

The celebration is one part of a long process which is called The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults(RCIA). The RCIA encompasses many facets of initiation, from the time a person experiences the call of Christ or wishes to know about the church, to the celebration of the sacraments of initiation and continued growth as a Christian.
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Healing Mass:
Special emphasis on healing the family tree

By Fr. Rick Heilman
FOR THE CATHOLIC HERALD

MONTELLO -- All are invited to worship together at a special Healing Mass for "Healing the Family Tree." This Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, March 2, at 6:30 p.m. at St. John the Baptist Church, 277 E. Montello St.

This Mass is being offered to pray for all those seeking healing in their lives, be it physical, spiritual, emotional, relational, or any area in which healing is desired. Special emphasis will be placed on seeking "Intergenerational Healing" within our family tree.   Full story ...