Message from Bishop John
January 2024
CATY MRAZ | THE U.P. CATHOLIC
Bishop John Doerfler greets honorees and attendees of the Milestone Wedding Anniversary Mass held on Sept. 17, 2023 at St. Peter Cathedral in Marquette.
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
Greetings in Jesus Christ.
With this message, I hope to start a monthly communication via Flocknote, in which I reflect on the happenings in the Diocese of Marquette, or other topics.
In early December I had the privilege of installing two new pastors; Father Jins Joseph, the new pastor of Sacred Heart, L’anse, Saint Ann, Baraga, and Holy Name of Jesus/Saint Kateri, Assinins; and Father Corey Litzner, the new pastor of Resurrection, Hancock and Saint Francis, Dollar Bay. They are two fine priests, and they are off to a great start in their new parishes.
What is a pastor installation all about? It is an optional rite that I believe is a meaningful experience for the parishioners and the priest. During the installation, the priest publicly makes the profession of faith and oath to faithfully fulfill his duties as pastor. The people can witness their new pastor profess the faith that the martyrs died for and his solemn oath to be faithful to his commitment to serve them and the Church. It is a joyous celebration! Normally I spend the whole weekend at the parish or parishes and celebrate all the weekend Masses. There is usually a potluck or reception after the Masses. This provides for me the opportunity to spend time with you. One of my favorite things to do as a bishop is to visit the parishes in the diocese. The odometer on my vehicle tells that I do this quite a bit.
As we start the New Year, I am grateful for the many blessings that God has given me. One of those blessings is you. You are faith-filled, good, down-to-earth people, and it is a privilege to serve as your bishop. Thank you. May the days ahead fill you with an abundance of the Lord’s blessings.
In Christ,
+Bishop John F. Doerfler
+Bishop John F. Doerfler
The U.P. Catholic Flocknote Newsletter Update
Starting January 2024, The U.P. Catholic Flocknote newsletter will be published once monthly on the fourth Thursday of the month.
Bishop John's newsletter will be published on the second Thursday of the month.
