News briefs for July 25, 20192 min read

Seminarians to declare candidacy

Diocesan seminarians Isaiah Schick and Daniel Tracy, who have finished their pre-theology stage of seminary, will declare their candidacy for the priesthood during the 4 p.m. Mass at the Cathedral of Christ the King on Saturday, Aug. 10.

During the rite, which takes place after the homily, Bishop James P. Powers will question the seminarians regarding their desire to continue on in priestly formation.

This is the students’ formal declaration that they desire to continue on in theological studies with the hope of future ordination.

Both men will begin their four-year theology studies program this fall at Saint Francis de Sales Seminary in Milwaukee.

The length of the pre-theology stage can vary. For Tracy, it lasted two years, which is the typical length in a Wisconsin diocese. For Schick, it was only one, given that he was a part of the priestly discernment program for four years at his alma mater, the Franciscan University of Steubenville.

Deciding when students will declare their candidacy for the priesthood is made on a case-by-case basis. The bishop, vocation director and seminary faculty collaboratively decide. Men who finish a college degree often are completing two years of pre-theology before four years of theology.

Picnic and Praise in Haugen

On Aug. 3 at 4 p.m., there will be a Picnic and Praise gathering with musician Luke Spehar at Holy Trinity Church, Haugen.

Bring a side dish and lawn chairs for the picnic grill-out and outdoor concert.

Diocese offers second send-off retreat

A send-off retreat for college students and recent graduates will take place at 5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 10, at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Dobie.

The optional overnight event will include games, a potluck dinner, fellowship, adoration and confession as well as a bonfire and campout for those able to stay. In the morning, there will be breakfast and 10 a.m. Mass to conclude the retreat.

Participants are asked to RSVP to Bryn Rademaker at .

Bring a meal item, prayer materials and overnight needs; semi-formal attire is requested for the Sunday Mass. Anyone with an extra tent is asked to bring one.

Rademaker said, “The retreat’s focus is to inspire our diocesan young adults to continue to invest in their faith while away from the comfort of their families at home.

“Our hope is to foster connections of the young adults in our community who are also striving towards the Lord amidst the negative societal pressures of university life.”