Happy Feast Day!
The day after this releases, the church celebrates the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord, the 40th day after Christmas. As we contemplate Jesus being brought to the temple, the spring-like weather in January, and the busy sports seasons underway, catchup on the latest here at St. Joseph in this Valentine's Day edition of The Journey!
St. Joseph Parish Life
Chair TBD
Seminarian Corner
Our very own seminarian, Steven Kessler, was home for Christmas this year, but in January he returned to seminary formation. After about one week there, he moved to St. Ludmilla Parish in Cedar Rapids where he will spend the rest of the semester in ministry. He would love to hear from parishioners in the Pastorate, so send notes, letters, and of course prayers his way. Call the Parish Center if you'd like his contact information.
St. Joseph is need of a new Parish Life Coordinator. Please contact Fr. John Haugen or the Parish Center for more information on this volunteer position. Mostly in the background and organizing, this position is vital to the life of our vibrant parish!
St. Joseph Pastoral Council
Bill Erickson, Chair
The Archdiocese of Dubuque - and by association the parishes of the Emmaus Pastorate - is on a journey to know, love, and serve Christ by embracing his vision for missionary discipleship. The first step in this process involved assessing our greatest strengths and opportunities using the Disciple Maker Index (DMI) survey! This important survey tool invited all parishioners to reflect on their discipleship journey. It was designed to:
- Invite parishioners to reflect on their journey of discipleship,
- Enable parish leadership to make data-driven decisions, and
- Help parishioners grow in their faith.
The survey is now closed, and we appreciate everyone who took the time to complete it! The information will be kept confidential. The responses are now being tallied and discussed among Archdiocesan leadership. Conclusions and results will be available sometime this spring. Stay tuned to our bulletin, Facebook pages, end of Mass announcements, and this newsletter for those updates!
Faith Formation
Danielle Becwar
St. Joseph Coordinator of Faith Formation
February is Black History Month
Learn about African American Catholic Saints and celebrate the influence and beautiful witness of those who broke racial barriers and fought against racial injustice while spreading the word of God. Learn about and pray with African Americans in the Catholic Church with the Prayer Service found here.
February 2 - World Day for Consecrated Life
Pray for those who have made commitments to consecrated life, and thank them on this special day. May they continue to be inspired by Jesus Christ and respond generously to God's gift of their vocation.
February 8 - International Day of Prayer and Awareness against Human Trafficking
On this day, Catholics all over the world are encouraged to pray for and create greater awareness about and combat the tragic reality of human trafficking. Learn about St. Josephine Bakhita, the patron saint of victims of human trafficking.
February is the month of the Holy Family!
February marks a transition from the feast of Christmas to the fasting of Lent. Therefore, traditionally, February has become a time to honor the Holy Family; within the Holy Family is where Jesus spent the time between his birth and embarking on his public ministry. To celebrate the Month of the Holy Family, pick a day (or more!) to spend together doing family activities all day, such as games, family prayer, outdoor fun, a movie night, or whatever activity your family loves best! Pray the Litany of the Holy Family. Check out the Archdiocese of Dubuque website for more family prayer resources!
Little Flowers Club Spreads Love and Kindness!
This month, the Little Flowers learned about the virtue of Love for God and the inspiring life of Saint Agnes. The virtue of Love for God, also known as Charity, is a precious gift from God, infused into our souls at Baptism. It strengthens us to love the Lord above all things—not for any reward, but simply because He is good and worthy of our love. No one is more deserving of our love than God, who not only gave us life but also the family and friends we cherish, as well as this beautiful world in which we live, work, and play.
Saint Agnes is a shining example of unwavering love for God. At just 13 years old, she refused marriage, choosing instead to dedicate her life to Christ. Because of her steadfast faith, she was martyred, becoming a powerful witness to purity and devotion. Her symbol, the lamb, reflects her innocence and gentleness, and she is honored as the patron saint of young girls. Saint Agnes teaches us that true courage is found not in our own strength but in the humble surrender of our hearts to God, even in the face of great trials.
For this month’s Little Flowers medal project, the girls created a special home altar space in their bedrooms. To help them get started, they painted crosses to hang in their rooms—a beautiful reminder of their love for God and their growing faith.
God is Love... and so are these Valentines! Join us during the weekend Masses of February 1-9 as NCYC attendees sell special Valentines to support their registration to this life-changing event!
Spread the Love: Valentines will be available for purchase after Mass at all Emmaus Pastorate parishes for just $1 (heart) or $5 (heart + added to the Emmaus Pastorate Valentine's video). Hearts will adorn the glass doors of each parish during the weekend of February 15-16!
Special Bonus: Valentines purchased for $5 will be featured in the Emmaus Pastorate Valentine's video, airing on social media on February 14! Let’s decorate the glass doors of our churches with special messages on February 15-16 showcasing God's love and grace to online communities through a special message from the Emmaus Pastorate on Valentine's Day.
Spread the Love: Valentines will be available for purchase after Mass at all Emmaus Pastorate parishes for just $1 (heart) or $5 (heart + added to the Emmaus Pastorate Valentine's video). Hearts will adorn the glass doors of each parish during the weekend of February 15-16!
Special Bonus: Valentines purchased for $5 will be featured in the Emmaus Pastorate Valentine's video, airing on social media on February 14! Let’s decorate the glass doors of our churches with special messages on February 15-16 showcasing God's love and grace to online communities through a special message from the Emmaus Pastorate on Valentine's Day.
Iowa Catholic Youth Conference
The 4th Annual Iowa Catholic Youth Conference (ICYC) targets those in grades 6-8 and their parents and is set for Sunday, March 30, 2025. Mark your calendars! The event, which is co-sponsored by the Archdiocese of Dubuque and the Diocese of Davenport, will take place at St. Ludmila Parish in Cedar Rapids (where Steven Kessler is serving) and will feature the energetic Catholic artist and witness of faith, Connor Flanagan. More information and registration can be found HERE.
Adult Faith Formation
Fran Zichal, Emmaus Pastorate
Adult Faith Formation Coordinator
Order of Christian Initiation of Adults
Three people have begun the process of joining the church. We also have four team members helping Fran Zichal with that process. Please keep Justin Dillion from Sacred Heart, Jamie Venteicher from St. Mark, Deacon Paul, and Dani Becwar in your prayers as they guide our inquirers! And if you know someone interested in becoming Catholic, please contact Fran Zichal. Her contact information is below.
National Marriage Week - February 7-14
This year's theme is "Marriage: Source of Hope, Spring of Renewal. Pursue a Lasting Love!" This special day highlights the loving union and personal self-gift of husband and wife that is willed by God, and points to Christ who gives Himself to us in perfect love. Join your spouse in offering a Prayer for Married Couples, or take an at-home Seven-Day Virtual Marriage Retreat.
Beauty in Christ Women's Conference
Thanks to all those who attended the women's conference last weekend! It was a good experience for all! We appreciate Fr. John guidance, Deacon Paul's setup, and the Knights of Columbus' food! The women would like to repay the men by providing food during the men's conference in March. Stay tuned! Also, special thanks to Diane Meyer and her skit promoting the event. Twenty-three women attended the conference on January 25.
SHE Returns!
Our second She Shall Be Called Woman series will begin on Thursday, February 13. Your enthusiastic participation in our first group was greatly appreciated, and we look forward to another enriching and inspiring journey together.
She Shall Be Called Woman is a transformative journey designed to meet the deepest longings of the feminine heart. Our program is a sanctuary for women seeking to be truly seen, known, and loved as they grow in their relationship with the Lord. Through vibrant conversations, authentic speakers, and enriching prayer experiences, we equip you with the tools to embark on a profound spiritual journey. Join us for food, fellowship, and faith. All women are welcome!
If you've attended in the past, you don't need to re-register. If you are a first-time attendee, please register online by clicking the button below or contacting any of the members of the core team.
Our sessions will be held in the St. Mary Upper Room from 6:00pm-7:30pm and will include light refreshments. Please let Lori Keppler know by February 1 if you want to order a devotional for the group. The cost of each book is $25.00, which can be paid at the first session. Her contact info is below. We are excited to see you all again and to continue our meaningful conversations and fellowship.
Learn more at www.SheShallBeCalledWoman.com.
SHE core team: Lori Keppler, Jennifer Fuller, April Schaffer, Fran Zichal, Beth Petsche, and Cathy White
SHE core team: Lori Keppler, Jennifer Fuller, April Schaffer, Fran Zichal, Beth Petsche, and Cathy White
2025 Archdiocesan Men's Conference
Saturday, March 29, 2025
St. Pius X, Cedar Rapids
This year’s Men's Conference will feature Michael Gormley as the keynote speaker. The day will also include Mass with Archbishop Thomas Zinkula, breakout sessions, lunch, and more. Additional information and registration are available at https://archmensconference.org/. Contact Matt Selby with any questions. This event is sponsored by Catholic Foundation of the Archdiocese of Dubuque and the Knights of Columbus.
Do you have an idea for a class or discussion? Springtime faith formation opportunities are taking shape now. Call Fran Zichal or Kim Warpinski with your input. Their info is below.
Baptism Class
The third baptism class of 2024-2025 will be on Wednesday, February 5 at 6:00pm in the St. Mary Faith Formation Center. All parents requesting baptism for their child are asked to first attend a class. Please call John Uhal at the St. Joseph Parish Center (563-245-2548) or email him at j.uhal@dbqarch.org to register. Preregistration is recommended but not required. The final class for the academic year will be on May 7, 2025 at 6:00pm at St. Joseph Parish Center in Elkader.
Liturgy & Worship
John Uhal, Emmaus Pastorate
Director of Liturgy & Worship and Webmaster
In Saving Waters
Congratulations to Michele (Myers) and Nathan Thole, whose daughter, Wynn Diane, was baptized on January 4 at St. Joseph!
In Loving Memory
We fondly remember the one and only Gary Carlson who died last month. Gary was known, among other things, for his photography, and these are just some of his own shots. May his memory be a blessing to all!
Merry Christmas!
Thanks again to everyone who helped St. Joseph celebrate the Christmas season! From guest presiders, to environment, from ministers, to choir, it was the most wonderful time of year!
You Asked. Rome Answered!
There was much confusion in December over whether or not a holyday of obligation that is transferred from its usual day to another still carries the obligation to attend Mass. Every December 8, Catholics celebrate Mary, her Immaculate Conception, and her being the patroness of the United States. In 2024, this day coincided with the Second Sunday of Advent, which took precedence. The holyday was moved to the next day, but many wondered whether they were required to attend Mass. Well we asked the bishops in Rome, and they replied!
The Dicastery for the Discipline of the Sacraments, having consulted the Dicastery for Legislative Texts, by means of this Note hereby specifies the following from Vatican City on January 23, 2025:
Since this practice is not contrary to the canons of the Code of Canon Law, it is to be considered liturgical law (cf. Canon 2) that in the event of the occasional transfer of a holyday of obligation, the obligation to attend Mass is not transferred to the day.
Since this practice is not contrary to the canons of the Code of Canon Law, it is to be considered liturgical law (cf. Canon 2) that in the event of the occasional transfer of a holyday of obligation, the obligation to attend Mass is not transferred to the day.
So the next time a holyday of obligation is transferred, you'll know the obligation to attend Mass no longer applies. Hopefully you'll still come pray though!
New Chair!
As of January 24, we welcome Ann Gibney as the new chair of our Hospitality Ministers. We thank Fran Zichal for all of her years of leadership and appreciate Ann taking the reins in the new year!
Cross Your Candles!
The annual blessing of throats will take place at the end of Sunday Masses on February 1-2. The Memorial of St. Blase, Bishop and Martyr, is on Monday, February 3.
Daily Worship Returns to Normal
Now that Fr. John is well into his recovery and after taking time to slowly return to regularly presiding at liturgies, he'll be resuming daily Mass as usual this month. As a reminder, daily Mass is available four days each week with two exceptions. First, Mass is moved to Edgewood Convalescent Home on the second Thursday and Elkader Care Center on the second Friday of each month. Second, should a funeral fall on a weekday, the daily Mass that day is converted to Word & Communion, unless the funeral is at the parish which normally would have daily Mass. In that case, the funeral Mass simply replaces the daily Mass. Third, there will be no daily worship if school is cancelled delayed at the parish’s nearby school (indicated below). We hope you join us!
Regular Daily Mass Schedule
Tuesdays: 8:00am @ Sacred Heart (Central) & St. Patrick (Ed-Co) Parishes
Wednesdays: 7:00am @ St. Mark Parish (Ed-Co)
Thursdays: 8:00am @ St. Mary Parish (Starmont)
Fridays: 8:00am @ St. Joseph Parish (Central)
New to The Journey
The monthly ministry schedule is now included! Click the button to view and download it. Remember, if you can't fill your date, please find a substitute. Thanks!
KMCH Sponsors
- February 2: Rodney & Kim Swales
- February 9: Dr. Judy & Mary Ellen Beckman
- February 16: Harry & Kathy Wulfekuhle
- February 23: Diana Helle
January Mass Intentions
- February 1: Don & Rita Gardner
- February 7: Francis Whittle
- February 8: Patrick Keleher
- February 14: Fr. Paul Peters
- February 15: for the people of St. Joseph Parish
- February 21: Corby Gundacker
- February 22: Mike & Linda Stowe
Social Justice Committee
Colleen Moore, Chair
176 Years Collections
Since we were so successful in collecting +1827 items for the Clayton County Food Shelf and Shepherd of the Hills last year, we've decided to keep it going in our 176th year!!
- January - 264 boxes of cereal were collected!
- February - soups & crackers
- March - pancake mix and syrup
- April - canned vegetables (corn, creamed corn, pork 'n' beans, peas, mixed, green beans, tomatoes, etc.)
- May - peanut butter and jelly
- June - canned and boxed dinners
- July - school supplies, socks, and underwear
- August - canned fruit and shelf-stable fruit juice
- September - hats, mittens, and coats
- October - sugar (white, brown, and powdered), flour, baking soda, and vanilla
- November - Giving Tree presents
- December - toiletries, soap, paper products (toothpaste, shampoo, body soap, laundry soap, dish soap, toilet paper, tissues, paper towels, etc.)
February 8 & 9 SOUPER BOWL
On Super Bowl Sunday, let's take time to praise God and care for the least of these by coming together to give ONE DOLLAR as we leave worship. In 1990, a single youth group had a simple prayer: “Lord, even as we enjoy the Super Bowl, help us be mindful of those without a bowl of soup to eat.” Since then, close to $200 million has been generated for local charities across the country through Souper Bowl of Caring. It has become a powerful movement that transforms the time around the Big Game into the nation’s largest celebration of giving and caring for those in need.
Last year, 28 Clayton County area congregations participated, giving a total of $6,076.27. Share in God’s love for our neighbors in need, and give generously on Souper Bowl weekend. All of the donations collected will go directly to the Clayton County Food Shelf in St. Olaf.
Clayton County Food Shelf
In January, $317.25 along with 484lbs of food and other items were donated to the Clayton County Food Shelf. Thank you! Our next collection for the Clayton County Food Shelf will be on February 1. The Food Shelf especially needs pork & beans, mac 'n' cheese, dry dinners, canned fruit, soup, and crackers.
Thanks to the faith formation students who helped load those food items on Wednesday night! You made quick work of it! And thanks to Ray & Joyce Piorkowski for lending their truck and taking the load to St. Olaf!
Knights of Columbus
John Uhal, Grand Knight
Free Throw Contest
Thanks to the 25 boys and girls who played in our annual Free Throw Championship on January 17! It was great fun with more than one shoot off! Congratulations to the winners who are eligible to play at the District Level on February 2 in West Union: Madisyn Deutmeyer, Treyton Moyle, Reegan Perkins, Keagan Sylvester, Emersyn Wiley, Ayce Clark, Kayla Hunt, Cade Zittergruen, Madelyn Pope, Weston Stannard, and Avery Fette.
More Things to Know
Disability Inclusion Party
On January 27, St. Joseph hosted 45 people at the monthly Disability Inclusion Ministry's birthday party! Thanks to everyone who helped supply and serve lunch!
The Disability Inclusion team at St. Joseph is working on arranging a movie night this spring. Work has begun with RISE to get the event prepared in the next few months. If anyone is interested in helping, contact Fran Zichal. Her info is below.
Never miss an issue of our Sunday bulletin! Catch it on our website as early as Thursday or in one of our five churches on Sundays!
Now more than 250!
The Emmaus Pastorate's Podcast has published its 250th episode! Listen to Sunday homilies and other special music episodes anytime, anywhere. Click here and start listening today!
Upcoming Events
- February 1, 15, 22: That Man Is You @ 7:00am @ St. Mary Apartment
- February 1-2: NCYC selling Valentines after all Masses
- February 5: Baptism Class @ 6:00pm @ St. Mary Education Center
- February 13, 20, 27: She Shall Be Called Woman @ 6:00pm @ St. Mary Upper Room
- February 19: Catechist inservice @ 6:00pm @ St. Joseph Parish Hall
- February 22: Wedding of Benjamin Saloga & Jaelynn Hauschild @ 1:30pm @ St. Joseph Parish
- February 24: Disability Inclusion monthly birthday party @ 11:00am-1:00pm @ St. Mark Parish Hall
Do you have something to add to this newsletter? Please send any articles and/or pictures to John Uhal at the Parish Center, by calling 563-245-2548, or by email at j.uhal@dbqarch.org.