Around the Archdiocese

Theology Day - Ancient Christian Practices to Sustain Community: Thursday, April 24

Ancient Christian Practices to Sustain Community: Thursday, April 24                                                                 Understanding differences matters when creating structures that people can step into and be a part of. It is all too easy for a person to feel squeezed out of a community.  We cannot be indifferent to the wear and tear that exhaustion and uncaring brings to community life. Belonging is important. When we understand the differences between ourselves and others, we can better empathize with their experiences, challenges, and perspectives.  Empathy is a bridge between the emotional and the cognitive—our heads and hearts—that shoulders the fruit of the spirt—kindness, peace, joy, self-control and love. Our ancient Christian practices matter.  When fully engaged, we cannot let the hard moments of life go unattended, unthought out.  Time given over to spiritual practices and engaging differences both benefits the individual and grounds one for engagement in life together. April 24, presentation from 6:30 - 9:00 PM, St. Joan of Arc, Minneapolis, MN. Free event. Registration is required: www.theologyday.com, 320-363-3560 or [email protected].

Date Night with the Blessed Sacrament: Thursday, April 24

Jesus’ Pilgrimage to Us - Holy Hours Around the Archdiocese (Year 2: The Mass): Thursday, April 24                                                                                                                                                                                                                       These monthly Eucharistic Holy Hours, held in various regions of the Archdiocese, will be conducted according to the USCCB’s newly revised rite for exposition, adoration and benediction. Held at a new parish each month, all the faithful—and especially those already participating in adoration ministries—are encouraged to communal prayer, that more may come to know and love our Lord in the Eucharist. Find more information and upcoming locations at archspm.org/jesus-pilgrimage-to-us.2025 Priests vs Seminarians Basketball Tournament: Friday, April 25                                                                     Join us from 5:30 - 8:30 PM on Friday, April 25 at St. Charles Borromeo School Gymnasium in St. Anthony for a Priests vs Seminarians Basketball Tournament. At 6:00 PM, the seminarians from The Saint Paul Seminary compete against the seminarians from St. John Vianney College Seminary. At 7:15 PM, the priests will play the winner of the seminarian competition. Concessions available. This event promoting the priesthood vocation is free, fun for all ages and open to the public. Find more information at 10000vocations.org/the-priest--seminarian-basketball-tournament.html.

Healing Mass: Friday, April 25

Catholic Infertility Conference: April 25 & 26
Join us on April 25 and 26 for the Catholic Infertility Conference, a supportive gathering dedicated to families navigating the complex journey of infertility. Hosted at the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe in La Crosse, Wisconsin, this event will provide a safe space to engage with faith, hope, and community. Attendees will hear from experts in reproductive health, clergy, and fellow Catholics who share their personal experiences and insights. The conference will cover a variety of topics, including the spiritual aspects of infertility, medical and ethical considerations in fertility treatments, and practical advice for coping with the emotional challenges of this journey. Cardinal Burke will celebrate the Holy Mass. The Norbertine priests of the Shrine will be available for Confession, and there will be opportunities to venerate the first-class relic of Saint Gianna Molla. With opportunities for prayer, reflection, and healing, this conference aims to help attendees with knowledge and support, reinforcing the belief that they are not alone in their experience. Join us to explore the intersection of faith and fertility, and find encouragement, guidance, and hope as you navigate this path. Cardinal Burke will offer the Holy Mass on Saturday, April 26, for conference attendees, and he will bless the congregation with a First Class Relic of Saint Gianna Molla. Benedictine priest Father Boniface Hicks, O.S.B., will deliver the keynote address on pastoral care for infertile families. More information and registration found here. The suggested donation for in-person is $250, but if that is not affordable, we allow couples to put in what is affordable. The online cost is $100. The conference is free for priests who are desiring to deepen their understanding of how to minister to couples suffering with infertility.

Deacon Discernment Day: Saturday, April 26                                                                                                                             If you are considering a vocation as a permanent deacon, your first step is to attend a Deacon Discernment Day from 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM on Saturday, April 28 at the St. Paul Seminary. Discerners and their wives (if applicable) will learn about the vocation of the permanent deacon and The Saint Paul Seminary Institute for Diaconate Formation. Find more information and registration at saintpaulseminary.org/event/deacon-discernment-day-spring-2025.

Fire on the Hill: Saturday, April 26                                                                                                                                                            On the third Saturday of each month, join for this time of praise and worship. Prayer ministry will also be included for healing and prophetic encouragement. This month: Saturday, April 26 / 6:30 PM / Ss. Joachim and Anne / Shakopee.

Pro-Life Sidewalk Ministry Training Seminar: Monday, April 28                                                                                     Do you have a heart for protecting unborn children? Come and hear about our sidewalk ministry from 7:00 - 9:00 PM on Monday, April 28 at the Bloomington Event Center and see how you can practically save a human life. Learn peaceful, legal methods of saving babies from abortion through prayer, literature, and words of truth in love outside local abortion facilities. Find more information at plam.org/events.

ACCW 92nd Convention - Renewing Your Faith Trusting in God's Direction: Friday, May 2                        Renewing Your Faith Trusting in God's Direction is the theme for this year's Archdiocesan Council of Catholic Women's Annual Convention, from 8:00 AM - 7:30 PM at St. Michael's in St. Michael! Expect top-notch presenters, including Kristen, a mental health advocate, Mass with Archbishop Hebda, locally catered banquet and luncheon, the marketplace to shop, Lay Women Winners and Golden Rose Winners and so much more! Find more information and registration at accwarchspm.org/2025-convention.

2025 Landmark Spark: Friday, May 2                                                                                                                                                  Join this unforgettable evening at Landmark Spark, The Basilica Landmark’s annual fundraiser beginning at 5:00 PM on Friday, May 2 at The Machine Shop in Minneapolis. We come together to celebrate and support the restoration of The Basilica of Saint Mary. This special evening promises to be a blend of elegance, fun, and philanthropy, all dedicated to preserving and enhancing one of Minnesota’s most treasured landmarks. Your presence and support will help ensure that The Basilica shines brightly for generations to come. Find more information and registration at thebasilicalandmark.org/spark.

Retreat: Discovering Your Suffering's Meaning: May 2-5, King’s House, Buffalo                                                Retreatants will hear wisdom, Christian and human, to help them candidly face personal suffering, understand the “secret” that the Cross reveals and prayerfully make a passage from affliction to revival. Retreat director Fr. Robert Rossi, O.S.C., is a member of the Crosier Fathers and Brothers and author of The Crosier Spiritual Exercises. The Order’s spirituality focuses on the Paschal Mystery of Jesus and sees its ministry as touching suffering with hope. We are excited to bring to you this retreat to hear how Christian and human wisdom will help retreatants better understand the “secret” that the Cross reveals and to prayerfully make a passage to revival. Find more information and registration at kingshouse.com/event/men-womens-silent-weekend.

Women's Retreat - It Is Well: Saturday, May 3                                                                                                                    All women are invited to spend a day in community, in the presence of our Lord in the sacraments from 8:00 AM - 3:30 PM on Saturday, May 3 at Holy Name of Jesus in Medina. The day includes speakers Kenna Millea and Fr. Tim Wratkowski, meditation, adoration, reconciliation and plenty of time for small group discussion. Cost is $60. Learn more and register at hnoj.org/womensretreat.

Accompanying Migrants & Immigrants in Our Times: Saturday, May 3

Annual Family Rosary Procession: Sunday, May 4                                                                                                                   As a public witness to our Catholic faith during the month of May dedicated to our Blessed Mother Mary, come with family and friends to the annual Archdiocesan Family Rosary Procession at 2:00 PM (procession line starting at 1:30 PM) on Sunday, May 4. We will process from the State Capitol to the Cathedral of St. Paul. First Communicants are invited to wear their First Communion attire. Those who cannot walk the procession route may go directly to the Cathedral to pray the Rosary with those who are in procession. See details at archspm.org/annual-family-rosary-procession.

Luxury Bingo Annual Fundraiser for Women’s Care Center: Thursday, May 8                                                   Fourth Annual Luxury Bingo - the event of the year! Join us from 6:00 - 8:30 PM on Thursday, May 8 at the Rush Creek Golf Course in Maple Grove for this one-of-a-kind event featuring luxurious high-end prizes, fabulous food and drink and lots of fun with Women's Care Center friends! All proceeds benefit life-saving services of WCC-Anoka, where we provide expectant mothers and babies wrap-around care from pregnancy to kindergarten.

Catholic Women Who Give - Creating and Updating Your Giving Strategy: Thursday, May 15              Connect and learn with other Catholic women from 5:30 - 8:30 PM on Thursday, May 15 at The Minkikahda Club in Minneapolis whose faith informs their giving. Led by an expert in women's giving, we will reflect on our role as stewards of God's blessings, explore who to create a meaningful giving strategy, and share stories and wisdom with other Catholic women. This is not a fundraiser. It is a free, educational event. Find more information at ccf-mn.org/event/catholic-women-who-give-giving-strategy.

Come Away With Me Retreat: Saturday, May 17                                                                                                                          Consider time away – for only a day – to be refreshed as you listen for the whisper of God’s personal love for you. This is an almost-silent retreat where everyone is welcome to be spiritually nurtured through lectio divina, Ignatian meditation, short talks, and Eucharistic adoration, with time for a walk on the beautiful grounds of Dunrovin Retreat Center. God invites you to “come away with Me.” Join us from 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM on Saturday, May 17 at Dunrovin Retreat Center in Marine on St. Croix. Find more information and registration at dunrovin.org/visit/adult-retreats/come-away-with-me-retreats.

Cathedral Young Adult Talent Show: Saturday, May 17                                                                                                        Who's got talent? You've got talent! Cathedral Young Adults wants to celebrate your amazing talents at the 3rd Annual Cathedral Young Adults Talent Show from 7:00 - 9:30 PM on Saturday, May 17 at the Cathedral of St. Paul! We can't wait to see what you got! Find more information and act ideas at archspm.org/cathedral-young-adult-talent-show.

Options for Women East Fundraiser Dinner: Monday, May 19

Life is Good Speaker Series: May 20 & 21                                                                                                                                              Come and listen to Laura Elm (Tuesday, May 20 / 6:00 - 7:30 PM OR Wednesday, May 21 / 8:30 - 10:00 AM) at St. John the Baptist in Excelsior, who formerly worked for an IVF company. After learning the hard truths about IVF, Elm was inspired to extend mercy and compassion to families and their very young ones. Elm founded the organization called Sacred Heart Guardians and Shelter. Light refreshments, Q & A, and table discussion will be included in this free event. Find more information at stjohns-excelsior.org/life-is-good-speaker-series-part-1-a-trisomy-18-story.

Memorial Day Masses at The Catholic Cemeteries: Monday, May 26

Divine Will Retreat: June 6 & 7                                                                                                                                                                  This two-day retreat (June 6 & 7 / Mary, Mother of the Church / Burnsville, MN) will feature Mother Gabrielle Marie Breaux, Mother Superior and Foundress of the Daughters of Divine Will. There is no fee to attend (Free-will donation appreciated). Find more information and registration at divinewillmn.com.

Demontreville Men's Silent Retreat: June 19-22
Come to a place where you can hear the voice of the Lord in the quiet and peaceful setting of Lake DeMontreville.  Join us for a three-day men’s silent retreat at the DeMontreville Jesuit Retreat House in Lake Elmo, Minnesota.  The retreat begins Thursday evening June 19, 2025, and ends Sunday evening June 22, 2025.  Free-will donations are accepted.  For more information call our office at 651-777-1311 or see our website www.demontrevilleretreat.com 

14th Annual Widows Day of Reflection: Saturday, June 21                                                                                                  This day (8:00 AM - 1:00 PM / Saturday, June 21 / Our Lady of Grace / Edina) is for all widows; both recent and longtime widows will experience the Church’s concern for them as they navigate a status in life they did not choose. The day will begin with 8:30 a.m. Mass, followed by inspirational talks by guest speaker and fellow widow, Sandra Davis, Ph.D. New this year: $10 Early Bird Registration Discount. Register online on or before May 31 and use Promo Code EARLY10. Breakfast & lunch included. Find more information and registration at olgparish.org/mp-event-details?id=159.

Pilgrimage to Poland & Lithuania: July 1-12, 2025                                                                                                             Fr. Michael Skluzacek invites you to join him on a pilgrimage to Poland and Lithuania July 1-12, 2025. The theme is Divine Mercy, St. John Paul II, Mary and the saints. We will visit the Shrine of Divine Mercy in Krakow, sites from the life of St. John Paul II, Blessed Jerzy Popieluszko and other saints, the Hill of Crosses and the original painting of Divine Mercy in Lithuania, the Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa, and many more amazing sites. There will be two additional priests attending: Fr. Theodore Campbell and Fr. Julian Druffner. All-inclusive or land-only options available. For more information and to register, please visit Mater Dei Tours at www.materdeitours.com or call 608-440-3700.

Sunset Benefit Cruise: Tuesday, July 22                                                                                                                                          Join Dunrovin Christian Brothers Retreat Center from 5:30 - 9:00 PM via Stillwater River Boats for this fun evening as we sail on the Avalon Stillwater River Boat. Enjoy river breezes, a scrumptious meal, enjoyable company, and some inspiration. Funds from this annual (low-key and truly relaxing) fundraiser bring underserved, low-income Twin Cities students on life-transforming leadership retreat experiences. All early-bird registrations between May 1-June 1 will be put into a drawing for a free two-night weekday stay for two in a Dunrovin cabin! Register now at secure.qgiv.com/for/dcbrc/event/931736.

9-Day Marian Pilgrimage Fatima & The Island of Madeira (with Fr. Austin Barnes & Fr. Mark Moriarty): October 13-21, 2025
Ongoing Opportunities

Come to Pacem in Terris for a Transformative Lenten Retreat
Allow God’s love to heal, nourish and transform your life. Find rest in body, mind and spirit in this hermitage sanctuary. No schedules or daily distractions. Pacem in Terris offers guests an environment of silence to pray and enter into an intimate union with God. Open year-round. Gift certificates available. Reservations: 763-444-6408 or www.paceminterris.org. Visit Pacem in Terris Hermitage Retreat Center at 26399 Highway 47 NW, Isanti, MN 55040.

Online Evening Prayer for Youn Adults: 4th Tuesdays @ 7:00 PM

Capitol Thursdays | Second and fourth Thursdays January-May, 10-11:30 a.m., Minnesota State Capitol, Saint Paul | Join the Minnesota Catholic Conference during the legislative session to learn about policies that uphold life, dignity, and the common good and how you can advocate for them. We’ll also take you to the Capitol for a short tour and to meet with your legislators. Find details and RSVP at MNCatholic.org/events.

First Friday Adoration at the Capitol | First Fridays January-May, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Minnesota State Capitol, Saint Paul | Join us for any amount of time from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. in the Governor’s Dining Room located on the lower level of the Minnesota State Capitol (B420). Note that in April, Adoration will take place on April 14 due to Good Friday the week before. Find further details at MNCatholic.org/events.

Join the Minnesota Catholic Conference Advocacy Network!

Sidewalk Counseling and Prayer
We urgently need more volunteer sidewalk counselors and prayer supporters at all 5 Twin Cities abortion locations so no children are killed without any attempt to save them. Our greatest needs are: Whole Women's in Bloomington (where we've lost a third of our coverage since Bill Kelly's death), Planned Parenthood in Uptown Minneapolis (where nobody is out praying in support of our sidewalk counselors), and Planned Parenthood in St. Paul (where we are missing clients in late afternoons who need to hear about Abortion Pill Reversal). Half of substitute requests go unfilled, and a small handful of volunteers have been shouldering the burden of the rest. To get involved, please contact us at [email protected] or 651-797-6366, or contact Pro-Life Action Ministries at 651-771-1500 for details and training.

Demontreville Jesuit Retreat House
Men are invited to come and recharge with other men from our parishes at a silent retreat at the Demontreville Jesuit Retreat House in Lake Elmo, MN. The cost is a free-will donation. Call Mr. Rick Hill at 612-597-0775 or Mr. Bob Meyer at 651-605-1808 for more information.

Gifted and Belonging
Gifted and Belonging (GAB), a Catholic social group for young adults with and without disabilities, will be meeting the third Sunday of the month from 6:00-8:00 PM. We are being hosted by Matthew's Parish in St. Paul (look for the GAB signs!). Come join other youth adults for a brief time of prayer and then hang out and have fun! At GAB we believe all are gifted and all belong! For more information, view the GAB Flyer or contact Ms. Megan Dunsmore.

Natural Family Planning (NFP)
Classes teach couples the Church-approved methods on how to achieve or postpone pregnancy while embracing the beauty of God’s gift of sexuality. For a complete list of classes offered throughout the Archdiocese, visit archspm.org/family or call 651.291.4489.

Red Cross: Volunteer