Vianney Visit: February 13 - 15 The Vianney Visit (February 13-15 / St. John Vianney College Seminary / St. Paul) is for Catholic men, high school sophomores through college-age man who has not completed undergraduate studies (up to age 24). This event provides a closer look at college seminary life. You will hear testimonies from current seminarians, attend spiritual conferences with SJV priests, pray with the community, and tour the University of St. Thomas. You may also have the option to meet individually with priests on staff or the rector. Find more information and registration at sjvseminary.org/visit-the-seminary.
Upcoming Cursillo Weekends The Cursillo way and its method are endorsed and encouraged by the Catholic Church. A Cursillo weekend is an opportunity to step away from the daily grind and set aside time to nourish your spirit. This encounter with Christ offers an opportunity to expand your prayer life, grow in your faith, and learn about a method to keep your faith journey vibrant within a supportive Christian community. Find more information and registration at tc-cursillo.org/Weekend-General-Info.
Cursillo Men's Weekend 391: February 13-17 / Sts. Peter and Paul / Loretto, MN
Cursillo Women's Weekend 392: February 20-23 / Sts. Peter and Paul / Loretto, MN
Martyrs of Damascus Icon Tour: February 18-27
Saint Joseph Business Guild - On Localism: Thursday, February 20 Join members and visitors to the Saint Joseph Business Guild for dinner, prayer, networking, and a stirring presentation from local Chesterton luminary, Dale Ahlquist, on the topic of localism from 5:00 - 8:45 PM on Thursday, February 20 at Holy Family in St. Louis Park. Find more information and registration at sjbusinessguild.com/events/quarterly-dinner-meeting-on-localism-w-dale-ahlquist.
Eucharistic Miracles of the World: February 20 – 23Center for Catholic Social Thought Spring 2025 Speaker Series: Land and Labor, City and Homestead - Working Towards a Local Economy: Thursdays, February 20-March 13
Jesus’ Pilgrimage to Us (Year 2: The Mass): Holy Hours Around the Archdiocese: Thursday, February 20
Guiding Star Wakota - Grow with Us Gala: Saturday, February 22 Celebrate Guiding Star Wakota's Grow with Us Gala at 5:30 PM on Saturday, February 22 at Inwood Oaks in Oakdale with emcee Matt Birk, inspiring stories, auctions, and honorees Dr. Tim & Midge Hernandez. Cocktail hour at 5:30 PM, dinner at 7 PM. Come strengthen families and protect life. More at guidingstarwakota.org/gala.
Connect with a Cause - Saint Paul's Outreach: Tuesday, February 25 Connect with a Cause is an educational webinar format (12:00 - 12:30 PM on Tuesday, February 25) spotlighting organizations working in one of CCF’s three mission areas: spiritual, educational, and social. These events elevate pressing needs in our community and connect attendees to organizations working to address those needs. In this webinar, learn about Saint Paul's Outreach's (SPO) mission and ministry and how you can support its work. Find more information and registration at ccf-mn.org/events/connect.
Andrew Dinner: Tuesday, February 25
Evening of Reflection with Fr. John Paul Erickson: Wednesday, February 26
Mass of St. Monica Workshop: Wednesday, February 26 Local composer Timothy Roy has composed the "Mass of St. Monica" for the Lenten season. Join St. Mary of the Lake (WBL) musicians from 6:30 - 8:00 PM on Wednesday, February 26 in singing through the setting and get feedback and background information from Roy himself. This is free and open to local music directors/musicians who are interested in exploring a new Mass setting for their parish. We ask for RSVPs to ensure we have enough copies of the music for you. RSVPs and questions can be directed to Jaclyn Schwartz: [email protected]. Find more information at stmarys-wbl.org/event/musician-workshop-with-tim-roy.
Mass of Thanksgiving with Bishop Kevin Kenney: Wednesday, February 26 Join Our Lady of Peace in Minneapolis at 6:15 PM on Wednesday, February 26 for a grace-filled evening as Bishop Kevin Kenney celebrates a special Mass of Thanksgiving. This will also be a "Jubilee Mass" for the Year of Jubilee in the Church. As the former pastor, Bishop Kenney shepherded the community with wisdom and compassion, and now we gather to celebrate his ordination as a Bishop in our Archdiocese. All are welcome to join in this joyful occasion as we unite in worship and thanksgiving. A light reception will follow in the Parish Hall.
WINE - Catholic Women’s Conference: Saturday, March 1 The 10th annual WINE: Women's Conference, "Laboring Joyfully: A Decade in the Vineyard," from 8:00 AM - 3:30 PM on Saturday, March 1 at St. Bartholomew in Wayzata begins at 8:00 AM with Mass and includes inspirational talks, faith-filled entertainment, opportunities for confession, adoration, shopping, and prayer with a prayer team, along with tons of laughter, a fabulous lunch, more shopping, CHOCOLATE, and a fun raffle. An optional "Gathering in the Vineyard," Friday, February 28, will unite women passionate about living out the New Evangelization. (Space is limited). Find more information and registration at catholicvineyard.com/index.php/event/mar-1-2025-wine-conference-wayzata-mn.
Ars Celebrandi and OCIA Workshop: Saturday, March 1 All parish liturgical ministers (lectors, cantors, musicians, communion ministers, and those involved with OCIA) are invited to this workshop from 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM on Saturday, March 1 at St. Therese in Deephaven to better understand what “the art of celebrating” Mass really means, and how various ministers can play a role in bringing the faithful at large deeper into the celebration and sacrifice of the Mass. Register at archspm.org/ars-celebrandi. RSVP by Thursday, February 13.
Known by God Unborn Child Loss Retreat: Saturday, March 1 All mothers grieving the loss of a stillborn or miscarried child are invited to this annual retreat from 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM on Saturday, March 1 at Maternity of Mary in St. Paul, which is focused on healing in grief through the Catholic perspective. Online registration is $30. The retreat includes large group talks, small group sharing, prayer time, lunch, and shared resources. Register here.
Purified and Gender & the Theology of Your Body with Jason Evert: Sunday, March 2 Get answers to life’s tough questions about love, dating, and relationships. This double feature event (6:00 - 9:15 PM / Sunday, March 2 / St. Vincent de Paul / Brooklyn Park) includes Purified and Gender and the Theology of Your Body, Eucharistic Adoration and the Sacrament of Reconciliation. The combination transforms a couple of talks into a retreat for the family, allowing them to encounter the source of purity, healing, and renewal, Jesus Christ. The evening also includes free resources for attendees! Find more information and buy tickets here.
Mind, Body and Spirit Series - Healthcare from a Catholic Perspective -- Women Walking on the Journey Together: Tuesday, March 4 Presenters Clare Joyce, BSN, RN; Hallie Rogers, PCD (DONA), CLC, CLEC; and Alice Schwantes, FCP will walk with women through healthy ovulation (bringing healthy mind and body), pre-pregnancy, pregnancy and postpartum from 7:00 - 8:30 PM on Tuesday, March 4 at St. John Neumann in Eagan. Hormone coaching, what to expect emotionally and physically during the sacred time of pregnancy, birthing classes, the role of a doula, and lactation consulting will be among the topics discussed. Guiding Star Wakota will also have an information table onsite. Find more information at sjn.org/pastoral-care.
Lenten Bible Study: Thursdays Beginning March 6Double Feature with Jason Evert: Sunday, March 9
Lenten Speaker Event -- Jesus - The New Exodus: Monday, March 10
Lenten Retreat - We Are Called to Be Church: Saturday, March 15 Sister Karen Mohan from the Visitation sisters will serve as facilitator for this Lenten Retreat at 10:00 AM on Saturday, March 15 at St. Bridget in Minneapolis. She will speak on the topic, “We Are Called to Be Church.” The retreat is free, and no registration is required. Contact [email protected] with questions.
St. Patrick’s Day Mass: Monday, March 17 The Ancient Order of Hibernians invites everyone to celebrate a Mass in honor of St. Patrick at 9:30 AM on Monday, March 17 at the Cathedral of St. Paul. Leaders in the local Irish community will vest and process, and priests who wish to concelebrate should be in the sacristy by 9 a.m. Refreshments will follow Mass in the Cathedral basement, and of course the St. Patricks’ Day parade begins at noon in downtown St. Paul. Sláinte!
New and Eternal Covenant (Year 2: The Mass): Thursday, March 202025 Archdiocesan Catholic Watchmen Conference - Men of Christ –- Strengthened by His Real Presence: Saturday, March 22
Solemn Closing of Forty Hours: Sunday, March 23 Holy Cross Catholic Church continues a 75+ year tradition of observing a Forty Hours Devotion on the third weekend in Lent. This year's festive Solemn Closing of this Eucharistic celebration (2:30 PM / Sunday, March 23 / Holy Cross Catholic Church / Minneapolis) welcomes Bishop Michael Izen as a special guest, and it will be followed by a festive reception.
Parish Lenten Mission: March 26 & 27 Join in a two-evening Lenten mission (6:00 - 8:00 PM / March 26 & 27 / St. Mary of the Lake / White Bear Lake) led by Susan Windley-Daoust, Ph.D. (founder of the Mark 5:19 Project). Learn how to deepen the fire of discipleship and establish strong, spiritual habits through prayer and the Eucharist. The first evening (March 26) will include Mass at 6 p.m. followed by Mission Talk #1. The second evening (March 27) will continue with Mission Talk #2, followed by adoration, worship music and confession. The Mission will be livestreamed as well. Learn more and register at stmarys-wbl.org/event/parish-lenten-mission. View flyer.
Ham It Up Bingo: Friday, March 28 Come and share a good time with your family and friends at the annual St. Odilia “Ham It Up” Bingo from 6:00 - 9:00 PM on Friday, March 28 at St. Odilia in Shoreview! Play to win a ham, cash, and other prizes. Concessions and game sheet sales begin at 6 p.m., popcorn, nachos, Culver’s custard, drinks etc. available. The first game will begin at 6:30 p.m. A fun night for the entire family! Visit stodilia.org for more information.
Catholic Charismatic Renewal Office Spring Conference: "... in the Upper Room”: Saturday, March 29 Come and reflect on the Upper Room from 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM on Saturday, March 29 at Mary, Mother of the Church in Burnsville. The Upper Room - a place of prayer and miracles, a gathering place where Jesus instituted and gave us the Eucharist. It is here that Jesus invites Thomas to touch his wounds and believe, It is the gathering place of the Disciples as they wondered what was next and awaited the Holy Spirit. And it is from this place they were sent forth emboldened to proclaim the Good News. Presenters for the day are Father Michael Becker and Father Tom Margevicius. Find more information and registration at universe.com/events/-in-the-upper-room-tickets-WSJ0N2.
Mind, Body and Spirit Series - Healthcare from a Catholic Perspective -- Women Walking on the Journey Together: Tuesday, April 1 Presentation: 7:00 - 8:30 PM / Tuesday, April 1 / St. John Neumann / Eagan. Connecting with God, in whose image all are made, helps women recognize the beauty and sacredness of their own bodies. Unhealthy and damaging cultural lies will be addressed as we focus on loving ourselves unconditionally just as we are called to love others. Presenters Melissa Johnson, LMFT and Ashley Sandholm, MS, RDN will also explore the world of eating disorders: What are they? How can you recognize them? And how to move forward. Find more information at sjn.org/pastoral-care.
Spring Wine Social: Saturday, April 5 You're invited to St. Lawrence Newman Center's Spring Wine Social from 5:00 - 9:00 PM on Saturday, April 5 at Our Lady of Grace in Edina! Enjoy fine wine, food, and community while supporting University of Minnesota students to become lifelong disciples of Christ in His church. Special guests include Auxiliary Bishop Kevin Kenney and keynote speaker Father Mike Schmitz. Learn more at gophercatholic.org/spring-wine-social.
Lenten Retreat-Pilgrims of Hope: April 6-9 This Lenten retreat (April 6-9 at St. Patrick's in Edina) features Deacon Art Miller, as he reflects on Pilgrims of Hope, Pope Francis’ theme for Jubilee 2025. Through powerful storytelling and deep spiritual insight, Deacon Art will be inviting us to embrace our call as modern-day pilgrims. This retreat offers a sacred time to pause, reflect and prepare our hearts for Easter as we walk together in the light of Christ’s promise. The evening talks will be repeated the following morning for a total of three talks. See stpatrick-edina.org/lentenretreat for dates and times.
Pro-Life Across America Culture of Love Celebration: Thursday, April 10 Details: Banquets of MN in Fridley / Social 5:30 PM / Dinner 6:30 PM / Dr. Monique Ruberu, MD guest speaker / Tickets: $75 / RSVP: prolifeacrossamerica.org/love.
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.
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.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