By Bishop David Ricken | For On Mission
Just as we welcomed the election of Pope Leo XIV this past year, the Norbertine Community of St. Norbert Abbey will welcome a new abbot on January 15, 2026. Let us pray for the entire process of discernment for the new abbot. On behalf of the faithful, I offer congratulations to the Right Reverend Dane J. Radecki, O. Praem., on his retirement following years of dedicated service throughout the Diocese of Green Bay.
I remember well the abbatial blessing at St. Norbert Abbey in July 2018, which marked the beginning of Abbot Radecki’s seven fruitful years of service. He has displayed exceptional capability as a leader throughout his various ministerial positions. He demonstrated his skill in Catholic education and administration while leading the Green Bay Area Catholic Education (GRACE) School System through several years of growth.
Together, Abbot Radecki and I worked on taking new steps forward in transparency between the diocese and the abbey. He has a gift that, when faced with a challenging issue or circumstance, he can also find the opportunity present. It has been my honor to serve as bishop during his years as abbot and to be a witness to the good work that he has done.
During his ministry in the Church, Abbot Radecki witnessed to all of the Norbertine values, especially zeal for souls. Through his leadership at Prémontré High School, Notre Dame Academy, St. Norbert College and the GRACE School System, he showed his dedication to the people of God. I am so grateful to Abbot Radecki, St. Norbert College and all Norbertines who serve in our parishes and the entire Norbertine community.
He also served the people with a pastor’s heart during his time at St. Agnes Parish, Green Bay; St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Parish, Greenville; and Holy Cross Parish, Green Bay.
During Abbot Radecki’s time serving, the Norbertine Order celebrated its 900th anniversary in 2021. Under his leadership and to celebrate the anniversary, the Norbertines’ Augustine Stewardship Fund awarded generous jubilee grants to nonprofit organizations in Wisconsin and around the world, making a direct impact on many lives.
As Abbot Radecki nears the end of his term and prepares for the next stage of his life and vocational journey, may he benefit from our prayers and support. May our dear Lord and Savior guide, direct and bless you, Abbot Radecki.
(A longer version of this congratulatory article first appeared in the Fall/Winter issue of the Abbey Magazine.)