Catholic ministry in Omro holds second annual Battle of the Bands event
By Michael Cooney | For On Mission
Photography by Jim Koepnick
OSHKOSH, WI — Rooted in the Gospel call to serve “the least of these,” Casa Esther Catholic Worker House in Omro has spent more than 15 years offering compassion, advocacy, and hope to neighbors in need. Founded in 2008 by Fr. Joe Mattern, the ministry provides emergency assistance — from grocery and gas cards to rental help, utility support, and car repairs — helping families and individuals across Winnebago County regain stability and self-sufficiency.
The mission of Casa Esther is to lend its voice and effort to the cause of the poor by offering a safe place for people in need to ask for help as they move toward self-sufficiency. The ministry also advocates for issues of social justice and works to preserve a sustainable planet for all.
“Our work stands on the principles of Dorothy Day and Peter Maurin’s Catholic Worker Movement,” Fr. Mattern said. “Our mantra is simple: We say ‘yes’ — and then do what we can!”
Casa Esther works in close collaboration with other local agencies — including St. Vincent de Paul, ADVOCAP, LEAVEN, and the Salvation Army — to keep people securely housed and prevent evictions. The need is great: the ministry currently receives 80 to 90 calls each month from individuals and families seeking help with basic needs such as rent, utilities, and transportation.
In addition to direct aid, Casa Esther’s outreach includes peace-making advocacy, youth gardening projects that supply local food pantries, and environmental initiatives grounded in Catholic social teaching on care for creation. Every encounter begins with a conversation — a listening ear, a helping hand, and the assurance that no one walks alone.
To sustain this vital mission, the community came together on Friday, September 26, 2025, for an evening of joyful generosity at Becket’s Atrium in Oshkosh. The second annual Battle of the Big Bands filled the riverfront venue with energy, laughter, and toe-tapping rhythms as two powerhouse ensembles — the Water City Jazz Orchestra of Oshkosh and Big Band Reunion of Neenah — shared the stage in a friendly musical duel.
Each band took turns performing swing-era favorites, soulful ballads, and jazz standards, delighting a packed crowd. Between sets, guests browsed a silent auction, craft sale, and cash bar, all while learning about Casa Esther’s mission. Wisconsin jazz legends Janet Planet and Erin Krebs joined for featured numbers, earning standing ovations and underscoring the night’s spirit of joy and service.
“The collaboration was a perfect harmony,” said Kurt Shipe, co-founder of the Water City Jazz Orchestra. “We played the music and had fun — and the funds raised went right back into the community.”
The Battle of the Big Bands proved more than a concert — it was a celebration of faith, compassion, and the power of saying yes.
To learn more or lend support, please visit casaesther.org.