Local stories, events, and Catholic inspiration in northeast Wisconsin

News Briefs – Jan. 2

Artwork by Kennedy Sunita of Clintonville winner of national honors in the 2024 Missionary Childhood Association Christmas Artwork Contest

NATIONAL ART CONTEST WINNER: Congratulations to Kennedy Sunita of Clintonville who was one of 17 national winners in the 2024 Missionary Childhood Association (MCA) Christmas Artwork Contest. Sunita’s honor marked the eighth consecutive year that a young artist from the Diocese of Green Bay received national recognition in the contest. The winning drawings are on display at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C., throughout the Christmas season. An awards ceremony for the winners was held on Dec. 6 at the National Shrine. A celebratory luncheon was hosted by The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C.

Since its inception in 1933, the contest has received hundreds of submissions annually, showcasing artistic depictions of key Christmas story elements. The Diocese of Green Bay is not coordinating the art contest at the local level this year, but young artists may submit entries directly to the MCA. The contest is open to young Catholics in grades K-8. Entries must be submitted by Jan. 31, 2025. For contest information, visit Artwork Contest Guidelines 24-25.pdf 

SUCCESSFUL SCHOOL FUNDRAISER: The 2024 International Food Fair held on Nov. 2 at Roncalli High School in Manitowoc raised more than $100,000 to support Roncalli Elementary School, Roncalli Middle School and Roncalli High School. The total is $15,000 more than the 2023 event.

This year’s event featured Americana, Asian, German, Greek, Italian, Mexican, Polish and Southern cuisine, along with desserts from around the world. The dishes were prepared by local businesses, food trucks and Roncalli families. More than 600 people attended.

“We would like to express our gratitude to everyone who supported this year’s International Food Fair,” said Candice Giesen, director of advancement for Roncalli Catholic Schools. “The generosity of not only the Roncalli community, but also the Lakeshore community is a testament to the support we have received for this event. Many individuals and area businesses give of their time, talents and financial support to make the International Food Fair possible so that we can create an evening where so many can gather while enjoying delicious food, beverages and, of course, desserts. We look forward to seeing everyone again next year!”

The next International Food Fair is scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025.

NEW ADORATION CHAPEL HOURS: St. Francis of Assisi Parish’s Sacred Heart Adoration Chapel in Manitowoc is now open from 5 a.m. to 12 midnight Mondays through Thursdays. The Diocese of Green Bay would like all perpetual adoration chapels to have two adorers for every open hour. Visitors always welcome, scheduled adorers are always needed. To sign up for an hour, visit Eucharistic Adoration · St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Manitowoc, WI.

MARRIAGE HELP AND HEALING: Married couples who are struggling can find help and healing through the faith-based program Retrouvaille. For confidential information or to register for a weekend, visit Retrouvaille Marriage Help Program For Struggling Couples (helpourmarriage.org). Financial assistance to participate in a weekend is available. For additional questions, email helpourmarriage@outlook.com or call (920) 288-2043.

ADORATION: Adorers are welcome any hour at the Twin City Perpetual Adoration Chapel located on the campus of St. Margaret Mary Parish, 439 Washington Ave., Neenah. Drop in when you can or sign up for a specific time at Eucharistic Adoration · Twin Cities Perpetual Adoration Chapel, St Margaret Mary Campus, 610 Division Street, Neenah, WI (weadorehim.com).

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