‘One Body, Many Parts’: Xavier celebrates first all-system Mass
APPLETON, WI — The St. Francis Xavier Catholic School System marked a historic milestone on May 1, 2026, with its first-ever all-system Mass, bringing together more than 1,000 members of the community. Held in the Torchy Clark Gym at Xavier High School, the celebration united students, faculty, staff, parents, grandparents, and friends in a powerful expression of shared mission and Catholic identity.
Originally planned as an outdoor liturgy in the high school stadium, the event was moved indoors due to cold temperatures. While the change in venue required flexibility, it did little to diminish the spirit of the occasion. While middle and high school students attended, elementary students participated by watching a livestream from their campuses, ensuring that the entire Xavier community could still be part of this meaningful day.
The Mass was celebrated by Bishop David Ricken of the Diocese of Green Bay, joined by the eight pastors from Appleton’s Catholic parishes. Their presence underscored the strong connection between the Xavier schools and the broader Church, highlighting the collaborative effort that supports Catholic education in the Fox Valley.
Taking place during Xavier Days — a week-long celebration of the mission and values of the St. Francis Xavier Catholic School System — the Mass served as a culmination to days filled with community-building celebrations and activities. Throughout the week, students and staff engaged in opportunities to deepen their faith and appreciation for the school system’s commitment to forming the whole person: mind, body, and soul.
“The Mass was a joyful experience,” said System President Terry Tyrrell, reflecting on the significance of the day. “Seeing all of our students and staff together was a true representation of our theme this year, ‘One Body, Many Parts.’”
Hundreds gathered at the Wisconsin State Capitol in support of life on April 25
MADISON, WI — Individuals from across the state heard from Wisconsin-based pro-life speakers who shared their expertise on the importance of protecting life from conception to natural death at the annual March for Life Wisconsin.
Speakers included Bishop James Schuerman from the Archdiocese of Milwaukee, Laura Karlen, Sara Patterson, Alison Schlei, Dr. Beth Anderson, Dr. Michael Kloess, Dr. Tara Sander Lee, and Lucas Vebber.
In his remarks, Bishop Schuerman emphasized that the love of God is the foundation of human dignity: “We are called to create a culture that witnesses to human dignity, and we witness most effectively when we live a life of charity. God’s love for us is the true source of our dignity, our identity, and our worth. God’s love will never change, and nothing can reduce our dignity nor diminish our worth. We are called to build a culture of life. A culture of life is one that proclaims God’s love and plan for each person.”
Next year’s March for Life Wisconsin will be held on Saturday, April 24, 2027, from 2-4 p.m.