Bishop’s Column in the 2026 January/February issue of On Mission
By Bishop David Ricken | On Mission
Hello, my dear brothers and sisters in Christ,
As we welcome the new year, we pause to reflect on God’s blessings and look forward with hope to what lies ahead. I am deeply grateful for the tremendous good being done throughout our diocese.
In anticipation of the Bishop’s Appeal launch on February 7-8, 2026, I wish to share a few ways your generosity continues to bear fruit across the 16 counties of our diocese. The ministries of the diocesan Curia support the work of parishes and schools and collaborate with affiliates and apostolates to bring Christ’s love to others. Each year, this work is possible because you share your gifts with the people of God. Your generosity allows people of all ages to encounter Christ, grow in faith, and serve as missionary disciples leading others to the Kingdom of God.
Missionary Discipleship Formation (Entrust): The Entrust initiative continues to strengthen the culture of missionary discipleship across the diocese. In 2025, renewed efforts brought formation to eight diocesan teams and seven parish teams, engaging 283 participants who are now better equipped to share Christ within their communities. Since its inception, 1,372 individuals have completed Entrust formation — either independently or through the Missionary Leadership Institute — expanding the reach and vitality of our mission.
Diaconate and Lay Leader Formation: Our diocese is blessed with more than 150 deacons, over 100 serving directly in parishes. Deacons bring the Eucharist to the homebound, help parishioners grow closer to Jesus through prayer, and guide young people to discover his presence. Some also lead parishes as pastoral leaders. Your support provides the spiritual formation and training they need to bring Christ’s hope to those they serve.
Catholic Education: More than 500 Catholic school teachers and parish catechists received training and resources to guide 22,500 young people in friendship with Jesus. Through prayer, the sacraments, retreats and learning, countless students have encountered Christ and the hope he brings in our Catholic schools.
Catholic Charities: Through counseling, financial guidance, adoption services and mental health support, Catholic Charities provided compassionate care to more than 10,000 individuals this year. Hope is found in the dedicated outreach of staff who accompany individuals, couples and families through life’s challenges and joys.
Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA): OCIA offers a welcoming pathway for adults to explore the Catholic faith and prepare for the Sacraments of Initiation. Whether beginning anew or returning to complete their initiation, all are invited to encounter Christ’s love. In 2025, 103 new Catholics joined the Church across the diocese, and 116 individuals entered full communion with the Church through their parishes and with the support of several Curia offices.
My friends, your faith and generosity make all this possible. Thank you for your continued support of the Bishop’s Appeal and for walking together as disciples of Jesus Christ.
As we begin this new year, I also recognize our Catholic school administrators, teachers, students and families as they celebrate Catholic Schools Week, January 25-31, 2026. Our Catholic schools foster faith, knowledge and service, guiding students toward a future inspired by a relationship with Jesus Christ. Through academic excellence, faith, and community engagement, they are forming compassionate and faith-filled leaders for a changing world.
So much good is happening across our diocese. My heart is full of gratitude. Truly, we are blessed!