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Celebrate Catholic Schools Week 2021
Jan. 31-Feb. 6
See the Observer's annual salute to Catholic Schools (pages 6-15)
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By Amanda Hudson, News Editor
February 25, 2021
ROCKFORD—As with most all events in the diocese this past year, the 2021 Rite of Election on Feb. 20 was smaller than usual and deeply significant.
Usually, both catechumens (those to receive the sacrament of baptism as well as sacraments of confirm... Read More
February 25, 2021
DIOCESE—Catechumens from around the diocese who were accepted into the Church at the Rite of Election Feb. 20 at the Cathedral of St. Peter are:
Algonquin
St. Margaret Mary: Dennise M. Garcia, Wesley Michael Harrison<... Read More
February 25, 2021
Just in time for the Year of St. Joseph, St. John Neumann Parish in St. Charles added a grotto dedicated to the saint.
It was built in November 2020 in the southwest corner of the church parking lot.
Does your pa... Read More
February 25, 2021
Principal Brenna O’Hearn and teachers from St. Margaret Mary School in Algonquin received their shots and cards after receiving their first doses of COVID-19 vaccines at Huntley High School recently.
Also baring their arms are Michael Kagan, superintendent, and Vito DiFrisco, ... Read More
Parental Notification Being Challenged in Illinois
Quick action needed to reach state legislators
February 25, 2021
DIOCESE—The Catholic Conference of Illinois has issued an action alert regarding HB1797, which seeks to repeal Illinois’ Parental Notification of Abortion Act.
A message from the Diocesan Life and Family Evangelization Office says the bill sho... Read More
February 25, 2021
AURORA—Free drive-through COVID-19 testing began Feb. 19 at the Fox Valley Habitat for Humanity ReStore parking lot, 2302 W. Indian Trail Road in Aurora.
Contactless testing is offered from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Sunday. No appoi... Read More
Don’t Get Stuck In the Weeds
Lent Reflection
by Father Robert Blood, Parochial vicar, Holy Family, Rockford
February 25, 2021
On a lot of cooking competition shows they use the phrase “getting stuck in the weeds.” They have an ultimate plan for the dish they’re making, but in the midst of making it the little distractions can overwhelm.
Sometim... Read More
By Amanda Hudson, News Editor
February 18, 2021
WOODSTOCK—St. Mary Church welcomed parishioners back into the church the weekend of Feb. 6-7 after extensive renovations were completed right on schedule.
The project began Dec. 26 and has used funds dedicated solely to, and available for, church be... Read More
February 18, 2021
PALATINE—Father Anthony Labedis, OFM Conv., died Monday, Feb. 8, 2021, at St. Joseph’s Home for the Elderly in Palatine. He was 87.
Born in Kewanee on May 29, 1933, he was the eldest of Anthony and Stacy Labedis’ eight children. Read More
February 18, 2021
DIOCESE—As of Feb. 9, Kane and McHenry counties join the rest of the Diocese of Rockford in Phase 4.
Bishop David Malloy sent updated instructions to priests in the parishes in both counties last week.
The two counties cover all of th... Read More
Don’t Wait for a Perfect Ash Cross
First week of Lent
February 18, 2021
by Father Keith Romke, Pastor, St. Patrick Parish, Dixon
I f you’re anything like me throughout the year you come up with ideas of things that would be great to do for Lent, and you believe that this year will finally be the year tha... Read More
It’s in the Bag
Ombudsmen are reaching out to nursing home residents in a new way
By Amanda Hudson, News Editor
February 11, 2021
ROCKFORD—At some point close to Valentine’s Day, the Long Term Care Ombudsman program of Rockford Diocese Catholic Charities will be delivering special gift bags for residents at the nursing homes in nine of the 11 counties in the diocese — Jo Daviess, Stephenson, Winnebago... Read More
February 11, 2021
The 2021 Scout Sunday gathering at the Cathedral of St. Peter in Rockford could not be held due to COVID-19 restrictions.
But Bishop David Malloy recorded a greeting for those who earned awards and were honored. Listen at https://youtu.be... Read More
February 11, 2021
ROCKFORD—Father Karl P. Ganss died Monday, Feb. 1, 2021, at his home in Rockford.
Father Ganss was born on April 19, 1942, in Philadelphia, Penn., to Karl and Philom... Read More
By Penny Wiegert, Editor
February 11, 2021
DIOCESE—For safety’s sake, Ash Wednesday, Feb. 17, this year will look and even sound a bit different. But the public witness and meaning of entering into the holy penitential season of Lent remains the same.
In an effort to continue safety pr... Read More
Make Your Way into the Desert
Lent Reflection
by Father Kyle Manno
February 11, 2021
by Father Kyle Manno
Pastor, Christ the Teacher University Parish, DeKalb
Vocations Director
In just a few days, Ash Wednesday will be upon us and Lent, the period of 40 days that precedes the celebration of Easter, ... Read More
February 11, 2021
AURORA
Feb. 17
Ash Wednesday: St. Rita of Cascia Parish Masses — English 7:30 a.m. and 6 p.m.; school, 9 a.m; Spanish, 12 noon and 7:30 p.m.; bilingual, 4 p.m.
Feb. 19
By Amanda Hudson, News Editor
February 4, 2021
DIOCESE—The coronavirus has affected businesses of many kinds, and some of the impacts have fallen on the funeral industry say Catholic owners of funeral homes in the diocese and by staff of the Catholic Cemeteries Office.
Two employees at the Catho... Read More
Small Parish has a Big Heart
Apple River St. Joseph
By Amanda Hudson, News Editor
February 4, 2021
APPLE RIVER—Apple River is a small community located on the border of Wisconsin in the northeastern part of Jo Daviess County, in the Freeport Deanery.
With 60 households, St. Joseph Parish in Apple River is “small, but mighty,” says Tam... Read More
By Amanda Hudson, News Editor
February 4, 2021
St. Joseph Parish in Apple River began after early Catholics in the area had been attended by priests from Galena and Freeport.
One missionary, Father Peter Corcoran, supervised the building of a church in Apple River in 1863. The first resident pas... Read More
By Sharon Boehlefeld, Features Editor
February 4, 2021
Several years ago, a book club I belonged to opted to read a collection of the records of Lewis and Clark from their expedition to explore the newly aquired Louisiana Territory.
I must admit, I didn’t get the book finished by our discussion, but I w... Read More
By Amanda Hudson, News Editor
January 28, 2021
HUNTLEY—Catholics from several locations came together Jan. 22 for a pro-life Mass celebrated by Bishop David Malloy and a handful of priests from the diocese.
St. Mary Church can welcome more than 300 people and still meet pandemic guidelines for s... Read More
By Amanda Hudson, News Editor
January 28, 2021
DIOCESE—In normal years, Catholic Charities in the Rockford Diocese received donated gifts and food from parishes, schools and other organizations to give to people in need at the holidays. In-person parties and other gatherings for recipients were part of the happy celebrations.
... Read MoreJanuary 28, 2021
DIOCESAN—With some reduction in the rate of spread of COVID-19 throughout Illinois, gathering restrictions are loosening.
On Jan. 19, Bishop David Malloy sent letters to the priests of the diocese outlining the newest diocesan adaptations to the ong... Read More
By Amanda Hudson, News Editor
January 28, 2021
ROCKFORD—The first Rockford Walk for Life, held the morning of Jan. 23 in western downtown, felt at times like the Chicago March for Life.
Yes, Rockford’s gathering square was much more open and its streets less canyon-like when compared to th... Read More
January 28, 2021
ROCHELLE—A donation in excess of $40,000 from the Knights of Columbus helped the Abigail Women’s Center in Mendota buy a new 3D/4D ultrasound machine.
Knights of Columbus councils within the Andrew D. Mitchell Assembly from Rochelle, Somonauk,... Read More
January 28, 2021
ROCKFORD—The Northern Illinois Red Ribbon Program at Boylan Central Catholic High School is raising money to help the Poor Clares in Rockford.
Any amount is welcome, but donors of $20 or more will receive a Poor Clares facemask featuring a cross and... Read More
January 28, 2021
DIOCESE—As the Catholic Hispanic population grows in the Rockford Diocese, so do the number of Spanish-speakers helping to serve them.
Based on 2019 Census data it is estimated that “40.7% of the Catholic faithful in the diocese are Hispanic,&... Read More
Awaken Retreat Faces are Familar
12 diocesan priests answer the call to new online retreat program
By Amanda Hudson, News Editor
January 21, 2021
CRYSTAL LAKE—What do Msgr. Daniel Hermes and Fathers Jeremy Trowbridge, Keith Romke, Sean Grismer, Robert Blood, John McNamara, John Kladar, Kyle Manno, Ervin Pio Caliente, Ryan Browning, Jared Twenty, and Jonathan Bakkelund have in common?
These 12... Read More
January 21, 2021
STERLING—Newman Central Catholic High School here will add four newcomers to its alumni Hall of Fame during Catholic Schools Week this year.
The four new Hall of Famers will be announced — one a day — to Newman students next week.
... Read MoreJanuary 21, 2021
There are seven parishes in the Rockford Diocese dedicated to the foster father of Jesus.
During this Year of St. Joseph, The Observer will highlight each of the parishes.
The first alpabetically by town — St. Jo... Read More
By Penny Wiegert, Editor
January 21, 2021
DIOCESE—Catholic schools in the Diocese of Rockford, like all other organizations and individuals, were challenged by the ongoing global pandemic.
Everyone from the students to the administration had to find new routines and adapt to new ways of giv... Read More
January 21, 2021
March 12, 2020 -- Illinois closes schools -- Governor J. Pritzker closes Illinois elementary and high schools in response to the growing COVID-19 ... Read More
Life Mass to be Live and Virtual
Together strong: Pro-life beliefs unite March for Life participants despite COVID restrictions
By Penny Wiegert, Editor
January 14, 2021
HUNTLEY—Traditionally at this time of year, the diocese along with a variety of schools and parishes would be preparing for a pilgrimage to the annual March for Life in Washington, Jan. 27-29.
But like most other large gatherings, the annual March i... Read More
National Appeal Weekend Jan. 16-17
First Combined Appeal Helps Church in U.S.
By Amanda Hudson, News Editor
January 14, 2021
DIOCESE—The first combined collection in 2021 is coming this weekend to diocesan parishes, Jan. 16-17.
The National Appeal is the first of three appeals taken up during the year, designed to reduce the frequency of special collections in parishes by... Read More
January 14, 2021
ROCKFORD—Deacon Frank Licari Zammuto, 60, of Rockford died suddenly at OSF St. Anthony Medical Center on Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2021.
He was born Sept. 20, 1960, in Rockford, to Peter J. and Carmella (Licari) Zammuto. Deacon Zammuto graduated from... Read More
January 14, 2021
I join wholeheartedly the statement issued by Archbishop Jose Gomez, President of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops denouncing the recent violence at the U.S. Capitol building.
For months, and years in some cases, our pol... Read More
January 14, 2021
Each year, the award winners of the Bishop O’Neill Scholarship Awards are announced and usually presented to winners on or near the Dec. 14 birthday of the seventh Bishop of Rockford Arthur J. O’Neill.
This year, COVID prevented the annual, in... Read More
January 7, 2021
As we conclude 2020 and look forward to the New Year, I take this moment to offer my prayers for all the faithful, friends and all those present in the Diocese of Rockford.
Much has already been said about the sadness and challenges to life, livelihood an... Read More
Parishes Help Inspire Heroes
Group effort supplies stones for inspiration
By Amanda Hudson, News Editor
January 7, 2021
They seem like small things — little, polished stones with words carved into them — but they brought some happiness and hope to nurses and other front line workers caring for COVID patients and others.
Church of Holy Apostles in McHenry, St. M... Read More
January 7, 2021
ROCKFORD—Ascension Living Cor Mariae Village, an assisted living center in Rockford, will close on Feb. 28, according to the center.
Molly Gaus, vice president Marketing and Communication, Ascension Living, said in an email, “Ascension Living ... Read More
By Amanda Hudson, News Editor
January 7, 2021
St. Joseph seems to be tailor-made to watch over this new year of 2021.
He is, after all, the patron saint of workers — so many of whom have suffered from unemployment or under-employment since last March.
And Jo... Read More
By Al Benson, For The Observer
January 7, 2021
AURORA—Aurora’s Dominican Literacy Center greatly exceeded its 2020 GivingTuesday fundraising goal.
Sister Kathleen Ryan, center founder and executive director, said, “Our goal was $10,000 and we received $10,300.
... Read More
December 24, 2020
WASHINGTON, D.C. (CNS) —Marking the 150th anniversary of St. Joseph being declared patron of the universal Church, Pope Francis proclaimed a yearlong celebration dedicated to the foster father of Jesus.
In a Dec. 8 apostolic letter, &ldq... Read More
‘Volunteers are waiting ...’
COVID Inspires a Success for the Newman Center
By Amanda Hudson, News Editor
December 24, 2020
It only enhanced the experience when the pastor almost set his hair on fire.
Accidentally, of course.
When COVID-19 derailed its 60th annual fundraising dinner, the Newman Catholic Student Center in DeKalb settled on a... Read More
Father Keith Romke, St. Patrick, Dixon, pastor
December 24, 2020
C hristmas has arrived, and hopefully you’re experiencing the joy of this season!
From a worldly standpoint I’ll say that we’ve made it through the crazy and busy lead-up to this celebration. (It’s great but let’... Read More
December 24, 2020
Gifts provided by Holy Family parishioners in Rockford – through its annual Giving Tree project – were collected by Catholic Charities staff on Monday, Dec. 14.
Normally, presents purchased for members of refugee families are distributed at th... Read More
Keeping Holy The Sabbath
Church of Holy Apostles Builds Community with Virtual Tools
By Amanda Hudson, News Editor
December 17, 2020
MCHENRY—Long before the coronavirus swept in, Church of Holy Apostles, here, was known for its video and online ministries.
You might say they were ahead of the curve before there was much of a curve, building what was essentially a TV studio ... Read More
By Margarita Mendoza, El Observador Editor
December 17, 2020
DIOCESE—The celebrations of sacraments continue, churches are open and adapting to the COVID-19 pandemic circumstances by practicing biosecurity and physical distancing since May 25 when the gradual reopening of the parishes in the Diocese of Rockford began.
December 17, 2020
ROCKFORD— Msgr. Thomas C. Brady, P.A., died Dec. 9, 2020, at Presence Cor Mariae Center, Rockford, where he was a resident.
Msgr. Brady was born Oct. 4, 1927, in Harvard, to Joseph and Mary Nolan Brady.
... Read More
December 17, 2020
LAKEWOOD—Deacon Paul M. Oswald of Lakewood died Dec. 3, 2020.
He was born Dec. 25, 1954, in El Paso, Texas, to Paul and Catherine Oswald.
He was ordained to the permanant deaconate for the Rockf... Read More
December 17, 2020
ROCKFORD—Christmas Eve Mass celebrated by Bishop David Malloy will be available on television thanks to Rockford NBC affiliate WREX Channel 13.
State and local restrictions on in-person gatherings and the fear of contracting COVID-19 virus hav... Read More
By Bishop David J. Malloy, Dec. 12, 2020
December 17, 2020
A woman, clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet — bearing a crown of stars. That woman given that special glory gave birth to a son, a male child, destined to rule all the nations with an iron rod. Her child was caught up to God and His throne. The woman h... Read More
With Mary We Rejoice as Christ Nears
Advent Reflections
Father Kenneth Anderson, pastor, St. Thomas Aquinas, Freeport
December 17, 2020
I n parishes just about every place, before the Mass, there is a faithful group of men and women that prays the rosary. The rhythm of this prayer draws the pray-ers and those in their midst into the story of God’s love and faithfulness.
... Read More
By Al Benson, For The Observer
December 17, 2020
AURORA—The 69th annual Lehnertz Avenue drive-through Christmas story display on Aurora’s far east side opened at 6 p.m. Dec. 13 when Father Matthew McMorrow, pastor of St. Joseph Parish, blessed a manger scene, the display’s centerpiece.
... Read More
Charities Receives Big Gift
United Way in Rockford provides grant money in time to help for Christmas
December 10, 2020
ROCKFORD—During the continuing pandemic, Catholic Charities has received significant grants from the Emerging Needs Fund of the United Way of Rock River Valley.
St. Elizabeth Catholic Community Center here was awarded an early grant of $10,000... Read More
By Penny Wiegert, Editor
December 10, 2020
DIOCESE—Patrick Winn is retiring after nine years of directing the mission and activities of the 10 programs under the umbrella of Catholic Charities in the Diocese of Rockford.
While it is always difficult to see a good person go, Winn is han... Read More
Advent: Rejoice and Act for God
Advent Reflection
Father Timothy Mulcahey, Our Lady of Good Counsel, Aurora, pastor
December 10, 2020
A dvent means that Christ is arriving. Historically this term has referred both to His birth as well as His future second coming. But to us, it often means nothing more than the countdown to the Christmas holidays.
But if we really want to li... Read More
December 10, 2020
MCHENRY—St. Patrick Parish in McHenry is better prepared for emergencies thanks to a donation from Knights of Columbus Council 16446.
Council representatives recently presented an automated electronic defibrillator (AED) to pastor, Father Godwin Asu... Read More
January Walk For Life Planned
First Life Walk set for Rockford area
By Amanda Hudson, News Editor
December 3, 2020
ROCKFORD—It’s a first: a local Walk for Life to mark the anniversary of the Roe v. Wade decision to legalize abortion in the United States.
Although the March for Life in Washington and the March for Life in Chicago are terrific events, with the cor... Read More
December 3, 2020
Deacon Robert J. Real
ELGIN—Deacon Robert Joseph Real, 93, died Nov. 19, 2020.
He was born on March 24, 1927 to Emma (Connolly) Real and Theron J. Real.
At the age of 22 he married Lois J. Beckman, a... Read More
By Penny Wiegert, Editor
December 3, 2020
For centuries, clergymen and members of monastic orders have worked with plants that have been grown and hybridized when religious communities were often remote or cloistered requiring self-reliance and by-products from plants.
The cycle of the seasons goes hand in hand with liturgi... Read More
Father Ryan Browning, St. Thomas More, Elgin, pastor
December 3, 2020
What is our greatest threat personally and collectively? Looking around, we may identify many dangers. However, the Second Sunday of Advent points us directly to the source and cause of it all: sin.
Sin, from the beginning, is the root of dysfunction in our lives and our world. St. ... Read More
By Sharon Boehlefeld, Features Editor
December 3, 2020
Susan Furlong, a mystery writer from the Peoria Diocese, has donated an autographed copy of “Splintered Silence” to give to a reader of The Observer.
The book, as Tom Dermody says in his review (see page 7) isn’t likely to be on a Catholic bookstore shelf. But it w... Read More
By Amanda Hudson, News Editor
December 3, 2020
ROCKFORD—St. Bridget parishioner Brian DeNolf came to the Nov. 21 Mass and blessing of the new Our Lady of Guadalupe prayer garden dressed in a jacket featuring the Blessed Mother under that title.
“It’s very inspired for this community to have somethi... Read More
COVID Changes Ongoing
Parishes and schools adapt to keep people as safe as possible
November 26, 2020
DIOCESE—As COVID-19 cases continue to be identified throughout Illinois, including in the 11 counties of the Rockford Diocese, parishes and schools have nimbly adapted to keep people healthy while continuing to provide worship and education opportunities.
Read More
November 26, 2020
WAYNE—Father Joseph L. Lutz died on Monday, Nov. 16, 2020, while under hospice care at his son’s home here. He was 92.
Father was born on Jan. 14, 1928 in Elmira, N.Y., the son of Louis J. and Marion B. (Mathew) Lutz.
Read More
November 26, 2020
ROCKFORD—Bishop David Malloy appointed four new members to Boylan Central Central Catholic High School’s Board of Consultors.
They are Joseph R. Altenhoff, Patrick Bachrodt, Thomas Giovingo, and Father Johnson Lopez.
... Read More
Addition Blessed
At Holy Family
By Amanda Hudson, News Editor
November 26, 2020
ROCKFORD—Holy Family pastor, Father Phillip Kaim, grinned as he announced during one of his regular building updates at Holy Family Parish earlier this fall that the parish building campaign was ahead of schedule.
In the military &ldquo... Read More
By Amanda Hudson, News Editor
November 26, 2020
ROCKFORD—About three years ago, parishioners and Father Phillip Kaim began strategic planning work to meet four identified needs: school, church, parking lots and a larger and more welcoming fellowship hall.
A “silent phase&... Read More
Some Schools Already Online
Increased COVID-19 cases cause Catholic schools to move to e-learning for holiday season
By Penny Wiegert, Editor
November 19, 2020
DIOCESE—Just after the Rockford Diocese Department of Educational Services announced an e-learning schedule to help circumvent the spread of the coronavirus after the Christmas holiday, schools began reporting increased cases of the virus.
Principal... Read More
November 19, 2020
DIOCESE—Couples honored at the annual Silver and Gold Mass for the Rockford Diocese on Nov. 15 collectively marked more than 9,000 years of marriage.
Bishop David Malloy, who celebrated a virtual Mass from his chapel, congratulated the couples... Read More
By Penny Wiegert, Editor
November 19, 2020
DIOCESE—Members of the Diocesan Pastoral Council met virtually for their regular meeting Nov. 7.
The group met online for the second time because of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, which also topped the agenda for the group.
&... Read More
November 19, 2020
DIOCESE—”Empower Illinois ... let me know that we are $50,000 short of exceeding our fundraising from last year for the Invest In Kids Scholarship program,” said Elizabeth Heitkamp on Nov. 17. “We need to have donations committed by Nov. 30 to count for and get used f... Read More
November 12, 2020
ROCKFORD—On a warm, sunny autumn day, Nov. 4, the focal piece of a new prayer garden on the grounds of the Cathedral of St. Peter here moved into her new home. A bronze sculpture of Our Lady of Guadalupe was placed atop a stone pedestal within a circular garden.
... Read More
Diocese Updates COVID Guidelines
Rockford Diocese Adopts Holiday Schedule for Schools, Cancels Basketball
By Penny Wiegert, Editor
November 12, 2020
DIOCESE—All Catholic elementary and high schools in the Diocese of Rockford will follow a special holiday and remote learning schedule already announced in the Diocese of Peoria and the Archdiocese of Chicago.
According to the Rockford Diocesan Offi... Read More
November 12, 2020
STERLING—Newman Central Catholic High School has scheduled in-person, 30-minute tours for prospective students and their parents on Nov. 19, 21, Dec. 5 and 12.
Advance registration is required and masks must be worn.
Read More
By Cindy Wooden, Catholic News Service
November 12, 2020
VATICAN CITY—Although dogged for years by rumors of sexual impropriety, Theodore E. McCarrick was able to rise up the Catholic hierarchical structure based on personal contacts, protestations of his innocence and a lack of Church officials reporting and investigating accusations, accor... Read More
November 12, 2020
From: Most Reverend José H. Gomez, Archbishop of Los Angeles and President, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops
Nov. 10, 2020
I welcome the report of the Holy See’s investigation into ... Read More
By Penny Wiegert, Editor
November 5, 2020
ROCKORD—Bishop David Malloy has filmed a series of videos to reach out to diocesan Catholics.
The first video is an update and thank you to diocesan Catholics along with many others for the sacrifices they have made both physically and spiritu... Read More
November 5, 2020
DEKALB—Showing that religion and science do go together in the Catholic faith, The Observer won awards in both categories at a virtual awards banquet for the Northern Illinois Newspaper Association (NINA) Oct. 29.
The staff took first place in the r... Read More
November 5, 2020
AURORA—Rosary High School unveiled its new STEM wing Oct. 24 with a ribbon cutting by school and city officials.
Lindsay Cochrane, program director at the Dunham Fund, attended the ribbon cutting.
Representing Au... Read More
November 5, 2020
PEORIA—OSF HealthCare System is mailing letters to its patients advising them of a data security incident at one of its vendors, Blackbaud, Inc. The company provides cloud-based and data solution services related to OSF’s fundraising activities.
... Read More
By Penny Wiegert, Editor
November 5, 2020
ROCKFORD—The list of priests accused of sexual abuse with minors has been updated on the Diocese of Rockford website.
The list is titled “Religious order pries... Read More
By Amanda Hudson, News Editor
October 22, 2020
ROCKFORD—Patrick Winn, director of the diocesan Department of Social Services, which includes Catholic Charities, will retire this fall.
Winn has directed the department since September 2011. He came to the position with a background in legal and hu... Read More
By Penny Wiegert, Editor
October 15, 2020
DIOCESE—Bishop David Malloy announced in a letter to all priests Oct. 8 a list of changes to the “Back in His Presence” guidelines issued in June of this year. The guidelines are part of the ongoing efforts to help mitigate the spread of the COVID-19 virus among the ... Read More
By Margarita Mendoza, El Observador Editor
October 15, 2020
CHICAGO—As the processing of conclusions from the 2018 national V Encuentro continues around the nation, a regional session, called an in service, was held Sept. 26 online.
About 100 people from Region 7, which includes Illinois, Indiana and Wiscons... Read More
Holy Family Remembers Unborn
Memorial blessed during Prolife Month
October 15, 2020
ROCKFORD—A recently installed prolife memorial at Holy Family Parish here was blessed after the 8:45 a.m. Mass on Oct. 9.
The statue is modeled after a painting created around 1580 by the Italian painter Scipione Pulzone whose work was titled ... Read More
By Amanda Hudson, News Editor
October 15, 2020
DIOCESE—It is safe to say that in spite of COVID-19 restrictions, priestly discernment continues.
God, after all, doesn’t take vacations and continues to gently call the men he hopes will say “yes” to His dream for them as priests.... Read More
When They Want You, Do You Want Them?
How to decide once you’ve been accepted
By Amanda Hudson, News Editor
October 15, 2020
As you apply and prepare for college, the first main concern will be: Will I get in anywhere?
Should you be blessed to receive offers of admission from a number of colleges, then how do you choose? Your considerations might include:
&... Read More
By Amanda Hudson, News Editor
October 8, 2020
NORTH AURORA—Blessed Sacrament Parish celebrated its 50th anniversary with an anniversary Mass on Oct. 4, attended by 44 founding families, parish staff, finance and parish council members, and parish ministry leaders.
That 10:30 a.m. Mass was... Read More
October 8, 2020
Blessed Sacrament Parish — the only parish in the Rockford Diocese under that title — was dedicated in North Aurora by Bishop Arthur J. O’Neill on Oct. 18, 1975.
The parish actually began five years earlier, on Oct. 4, 1970, with Father ... Read More
By Junno Arocho Esteves, Catholic News Service
October 8, 2020
VATICAN CITY—After a tumultuous year due to the coronavirus pandemic, eight U.S. candidates for the priesthood were ordained deacons at the Vatican.
Among them was Rockford Diocesan seminarian James Linkenheld.
D... Read More
October 8, 2020
ADRIAN, Mich.—Two Adrian Dominicans who served in the Diocese of Rockford are among sisters who celebrate jubilees this year.
Sister Alma Marie Messing, OP, 75 years
Sister Alma Marie Messing, OP... Read More
By Amanda Hudson, News Editor
October 1, 2020
ROCKFORD—“We are here for your ordination in the midst of the COVID outbreak,” said Bishop David Malloy the morning of Sept. 26 at the Cathedral of St. Peter as 13 men, accompanied by a few family members, gathered to be ordained as permanent deacons for the Diocese of Rock... Read More
Annual Mission Appeal Final Request for the Year
Oct. 17-18 Mission Appeal Weekend
By Amanda Hudson, News Editor
October 1, 2020
DIOCESE—“Missionaries are still on the move, still serving, but perhaps in new ways,” says Bishop David Malloy in his letter announcing the annual diocesan Mission Appeal.
Read More
By Amanda Hudson, News Editor
October 1, 2020
Close to 30 masked men got off a bus at the Pontifical North American College Aug. 20, beginning a new student orientation that kept as many traditions as possible in a 14-day quarantine.
Among them was Diocese of Rockford seminarian Jeffrey Filipski who ... Read More
‘From Crisis to Calling’
Ministry Day 2020 to Be Different in More Ways Than One
By Penny Wiegert, Editor
September 24, 2020
DIOCESAN—Like so many things this year, Ministry Day will take on a different look in that it will not be held in person. But being held virtually isn’t the only thing that will be different this year.
Ministry Day will be themed “From C... Read More
September 24, 2020
On Sept. 12, a parishioner of St. Bridget in Loves Park placed flowers at a memorial for aborted babies in Calvary Cemetery, west of Rockford.
The parish joined pro-life Americans throughout the country for the eighth annual National Day of Remembrance fo... Read More
September 24, 2020
WASHINGTON—Father Michael Fuller, a priest of the diocese of Rockford, has been nominated as a candidate for general secretary of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB).
Father Fuller currently serves as the executive director of the ... Read More
By Penny Wiegert, Editor
September 24, 2020
DIOCESE—Prompted by Hurricane Laura and the West Coast wildfires Bishop David Malloy, on behalf of the Diocese of Rockford, sent an emergency contribution for the humanitarian, long-term recovery, and Church needs arising from these natural disasters in the United States. ... Read More
By Amanda Hudson, News Editor
September 24, 2020
Deacon David Zarembski’s wife, Elizabeth, is having a harder than usual time with communication during the pandemic.
Hard of hearing, she reads lips and, of course, store clerks and restaurant workers are all wearing masks. When she asks them to rem... Read More
By Amanda Hudson, News Editor
September 3, 2020
ROCKFORD—Kristina Riedelsperger, administrative assistant for Ministry Formation, says that the department created a Virtual Orientation Day presentation, “since we have too many people to meet the 50-or-less requirement for an in person meeting.”
... Read More
Catholics Coping with COVID Not Just a Problem in the U.S
Reflections from ‘across the pond’ on keeping the faith afloat in hazardous times
By Louise Brass, Observer Correspondent
September 3, 2020
The Ark of Peter, as the Roman Catholic Church is often called, has had a bumpy sojourn through history in many areas of the world, including in England, in bygone centuries.
But the closing of churches this year for health and safety during this la... Read More
August 6, 2020
Editor’s note: Patrick Winn, director of Catholic Charities, compiled this information for The Observer.
ROCKFORD—Anyone can be at risk of being taken advantage of by a scam and scammers are now using fears driven by the COVID-19 pand... Read More
A Moveable Feast Moving Across Diocese in 2021
2020 gathering planned for Aurora falls victim to coronavirus
By Amanda Hudson, News Editor
July 23, 2020
AURORA—The successful Catholic Charities’ fundraiser last year in Rockford will move to Aurora in the fall of 2021.
A Moveable Feast fundraising event originally was planned to be a 2020 event in this city located in the southeast corner of th... Read More
July 16, 2020
As contributions come in for the Rockford Diocesan Annual Appeal, many include prayer intentions.
The intentions are included in the petitions at Masses offered in the chapel at... Read More
Diocese, State Plan to Resume Mass
Diocese of Rockford part of statewide measures to return to safe worship
May 21, 2020
ROCKFORD—In a letter written May 13 to the priests and the Catholic faithful, Bishop David Malloy announced the plan to bring the public back to Mass in church.
Bishop Malloy, along with the bishops of the Chicago Province, developed a multi-p... Read More
In the Habit
Habits ‘Should Mark Us’
By Amanda Hudson, News Editor
September 12, 2019
Brother Theodore Haggerty, OSB, is one of the younger monks at Marmion Abbey, scheduled to be ordained to the priesthood next year.
He and Benedictine Father Joel Rippinger talk about the “great witness value” of their habits.
&... Read More
August 15, 2019
A retreat is an intentional time away from your daily life.
It can make room for you to experience a new awareness of the presence of God. For generations, people have gone on spiritual retreats to encounter God and experience spiritual renewal.
August 15, 2019
Whether done at home or elsewhere, personal retreats can be helpful and spiritually refreshing.
Get away from your usual surroundings if possible. A change of scene most often results in a change of mind-set. Do this even if you live alone. For a sh... Read More
By Penny Wiegert, Editor
August 8, 2019
ROCKFORD—The paint is dry, the floors and windows are squeaky clean, the staff is anxious and the doors are ready to open wide for students at All Saints Catholic Academy on Aug. 28.
Head of Schools, Renee Payne said Aug. 1 that supplies and equipme... Read More
August 8, 2019
Name: All Saints Catholic Academy
First day: Aug. 28, 2019
History: ASCA is located at 409 N. First Street on the campus of St. James Parish, the first Catholic Church... Read More
By Lynne Conner, Observer Correspondent
May 2, 2019
ROCKFORD—Those “who began a good work” in the life of Boylan Central Catholic High School alumnae, Amanda Clement, are sharing in the performer’s success as Clement made a visit to her alma mater April 29.
She spoke to choir ... Read More
By Louise Brass, Observer Correspondent
April 11, 2019
MAYTOWN—St. Patrick would be proud! The people of the church named for him in Maytown have kept faith with the founding families and maintained the church building through thick and thin for 100 years.
Although the population in the area has thinned... Read More
By Louise Brass, Observer Correspondent
April 11, 2019
MAYTOWN—The roots of St. Patrick Parish in Maytown go back almost 180 years, and the founding families planted those roots deep.
This parish was started in 1840, before the Civil War. The first Mass was said in the home of William Dolan, just a few ... Read More
By Amanda Hudson, News Editor
April 4, 2019
SPRINGFIELD—It was a busy day March 20 at the State Capitol as an estimated 4,000 pro-life advocates from around Illinois gathered to lobby their elected officials and participate in an afternoon rally against bills that are moving through the House and Senate that would radically dere... Read More
By Amanda Hudson, News Editor
March 7, 2019
“Katie” has an inner joy that sparkles out, particularly when she talks about God.
Her deep happiness, rooted in God’s mercy, is hard won. Now in her mid-50s, Katie continues to recover from her two abortions, the first done when she was... Read More
March 7, 2019
DIOCESE—Bishop David Malloy asked that his Feb. 28 letter about abortion laws in Illinois be read at all weekend Masses on March 2 and 3. The text of the letter follows:
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
March 7, 2019
Abortions laws are in flux in the United States, ranging from a New York law that allows abortion up to delivery to a Missouri law that bans abortion when the heartbeat of an unborn child can be detected.
Catholic News Service reports new abortion legisla... Read More
By Amanda Hudson, News Editor
February 28, 2019
ROCKFORD—“People want to talk with us because we have a wife (and maybe) children,” said Deacon Ignacio Felix.
Deacon Thomas Petit agreed. “People see us (as someone who) has walked in their shoes,” he said. “They think... Read More
February 21, 2019
DIOCESE—On Feb. 13, two new abortion bills were introduced in the Illinois General Assembly.
They are House Bill (HB) 2467: Parent Notice Abortion- Repeal, and HB 2495: The Reproductive Health Act.
“T... Read More
February 21, 2019
DIOCESE—A vote is expected on Feb. 25 in the U.S. Senate on the Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act (S. 311/H.R 962).
If passed, it would require health care providers to care for an abortion survivor as they would any newborn.
... Read MoreNovember 15, 2018
ROCKFORD—The Diocese of Rockford on Nov. 14, released a list of those priests, deacons, and religious against whom a substantiated allegation of sexual abuse of a minor has been reported.
The list includes the names of six diocesan priests, one perm... Read More
November 15, 2018
“With all my heart I seek you; do not let me stray from your commandments. In my heart I treasure your promise that I may not sin against you.” (Ps 119:10-11)
In January 2004, the Diocese of Rockford published a four-page report to th... Read More
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