Local organizations' good works praised; concerns remain with national foundation

Last Fall, Bishop David L. Ricken became aware of some inconsistencies between the principles of the Gamaliel Foundation and the teachings of the Catholic Church.  The Gamaliel Foundation’s affiliate organization in Wisconsin is WISDOM; two local affiliates of WISDOM are JOSHUA in Green Bay and ESTHER in the Fox Cities.  About 18 Catholic parishes belong to either JOSHUA or ESTHER.

On Feb. 19, Bishop Ricken sent a letter inviting Catholic leaders of JOSHUA and ESTHER to meet with him, in person, to affirm the good works of JOSHUA and ESTHER and to discuss the situation.   His letter is as follows.

Support the ministries, programs and services to thousands

With your help, the Bishop’s Appeal is sharing our faith with countless people throughout Northeastern Wisconsin and beyond. A gift to the Bishop’s Appeal truly changes lives.

Ministries receiving funds raised by the Bishop’s Appeal include:
•    Mental Health Counseling
•    Stewardship
•    Budget Counseling
•    Youth and Young Adult Ministry
•    The Compass, the diocesan newspaper
•    Many other programs

Visit www.catholicfoundationgb.org to learn more or to make an online gift.

Experts on addiction and ministry to speak in March 2011

"An Addictive Culture; It's Impact on Parish Ministry" will be the theme for the 2011 TEAM Days of Study and Reflection for parish staff and volunteers. Experts on addiction and ministry will speak at the event, March 17-19 at the Radisson Hotel and Conference Center in Green Bay.

Check here for more details, including registration information.