From the Desk of Father Jason - February 15, 2026

Dear Saint Francis Xavier Parishioners,

Lent is nearly here. Only a few more days until Ash Wednesday. I really hope to see you are one of our Ash Wednesday Masses: 7:30 am, Noon, and 6:30 pm.

The fifth precept of the Catholic Church is “You shall observe the prescribed days of fasting and abstinence.” What does that mean? Catholics who have celebrated their 14th birthday are to abstain from meat on Ash Wednesday, all Fridays in Lent, and Good Friday. In addition to abstaining from meat, Catholics who have celebrated their 18th birthday until they celebrate their 59th birthday are to fast on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. Those who are bound by this regulation may only eat one full meal. Two smaller meals are permitted if necessary to maintain strength according to one’s needs but eating solid foods between meals is not permitted.

In other news, we continue the 2026 Bishop’s Appeal, “Be the Light.” The Diocese of Green Bay and by extension our parish does so much in northeast Wisconsin. We serve those preparing for Christian marriage through the Office of Marriage and Family Life. We serve those in need of mental health counseling through Catholic Charities. When the Diocese serves those in need, we are serving those in need as well through the Bishop’s Appeal.

You might ask what the Diocese does for Saint Francis Xavier Parish. Last week, I talked about Shepherd School where I learned how to be a pastor. The assistance of the Diocese does not end there. With our own parish financial situation, I have had to lean on the finance department at the Diocese. As we have hired new people, Father Mike and I have depended upon the Diocese’s human resources department. The Diocese of Green Bay is a great partner with our parish.

If you have already donated to the 2026 Bishop’s Appeal, thank you. If you have not yet contributed, I ask that you strongly consider doing so. My hope is that everyone gives something.

Sincerely through Jesus,

Fr. Jason