Connecting the Diocese

Discover the extraordinary story of Father Joseph Richards and his father, Deacon Joseph Richards, as they share their intertwining paths of faith and service. From carpentry workshops to holy orders, their relationship exemplifies how the Holy Spirit works in mysterious ways across generations. In this deeply moving conversation, Deacon Richards reveals his remarkable journey of […]

Discover the powerful intersection of personal calling and divine purpose as Bishop Gerard Battersby shares his remarkable journey through priesthood. From his late vocation to his current role in ordaining new priests, Bishop Battersby offers intimate insights into the transformative power of religious service. This episode weaves together profound reflections on Pentecost, the sacrament of […]

Ever felt disconnected during Mass or struggled with understanding religious practices? The Renewal Project, an innovative initiative from the Catholic Diocese of La Crosse, offers a fresh approach to deepening your faith. Director Chris Rogers shares how this project moves beyond traditional checklists to provide flexible, personalized paths for spiritual growth. Drawing inspiration from Bishop [...

Discover the profound impact of recognizing Jesus in everyday encounters, as Fr. Sam Martin shares powerful insights about faith, vulnerability, and human connection. This episode takes an unexpected turn with a discussion about the election of the first American pope, but delves deeper into how personal encounters can transform our spiritual journey. Through touching stories […]

In an extraordinary episode of Connecting the Diocese, Bishop Gerard Battersby joins Clint Berge to discuss the groundbreaking election of Pope Leo XIV – the first American pope in history. Cardinal Robert Prevost’s journey from humble Chicago roots to the papacy, including his transformative work in Peru, takes center stage in this compelling conversation. Bishop […]

Discover how growing up as one of ten children on a dairy farm shaped Chris Hollar’s journey to becoming a dedicated parish secretary at St. Wenceslaus and St. Michael’s. Through daily farm chores and family traditions, Chris learned invaluable lessons about service, hospitality, and unwavering faith that now define her role in the church community. […]

Discover the heartwarming story of Kevin Decker hosting 30 parishioners for Easter dinner, exemplifying the true spirit of Catholic community. This episode of Connecting the Diocese brings together Monsignor Richard Gillis and Kevin Decker for an intimate conversation about their experiences at the Cathedral and the profound impact of faith on their lives. The discussion […]

Discover how a humble Polish nun’s visions transformed the Catholic Church’s understanding of God’s mercy. This profound episode unpacks the powerful legacy of Sister Maria Faustina Kowalska and the establishment of Divine Mercy Sunday by Pope John Paul II. Ann Lankford, Director of the Office for Catechesis and Evangelization, shares deep insights into Divine Mercy […]

Step into the transformative world of the Easter Vigil Mass, where darkness gives way to radiant light, symbolizing Christ’s triumphant resurrection. In this enlightening episode, Monsignor Steve Kachel shares touching personal memories of Easter celebrations and unpacks the profound symbolism woven throughout the Easter liturgy. Journey through the powerful imagery of the Easter candle procession...

Discover how a timeless poem about God’s relentless pursuit of the human soul intersects with one seminarian’s remarkable path to priesthood. Kyle Lang, currently studying in Rome, shares his transformative journey from a Catholic family in West Salem to the heart of the universal Church. Through the lens of Francis Thompson’s “The Hound of Heaven,” […]

Discover the fascinating world of chrism oil, a sacred mixture of olive oil and fragrant essence that plays a pivotal role in Catholic liturgical traditions. From the dramatic moment when a bishop breathes into the oil during consecration to its use in transforming ordinary objects and people into sacred vessels of Christ’s presence, this episode […]

From being the first African American member of the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration to becoming a powerful voice for racial justice in the Catholic Church, Sister Thea Bowman’s story is one of extraordinary courage and transformation. Despite facing initial skepticism and racism, her vibrant spirit and unwavering faith helped forge a new path for […]

Journey into an extraordinary moment as Bishop Gerard Battersby shares his unexpected encounter with Jesus Christ during prayer. In a powerful testimony, he recounts being spiritually transported to a grotto where Christ embraced him and whispered, “I’ve been waiting for you.” This transformative experience deepened the Bishop’s understanding of Christ’s presence in the Eucharist and […]

We’re looking back at the life and legacy of Father Joseph Walijewski. He founded Casa Hogar Juan Pablo II, an orphanage in Peru. By asking his intercession you can help him become a saint! Learn more: https://frjoesguild.org/ Airdate: 03/15/2025

Kevin Decker wasn’t raised Catholic but now he is using lessons learned from being a FOCUS Missionary and a Parish Mission Associate at the Cathedral to bring you closer to Christ. Airdate: 3/8/25

Airdate 2/22/25 Save the date: March 8th!  Find out why.

Airdate 2/15/25 We remember a local man killed while serving in his vocation.

Airdate 01/08/25 Find out about a big upcoming event and a new video podcast.

Airdate 2/1/25 Find out more about what our seminarians study…

Airdate 1/25/25 Relive some of the excitement of “The Answer”  event in La Crosse in June.

Airdate 01/18/24 We talk with a campus Chaplain about his experiences.

Airdate 1/11/25 A remarkable kids’ book effectively shows them Catholic Sacraments

Airdate 01/04/25 We celebrate every life as important with the Christmas radio classic.

Airdate 12/28/24 Listen to an extended conversation with Transitional Deacons And Seminarians about their journey to Priesthood.

Airdate 12/21/24 Enjoy a conversation with Bishop Battersby.