Helping Haiti, Welcoming Afghan Refugees & COVID Guidance (Diocese of La Crosse)

Host Jack Socha introduces “Connecting the Diocese” from the Diocese of La Crosse and reflects on the song “Coming to America,” using it to frame a respectful welcome for Afghan refugees. Bishop William Patrick Callahan urges love of neighbor, condemns racism, and calls listeners to acts of kindness. Jack interviews Chris Ruff, Director of the Office for Ministries and Social Concerns, about coordinated Catholic relief efforts for Haiti’s earthquake and storm, including parish collections for the USCCB Bishops’ Emergency Disaster Fund and support through Catholic Relief Services. They discuss the Wisconsin bishops’ COVID-19 statement encouraging vaccination while protecting conscience and urging other precautions if unvaccinated, and Jack recounts a broadcaster who died after discouraging vaccination. They also cover Afghan refugees being housed at Fort McCoy, how to help through diolc.org and Catholic Charities, specific needed items, and a call to pray amid reported airport explosions in Afghanistan, closing with a prayer from Bishop Callahan.

00:00 Show Opens and Welcome

02:37 Coming to America Story

04:40 Bishop Callahan Message

06:31 Chris Ruff Joins

07:53 Haiti Disaster Relief

10:24 Diocesan Help Links

12:17 COVID and Evictions

15:39 Wisconsin Vaccine Statement

20:29 Anti Vax Tragedy

22:29 Afghan Refugees at Fort McCoy

27:18 How to Help Refugees

30:52 Ongoing Updates Ahead

32:19 Charity at the Fort

34:16 Pro Life and Hyde

36:01 40 Days for Life Plans

37:08 COVID Uncertainty Updates

39:18 Living With the Virus

40:57 Gospel of Life Event

43:03 Kindness for Workers

48:57 Wrap Up and Family News

51:19 Afghan Needs Replay

51:48 Prayer Rugs Explained

54:27 Prayers and Closing