New Priests, Afghan Refugees at Fort McCoy, and COVID Guidance

Host Jack Socha speaks with Bishop William Patrick Callahan about praying for Cardinal Burke, the Diocese of La Crosse’s three new seminarians and newly ordained priests and the mentoring support they receive, and the Church’s charitable work through Catholic Charities and other agencies. They discuss Afghan interpreters and families expected to be housed at Fort McCoy, the cultural and chaplaincy challenges involved, and the need for prayer and community support. The program urges COVID-19 precautions, emphasizing vaccination, masking, and staying home when sick as the virus and variants spread and plans for events and parish life remain uncertain. They also recommend reading a Catholic Bible translation for stability amid change and mention relief efforts for Haiti through reputable organizations such as CRS. The episode closes with a blessing and Jack’s reflections on a local “People Helping People” group and his 38th wedding anniversary.

00:30 Prayers for Cardinal Burke

01:13 New Seminarians and Vocations

03:39 New Priests in the Parishes

05:51 Mentoring Junior Clergy

07:28 Afghan Refugees at Fort McCoy

15:16 COVID Reality Check

17:13 Parish Guidance on Masks

25:23 Finding Stability in Scripture

28:51 Haiti Relief Response

30:23 Choosing Trusted Charities

32:09 Avoiding Donation Scams

33:29 Cardinal Burke Updates

35:26 Back to School Memories

36:51 Summer in the City

41:27 Duck and Cover Era

43:32 Vaccines and Boosters

47:22 Faith in Uncertain Times

49:34 Prayer and Blessing

50:31 People Helping People

53:28 Anniversary Reflections