Diocesan News

Unexpected Honor – Catholic War Veterans Post 370 member ‘floored’ by St. Sebastian Award

Denny Koesterer, a native of Freeburg who lives in Smithton, holds the Order of St. Sebastian Award that he received at the Catholic War Veterans National Convention in August. Koesterer was one of just three recipients (David Wilhelm photo). By David Wilhelm Messenger Editor Denny Koesterer didn’t understand what was […]

‘Breaking the Cycle’ helps businesses in disadvantaged counties, with support from Catholic Campaign for Human Development

Cairo in Alexander County receives support from Breaking the Cycle (Kathleen Hunt photo). By Linda Norris Behrens Messenger Staff Alexander County is the southernmost county in Illinois. Pulaski County is adjacent to it. Both counties, located within the Diocese of Belleville, lead the list of the highest percentage of families […]