https://validator.w3.org/feed/docs/rss2.html Celebrate Bishop-elect Godfrey Mullen in The Messenger Fr. Godfrey Mullen, OSB, becomes bishop-elect Fr. Gene Neff dies at age 81 ‘I Feel Whole’ – Nine months after horrific car accident in Breese, Maci McCabe reflects on recovery Unexpected Honor – Catholic War Veterans Post 370 member ‘floored’ by St. Sebastian Award New council brings young adults together to socialize, evangelize BDCCW Convention reaches 99 years Top stories of 2025 An ASC sister professes her final vows at St. Augustine of Canterbury, Hecker Pope encourages priests to share responsibilities Fr. Gene Neff laid to rest Pope: Treatment of migrants ‘extremely disrespectful’ Pope to poor: God loves you; urges governments to act ‘Meeting’ the Pope: Diocesan students enjoy livestream with Pope Leo in schools, at National Catholic Youth Conference in Indianapolis ‘Breaking the Cycle’ helps businesses in disadvantaged counties, with support from Catholic Campaign for Human Development Joe Hubbard, a beacon of light for the poor, dies at age 82 Our hearts are broken: In light of tragedy at Camp Mystic, Camp Ondessonk shares safety measures Jesus provides sustenance, not ready-made answers, pope says God has been good: Trenton native Fr. Adrian Fischer, OFM, celebrates 50 years in priesthood Pope takes peek at heavens during Apollo 11 anniversary Treasures from Bethlehem: Olive wood carvings, other items from Christ’s birthplace come to O’Fallon Creator: Goal of ‘The Chosen’ is to point people to Jesus Dickens’ Christmas parable Levi James Ordained into Priesthood Pete’s personal pilgrimage: A five-year journey visiting 99 parishes in the diocese I just started crying: Fr. Barker shares his feelings about his good friend, Pope Leo XIV Pope Francis Dies at 88 – His Easter Monday death is mourned by millions, ends 12-year papacy Former Belleville Bishop installed as Omaha Archbishop Fr. Stan Konieczny, of Smithton, dies at 70 Spring Farm Blessing: Bishop McGovern visits Ruppert family in Coulterville for annual event McGovern leaving Belleville after five years as its Bishop Mater Dei junior Owen Musenbrock scores a 36 on ACT St. John the Baptist Catholic School better than ever after fire Remembering Catholic War veterans: Avenue of Flags returns on Memorial Day at Green Mount Cemetery After 40 years, Immaculate Conception students are still taking to the road to enhance learning opportunities Pope reflects on his life, urges people to look to future with hope Healing words: St. Teresa teacher Neville contributes chapter to book designed to help people navigate the grieving process Welcome to ‘Hubbard’s Haven:’ St. Vincent de Paul receives generous donation, renames its soup kitchen to honor man who has assisted the poor, homeless and hungry since 1973 ‘Codfathers’ looking forward to another season of fish fries at Queen of Peace Following the Father’s call: Casmir Cozzi on course to be ordained into priesthood in June 2027 Head of the Class: Diocesan teachers’ excellence recognized with Emerson Awards Heralded Mater Dei athlete stands tall in two sports, eyes more state titles Catching up with Most. Rev. Edward K. Braxton 200 years and counting – St. Augustine of Canterbury in Hecker celebrates milestone anniversary Getting to know Fr. Pat McDevitt – Chicago native begins new role as chancellor of Diocese of Belleville God is the author of life Blessing of the Harvest – Sun breaks through clouds as Bishop McGovern begins ceremony St. Michael Celebrates – More than 500 parishioners gather to commemorate 150 years at the church in Radom ‘Mind-blowing’ – Student from Indiana helps conserve painting of Mary, Christ Child to be used as Christmas stamp 100 candles – The Academy of Notre Dame holds centennial celebration at St. Augustine of Canterbury