In February 2023, on the Feast of Lourdes, my body received a diagnosis of a rare and aggressive cancer. Prospects were not good. Through the God Bearer, Mother of God, and her walk with me and the aggressive therapies by medical personnel all of the recent medical imaging has revealed no inflammation. However, as a result of the side effects of these medicines and the needed strength of recoveries and Mary’s contemplative help, I am left with a body that has a greatly diminished immune system, so I have asked Bishop Mike to appoint another Pastor for the WHEAT Community.
I will step down as Pastor and remain Vicar Forane for the WHEAT Community and the surrounding area until the Diocesan process is completed. In working with Fr. Karl, Fr. Rob, Fr. Gene Ulrich, and Fr. James Wall I have set up a schedule that does not change the present weekday and Sunday Mass schedules. I am deeply grateful for all the prayers and concerns given by everyone and know that I have offered them up to the Mother of God in deep gratitude for your goodness.
~Fr. Bernie