Dear Brothers and Sisters,

 

This weekend, November 14 and 15, Bishop Patrick M. Neary, C.S.C. has decreed that all parishes of the Diocese of St. Cloud celebrate the Mass for the Unity of Christians at the weekend liturgies. He recognizes the need for our All Things New process, but acknowledges that that process is not easy and comes with challenges and anxieties for priests and people throughout the diocese. Bishop Neary calls us to place those struggles before the Holy Trinity - the model of unity who calls us to unity as One in Christ - and help renew that sense of unity among the Catholics of the Diocese of St. Cloud. So that we may hear from Bishop Neary in his own words, below is a slightly edited version of the letter Bishop Neary sent to the priests of the diocese back in September.

 

Peace in Christ,

Father Timothy

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Dear Brothers,

 

Grace and peace to you!

 

Over the past several years, our Diocese of Saint Cloud has walked a challenging yet hope-filled journey through the All Things New pastoral planning process. Together, we have experienced change, uncertainty, grief, discernment and renewal. Some communities have merged. Others have entered new relationships. Many parishioners continue to navigate feelings of loss, concern and anxiety about the future.

 

At the same time, we are living in a culture increasingly marked by division. Political tensions, social media conflicts, polarization within families and communities and differing visions for the Church can all make it difficult to recognize one another first as brothers and sisters in Christ. For these reasons, I am asking every parish and Area Catholic Community in our diocese to celebrate a Mass of Unity on the weekend of November 14-15, 2026.

 

This Mass of Unity Weekend will provide an opportunity for our diocesan family to pray intentionally for:

 

• Healing where there has been hurt or misunderstanding.

• Reconciliation where relationships have become strained.

• Unity among our parishes, Area Catholic Communities and diocesan ministries.

• An openness to the Holy Spirit as we continue implementing All Things New.

• A renewed commitment to our shared mission of evangelization and discipleship.

 

In the spirit of unity, I am happy to share with you that I will be providing the homily for this weekend so that we may all share one unified message for every ear to hear.

 

As pastors and pastoral leaders, you have carried much of the weight of these transitions. I am deeply grateful for your faithful service and your willingness to accompany your people through moments of both challenge and grace. This Mass of Unity Weekend is intended to support that work and remind our communities that no parish, pastor, or ACC walks alone. Thank you for your leadership and for helping our people encounter Christ, who alone can make us one.