Mater Dei Seminary
Mater Dei Seminary is the traditional Catholic seminary of the Congregation of Mary Immaculate Queen, founded for the formation of clerical students preparing for ordination to the holy priesthood. Established in 1984 and originally located at Mount St. Michael in Spokane, Washington, Mater Dei Seminary was relocated in Omaha, Nebraska in 1989. It has its own website with more photos, videos and articles than we can post here. In the fall of 2019, a new property for the seminary was acquired. Situated on ten acres of land and with housing for up to 20 seminarians, the seminary is located in a rural area and provides a wonderful retreat atmosphere.
Adsum: Monthly Seminary Newsletter
Adsum, a publication of Mater Dei Seminary for the reading enjoyment of our friends and benefactors, is sent free of charge to all who request it. Sign up here to join the Adsum mailing list.
Past issues of Adsum, the newsletter of Mater Dei Seminary
May 2024: Letter from the Rector: 25th Anniversary of the episcopal consecration of Bishop Martin Davila. After death of Bishop Moises Carmona in 1991, I assisted the priests known as the Trento priests until 1999 when I petitioned them to elect one of their own to be consecrated bishop. I first met Bishop Davila in 1991 when he accompanied Bishop Carmona to Mount St. Michael for my episcopal consecration. Over the years, have grown in my appreciation for the pastoral care that Bishop Davila has exhibited for his flock. He has under his episcopal care approximately 30 priests who operate extensively throughout Mexico. His Excellency has also assisted the Catholic faithful in other countries throughout the world. He consecrated Bishop Pio Espina in Argentina at my recommendation. We three bishops have a close relationship to continue the mission that Christ commissioned His Apostles. Article: The Martyrdom of Fr. Miguel Pro. Fr. Connell Answers Moral Questions: Certainty of the Fulfillment of the Premarital Guarantees.
April 2024: Letter from the Rector: Among the great blessings of life in the seminary is that the seminarians live in close proximity to the Blessed Sacrament. Our Divine Savior is ever present in the Sacrament of His Love, there to strengthen and to counsel our future priests. After morning prayers and meditation, our seminarians assist daily at the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass and are nourished with the Living Bread that has come down from heaven. When they recite the Divine Office and the Holy Rosary, their prayers are in His Divine Presence... Fr. Connell Answers Moral Questions: Repetition of Extreme Unction.
March 2024: Letter from the Rector: This issue of the Adsum is dedicated to St. Joseph, the foster father of Christ and the faithful spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary... Let us especially invoke St. Joseph during this month of March for more vocations to the priesthood and the religious life. Besides our secular seminarians here at Mater Dei Seminary in Nebraska and Iowa, two years ago we established a religious seminary in northern Idaho (St. Louis Marie de Montfort Seminary). Early this month, Bishop Martin Davila from Mexico visited us; this year will be His Excellency’s 25th Anniversary of Episcopal Consecration. A Masterpiece of Craftsmanship, St. Joseph's Staircase in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Statement of Principle: CMRI and the Liturgy of Pope Pius XII. Fr. Connell Answers Moral Questions: Hypnotism in Dentisty.
February 2024: Letter from the Rector: Every day of Lent has its own special Mass to inspire us with greater love for Our Divine Savior. Saints tell of benefit of meditation on the Passion and Death of Our Lord. Many devotions during this Holy Season, recitation of Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary and of the Stations of the Cross are highly encouraged. Among many spiritual reading books that treat on the sufferings of Christ, St. Alphonsus Liguori’s The Passion and Death of Christ, and Goodier’s book with the same title are particularly inspirational. List of bishops consecrated during the time of interregnum between the death of Pope Clement IV (Nov. 29, 1268) and the election of Blessed Gregory X (Sept. 1, 1271). Historical precedence for the consecration of bishops when the Seat of Peter is vacant. Fr. Connell Answers Moral Questions: Bombing of Civilians; Prizefighting and Boxing.
December 2023: Letter from the Rector: The clergy and seminarians of Mater Dei Seminary sincerely wish all of our friends and benefactors a most blessed Christmas and grace-filled New Year. Thank you for your prayers and support this past year, and be assured of our prayers and sacrifices for each of you. On feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Rev. Franz Trauner and Rev. Leopold Trauner (Austria) were ordained to the Subdiaconate; Frater Martin Sentman, CMRI, (Michigan) received the minor orders of exorcist and acolyte; Anthony Alley (South Dakota), Kyle St. Aubin (Canada), Thomas Netzel (Washington), Richard Lauricella (Washington), and Lucas Costa (Brazil) received the minor orders of porter and lector. And when seminary classes resume after Epiphany, we thank God and our Blessed Mother that we will be welcoming new arrivals. A short article on St. Lucy, Virgin and Martyr, and, from Outlines of Moral Theology by Francis Connell: Circumstances of Restitution & Causes Excusing from Restitution.
November 2023: Letter from the Rector: Pray for the Holy Souls during the month of November. The priests and seminarians recently visited the beautiful church of St. Joseph in Earling, Iowa, and the adjoining cemetery. This church was the site of the famous exorcism described in the book Begone Satan. The most important issue that faces the world today is the eternal loss of souls, which is the seminary is so important, as it prepares young men to carry on the mission of the Church for souls. Please pray for the seminarians who will be taking steps towards the major and minor orders on December 12th. In other news, Fr. Eugen Rissling recently blessed a new chapel for his congregation in Ulm, Germany, and Bishop Pio Espina traveled to the Philippines to administer Sacrament of Confirmation. Excerpt from the American Ecclesiastical Review: Catholics Assisting at an Invalid Marriage.
October 2023: Letter from the Rector: The holy Rosary is the spiritual weapon that has saved the Church and Catholic nations from the attacks of our enemies, both visible and invisible. The Battle of Lepanto is just one example. Pope Leo XIII, a great devotee of the Rosary, wrote an encyclical on the Rosary every year of his pontificate. Our Blessed Mother asked for the Rosary in her apparitions at Lourdes and Fatima. In these terrible times of immorality and godlessness, let us take up our spiritual arms of the holy Rosary and the Brown Scapular that we may persevere in our Catholic Faith. On the feast of St. Michael, the seminarians both served and sang at Solemn High Mass. The beautiful vestments used for this occasion were a gift of the Carmelite Sisters in Guadalajara. The feast of the Divine Maternity, October 11, is the titular feast of the seminary, making it always special to the clergy and seminarians. Excerpts from the Life of Pope St. Pius V. Fr. Connell Answers Moral Questions: Flour for Altar Breads.
September 2023: Letter from the Rector: Mater Dei Seminary begins its 34th year of scholastic studies. Every year young men, not only from the US but also from other countries, come to the seminary to prepare to become other Christs. Important part of their formation is that they foster a great love and devotion to the Mother of God. Long time tradition to begin classes on the feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, September 8th. Followed closely by several other very special feasts: September 12th, feast of the Holy Name of Mary; September 15th, the Seven Sorrows of Mary; and finally September 24th, the feast of Our Lady of Ransom (Bp. Pivarunas’ anniversary of episcopal consecration in 1991). Acquisition of the new seminary ten acre property a few years ago has been very providential. Situated in the country to create a spirit of retreat and recollection. Recent visits from Fr. Gerard McKee, CMRI , Fr. Joseph Appelhanz, and Fr. Carlos Zepeda. Article: Take up Thy Cross and Follow Me” (The North American Martyrs) Fr. Connell Outlines of Moral Theology: Nature of Law.
August 2023: Letter from the Rector: Annual meetings of our religious priests and secular priests to review matters of moral and dogmatic theology, canon law, the liturgy, and pastoral issues, but also to maintain unity. Our religious priests meet in January at Mount St. Michael’s in Spokane and the secular priests met recently at Mary Immaculate Catholic Church in Omaha. Those overseas join in on Skype to be united with their fellow priests in the conferences and discussions. Twenty-two Masses are offered before starting our meeting at 10 am. Canon law requires newly ordained priests to continue their ecclesiastical studies, which our priests’ meetings provide, as well as a necessary review for our older priests. Recent visit from Bishop Pio Espina from Argentina. Mater Dei Academy will soon begin classes for our 36th school year, and our new scholastic year for Mater Dei Seminary will shortly after begin our 34th year of classes. Forever grateful to Almighty God and the Blessed Virgin Mary and we cannot thank all of you enough for your continued prayers and support for the seminary. Article on Father Damien, the Leper Priest. Fr. Connell Answers Moral Questions: Adolescent Company Keeping.
July 2023: Letter from the Rector: Annual retreat for our priests and religious Sisters concludes with a Solemn High Mass and Corpus Christi Procession. Among the many spiritual advantages of our priests and religious is living in close proximity with the Blessed Sacrament, the center of our lives. On a recent pastoral visit to Argentina the bishop saw the magnificent gold threaded chasuble used by Cardinal Eugenio Pacelli (the future Pope Pius XII) during the Eucharistic Congress in Buenos Aires (1934). Over a million people were in attendance, and 70,000 first communicants all dressed in white. Cardinal Pacelli, overwhelmed with emotion, wept for joy. Great is our privilege to preserve the traditional Catholic Faith in these times; let us always treasure Jesus Christ in the Sacrament of His love! Fr. Connell Answers Moral Questions: The Mixed Marriage Guarantees and Marriage of a Minor.
June 2023: Letter from the Rector: Seed of vocations are fostered in good Catholic families. Joy to see the first blessing of a newly ordained priest to his parents. Many prayers and sacrifices have been made by fathers and mothers to support their sons on their spiritual journey especially during their formation in the seminary. Friends and benefactors of Mater Dei Seminary are a part of the spiritual work of the seminary in the formation of men for the priesthood. The seminary could not adequately function without your prayers and financial support. For this the seminarians, priests, and bishop are most grateful. Each month a special Mass is said for the benefactors of the seminary. Pictures of the First Masses of the newly ordained priests. Fr. Connell Answers Moral Questions: Assistance at Mass in the “Crying Room” and Sunday Observance.
May 2023: Letter from the Rector: Letter from the Rector: The close to another scholastic year for our seminary. Five new priests ordained on May 11: Fr. Aloysius Hartman, CMRI (Arizona), Fr. Adam Craig (Michigan), Fr. Giles Pardue (Alabama), Fr. Caleb Armour (Scotland), and Fr. Matias Chimenton (Argentina). Also seminarians who received the First Clerical Tonsure: Thomas Netzel (Washington), Richard Lauricella (Washington), Anthony Alley (South Dakota), Francisco Gomez (Mexico), Lucas Costa (Brazil), and Kyle St. Aubin (Canada); also, Frater Martin Sentman, CMRI who received the minor orders of Porter and Lector, and those who received the last two minor orders of Exorcist and Acolyte: Noah Ellis (Kentucky), Franz Trauner (Austria), Leopold Trauner (Austria), and Krzysztof Handke (Poland). 27 religious and secular priests present to assist at the ordination ceremonies. Fr. Connell Answers Moral Questions: How Early in an Illness May There Be Anointing of the Sick?
April 2023: Letter from the Rector: Upcoming ordinations to First Tonsure and minor orders on May 9th, and the subdiaconate and priesthood on May 11th. Four new CMRI novice brothers: Bro. Simon Marie (Gabriel Davis, IA), Bro. John Marie (Jesse Sand, MN), Bro. Anthony Marie (Thaddeus Kuck, NE), and Bro. Mary Jude (Kirk Thompson, CA), who received the habit at the end of March. Photos of Holy Week. Moral Theology by Fr. Connell: Falsehoods by One in Authority, The Conscientious Ballplayer.
March 2023: Letter from the Rector: The saints and spiritual writers tell us of the beneficial devotion of meditation on the Passion of Christ. The Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary and Stations of the Cross help us call to mind the great love of Our Divine Redeemer. Old Testament prophecies foretell the future sufferings of the Messiah. Outlines of Moral Theology by Fr. Connell: Regulations on Fast and Abstinence.
February 2023: Letter from the Rector: Please pray for the repose of the soul of Susan Walz, the mother of Fr. Augustine, CMRI, who died recently. She was privileged to receive the Last Rites from her son. As is customary, the linen that wrapped the anointed hands of Fr. Augustine when he was newly ordained priest were buried with her. Our seminarians interrupted their classes for two days in order serve at her funeral and to sing the high Requiem Mass. Susan was not only the mother of a priest, but also has a grandson, Thaddeus Kuck, who will be received as a CMRI novice this March. The fostering of a special love and devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary is an important part of spiritual preparation of the seminarians for the priesthood. Reflections on the Apparitions of Our Lady to St. Bernadette at Lourdes, France. Candlelight Rosary procession in honor of Our Lady of Lourdes concluded with Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament. Outlines of Moral Theology by Fr. Connell: The Order of Charity.
January 2023: Letter from the Rector: During the Epipahny season, we celebrate the manifestation of Our Divine Savior to the Magi by means of a miraculous star. There is a striking similarity between the vocation of the Magi and the calling of a young man to the holy priesthood. Let us pray for more young men to follow the “star” of a priestly vocation. The relics of the Three Kings are enshrined in Cologne Cathedral. Outlines of Moral Theology by Fr. Connell: Charity: Co-operation
December 2022: Letter from the Rector: Christmas greetings, photos of recent ordinations: Franz and Leopold Trauner (Austria), Krysztof Handke (Poland), and Noah Ellis (Kentucky) received the minor orders of Porter and Lector; Frater Alphonsus Vincent, CMRI, (Idaho) received the minor orders of Exorcist and Acolyte; Rev. Caleb Armour (Scotland), Rev. Giles Pardue (Alabama), Rev. Matias Chimenton (Argentina), Rev. Adam Craig (Michigan), Rev. Wojciech Wieckowski (Poland) and Frater Aloysius Hartman, CMRI, (Arizona) were ordained to the Diaconate. Fr. Connell Answers Moral Questions: Anesthesia to a Dying Person
November 2022: Letter from the Rector: This year’s Fatima Conference at Mount St. Michael’s was especially significant, as Bishop Davila and Bishop Espina were in attendance. Both bishops had the opportunity to address all the faithful, and Bishop Espina presented the key note address on this year’s theme: “She shall crush thy head” (Genesis 3:15)... Moral Theology: Country or Conscience? Question: One of the questions sometimes put to Catholics in the United States is this: “In the event that there was a conflict between the laws of our country and the teachings of the Catholic Church, which would you obey?” What reply should a Catholic give to this query?
October 2022: Letter from the Rector: The month of October celebrates the titular feast of our seminary, “Mater Dei” the Mother of God, on October 11th, the feast of the Divine Maternity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The reason this title of Our Blessed Mother was chosen back in 1989 (when the seminary was transferred from Mount St. Michael in Spokane, Washington, to Omaha) is that Jesus Christ, the Eternal High Priest, spent 30 years of His 33 years on earth in the hidden life at Nazareth in the company of His Holy Mother Mary. As the seminary is another Nazareth to prepare future priests, Our Lady is an important part of these formations... Article: St. Philomena, Virgin and Martyr. Outlines of Moral Theology: Institution of the Sacraments and The Minister of the Sacraments.
September 2022: Letter from the Rector: As the numbers of our religious and secular priests increase over the years, it has been difficult to hold combined meetings each year. Thus, our CMRI religious priests meet at Mt. St. Michael in Spokane, Washington, during the month of January, and our secular priests meet during the month of July at Mary Immaculate Catholic Church here in Omaha, Nebraska. This past July, nineteen of our secular priests (as well as Fray Leon, OFM) gathered
for conferences and discussions on various topics in Canon Law, Moral Theology, and Dogmatic Theology. These annual meetings are a wonderful means to maintain unity among our priests and also coordinate our priestly work in the most effective way possible for the benefit of all the souls committed to our pastoral care. We were joined via Skype by Bishop Pio Espina (Argentina), Fr. Rissling and Fr. Heyne (Germany), Fr. Casas-Silva (Argentina), and Fr. Saunders (Canada)... Outlines of Moral Theology: The Nature and Various Kinds of Conscience.
August 2022: Letter from the Rector: Recent General Chapter of the CMRI Sisters and Diet for the CMRI priests and religious at Mount St. Michael in Spokane, WA. Chapter is a gathering of professed religious every 6 years to elect a Mother General and four Sister Consultors and to review constitutions and rule of the Congregation. Rev. Mother Mary Agnes, CMRI was re-elected as the Mother General. A Diet is a gathering of professed religious in between Chapters; no elections are held occur but important matters that pertain to religious life are discussed. Bishop Pivarunas, as the Superior General of CMRI, is required to be present for both Sisters’ Chapter and priests’ Diet. Relocation of religious seminary from Olathe, Colorado to Rathdrum, Idaho. Fr. Bernard Welp, CMRI, will move to Olathe as the superior of novices. Our priests and religious conducted various summer camps for our boys and girls around the country. In the Midwest, Fr. Michael Sellner organized a boys’ camp near Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin; in the mountains of northern Idaho, Fr. Philip Davis, CMRI conducted a boys’ camp; and Fr. Gabriel Lavery, CMRI held a boys’ camp along the beautiful rivers in Ohio. The CMRI Sisters had their St. Philomena’s Girls Camp at Mt. St. Michael, and the CMD Sisters had their girls’ camp in Nebraska and Iowa with a record number of girls --161. Article: St. Philomena, Virgin and Martyr. Outlines of Moral Theology: The Profession of Faith.
July 2022: Letter from the Rector: Since 2004, Mater Dei Seminary has been approved to receive foreign students through the federal government SEVIS program, and both our seminary and our academy are recertified every two years in order to maintain our status. Our seminary class schedule is specially organized for the six-year limit on the foreign seminarians’ visas. There are five years (10 semesters) of actual classes (in philosophy, Latin, dogmatic and moral theology, Canon Law, liturgy, Sacred Scripture, Church History, etc.), and one year after ordination for the newly-ordained priests to continue their formation under the spiritual direction of older experienced priests. Practice of priests offering more than one Mass on Sundays and holydays of obligation is based on moral theology Canon Law and the spiritual plight of many souls throughout the world. The late Bishop Carmona offered five Masses on Sunday in addition to hearing confessions and performing baptisms for his extremely large parish in Mexico. Serious financial difficulties and other hardships prevent families from moving to larger Mass locations. July 1st is the 25th Anniversary of the priestly ordination for Fr. Michael Anaya, and also Fr. David Baryj, who recently passed away and was buried at Mount St. Michael. 36th Priestly Anniversary of Fr. Casimir Puskorius, CMRI, pastor at Mount St. Michael. Outlines of Moral Theology: The Necessity of Faith.
June 2022: Letter from the Rector: The ending of the scholastic and academic school year is a reminder of the importance of creating a Catholic atmosphere in the parish and academy in order to foster vocations to the priesthood and religious life. Many vocations have come from Mater Dei Academy, which provides a spiritually healthy schedule of daily Mass, frequent confession, recitation of the Rosary, and the various liturgies and devotions. Congratulations to Fr. Timothy Geckle for recently completing two beautiful churches in Arkansas, one in Mountain View and the other outside of Little Rock for his growing flock. Recent blessing of these two churches. Next undertaking is the renovation of a house on the church property in Mountain View for a convent. Excerpt from The Blessed Eucharist, Our Greatest Treasure by Fr. Michael Muller, CSSR: The Most Holy Festival of Corpus Christi and its Origin. Outlines of Moral Theology: The Nature of Charity.
May 2022: Letter from the Rector: The recent passing of Bishop Dolan, who was consecrated by Bishop Pivarunas in 1993; upcoming consecration of Fr. Charles McGuire; ending of the scholastic year; eleven seminarians have advanced through the various steps towards the priesthood. Outlines of Moral Theology: The Principal of Double Effect.
April 2022: Letter from the Rector: This issue of the Adsum is published during Holy Week, in which we celebrate the most solemn events in the history of mankind—the Passion, Death and Resurrection of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. How beneficial it is for our seminarians to assist in the Sacred Liturgy and learn the ceremonies in detail. This will serve as an excellent preparation for them when they are ordained priests and will carry out these ceremonies on their own. Outlines of Moral Theology: Lies.
March 2022: Letter from the Rector: One of the four marks of the Church founded by Jesus Christ — the Catholic Church — is that it is one: one in faith, in worship, and in authority. In these confusing days, it is important to maintain unity amongst traditional Catholics. There have been and always will be differences of opinion in matters that have not been authoritatively settled by the Church -- between religious orders, saints, theologians, and even between the Holy Office and the Roman Rota. But it is necessary to try to avoid divisions on matters of opinion. We must learn to agree to disagree and avoid unnecessary conflicts: “in matters of Faith, unity; in matters of opinion, liberty; in all things, charity.” Excerpt from The Golden Rule or The Book for All “On the Difficulties of Governing.” Outlines of Moral Theology: The Nature of a Contract.
February 2022: Letter from the Rector: On the joyful occasion of the episcopal consecration of Fr. Pio Espina of the Church of St. Joseph (Molinari, Argentina), by His Excellency Bishop Martin Davila, I wish publicly to state of my approval of this consecration. Fr. Pio Espina has been a priest for 18 years, and there is no doubt of his dedication to Holy Mother the Catholic Church and of his generosity in service of the Church. I do wish to express my sincere appreciation to His Excellency Bishop Martin Davila for his sacrifice to travel to Argentina and to perform the episcopal consecration. Outlines of Moral Theology: Aleatory Contracts.
January 2022: Letter from the Rector: In imitation of the Good Shepherd, many of our priests are pastors of multiple churches and Mass centers, and this requires a remarkable amount of traveling throughout the Midwest each Sunday and holyday of obligation. As the feasts of Christmas and the Circumcision this year fell on Saturdays, there was a double duty for our priests. Fr. Sandquist offers Masses at St. Theresa’s (O’Neill, Nebraska) and St. Mary’s (Rockville, Nebraska), which entails approximately 8 hours of driving; Fr. Sellner travels up to Immaculate Conception (Sartell, Minnesota) to offer 3 Masses and then to Springfield, Minnesota, for a 4th Mass, which takes about 14 hours of driving; Fr. Borja covers 2 Mass centers in Oklahoma, with 16 hours of drive time; and I offer 2 Masses in Omaha followed by a 3rd Mass in Topeka, Kansas, which takes about 6 hours... Another excerpt from Guadalupe, What Her Eyes Say by Francis Anson. Outlines of Moral Theology: Wills.
December 2021: Letter from the Rector: The clergy and seminarians of Mater Dei Seminary sincerely wish all of you a very Blessed Christmas and grace-filled New Year! Recenter events: Ordinations on the transferred feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, during which four seminarians received the last two minor orders. This issue contains an excerpt from Guadalupe, What Her Eyes Say by Francis Anson. It includes an interview of renowned ophthalmologist who examined the eyes on the tilma. Our Lady’s words to Juan Diego: “Let nothing discourage you, nothing depress you. Let nothing alter your heart or countenance. Also do not fear any illness and vexation, anxiety or pain. Am I not here who am your mother? Are you not under my shadow and protection?” Let us take comfort in Our Lady’s words in these difficult times. Outlines of Moral Theology: Sobriety and Drunkenness.
November 2021: Letter from the Rector: November 2021 was the 30th anniversary of the death of Bishop Moises Carmona, whose body appeared to be incorrupt when it was moved from the cemetery to the church crypt several years later. This newsletter contains a brief summary of his life and priestly work in Mexico. Our seminarians had several opportunities to sing and serve at several funerals this year, an experience which is a great learning lesson for them in their preparation for the priesthood. Please pray for our seminarians who will be receiving minor orders on December 13, the transferred feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Photos of the martyrdom of Fr. Miguel Pro. Outlines of Moral Theology: Superstition.
July 2021:
Letter from the Rector: Annual secular priests’ meeting in Omaha: opportunity for parishioners to assist at visit with priests from all over the country. The church is an inspiring sight each morning with multiple Masses being offered. The priests come together to review and discuss matters in theology and canon law. Photos of the seminary on 10 acres nestled in the quiet, rolling countryside of Iowa. This 10-acre retreat-like property has a large pond and huge out-building for storage. Now our herd of 14 cows can be divided between seminary and convent for grazing. Livestock provides meat, milk, butter and cheese for the seminary, convent, and boarding school. We have six new seminarians for the new scholastic year, three from U.S., one from Poland, and two from Brazil. Outlines of Moral Theology: Sanctification of Feasts.
June 2021 Letter from the Rector: Annual Retreat for the priests & religious during week of Corpus Christi: Solemn High Mass & Procession of the Blessed Sacrament. Our Lord must be the center of our lives: Most important part of the day for a priest or religious, the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. 14 cows that provide milk, cheese, and beef to feed us throughout the year. Convent sits on five acres of property and seminary on 10 acres. Recently the beef cows managed to escape. After 25 hrs, the escapees were found 3 miles away. Secular priests to gather in Omaha for annual priests’ meeting. 17 priests expected to be in attendance. Discussion of matters of dogmatic and moral theology as well as practical pastoral questions and continued development of unity amongst them. Richness of the the sacred liturgy in the celebration of feasts of our precious Catholic Faith. Month of June dedicated to the Sacred Heart. Modesty in dress and Our Lady of Fatima. Article on St. Anthony of Padua. Outlines of Moral Theology: Common Law Marriage
May 2021 Ordinations to the Minor Orders for several of our seminarians. Rogation day procession and chanting of the Litany of the Saints. Article: The Path of Mary (1878). Outlines of Moral Theology: Fortitude
April 2021: Providential decisions of Pope Pius XII: Eucharistic Fast: Restored Order of Holy Week- beautiful ceremonies of Easter Vigil and of Holy Week in general. Church’s infallibility extends to general discipline of the Church and that of the Sacred Liturgy. 23 Priests and Seminarians participated in Chanting of Tenebrae. Fr. Connell Answers Moral Questions: Military Activities Contrary to the Law of God.
March 2021: Letter from the Rector: Importance of the Sacred Liturgy: Seminarians receive first hand experience by assisting our priests throughout the year in baptisms, funerals, weddings, religious vows, litany processions, and confirmations. Unique privilege to serve at sacred ceremonies of Holy Week. Seminarians have received their particular assignments as to which of our priests they will accompany to our various churches throughout the Midwest for Holy Week. Besides classes and studies, the seminarians do have manual labor. Assist with the care of our dairy cows; herd of 14 cows. Daily feed over sixty people including priests, seminarians, Sisters and boarding students. Cows have been a great investment over past 14 years. Month of March dedicated to St Joseph: patron of the universal Church and special patron of vocations. Excerpt from Roman Breviary: March 17th- Feast of St. Patrick. Outlines of Moral Theology: Mortal & Venial Sin.
February 2021: Letter from the Rector: Season of Lent and three primary means to practice sacrifice and penance: fasting & abstinence; 40 days and 40 nights Our Lord fasted and prayed in the desert. Sacrifice of sleep; Christ spent many sleepless nights in prayer. Endurance of inclement temperature; freezing temperatures as low as negative 30 degrees Fahrenheit in Nebraska! Our Lord invites us to follow Him and take up our crosses. St. Louis De Montfort: Friends of the Cross. Installation of wood stove at new seminary. Seminarians help cut wood on Saturday to keep seminary warm. Also assist with snow maintenance of our church and school parking lots and sidewalks. Candlelight Rosary in honor of Our Lady of Lourdes. Importance of liturgy and Gregorian Chant: Blessing of Candles and Solemn High Mass on Feast of the Purification. Outlines of Moral Theology: The Factors of Morality.
January 2021: Letter from the Rector: Acquisition of a new larger church for our St. Cloud, MN, parish. Within six weeks, the church was purchased and the old church sold. Momentous task to move and to transform new church into a beautiful Catholic sanctuary. Seminarians joined Fr. Molina, Fr. Sellner, Brother Mary Xavier, the CMD Sisters, and many parishioners in a “marathon” to renovate in time for first Mass to be offered there on Jan 1st. Blessing of New Church on Jan. 16th followed by Pontifical High Mass. Great Deal of Construction work to be accomplished but this is an answer to many prayers to Our Lady, St. Philomena, and St. Joseph. Another major project was the installation of new carpet in Mary Immaculate Catholic Church where our seminarians are ordained. After nearly 30 years, old carpet needed to be replaced. Solemn High Mass on feast of Epiphany. St. Ambrose’s famous discourse “De Virginibus” on the virtues of St. Agnes. Outlines of Moral Theology: Oaths.
December 2020: Sincere wishes for a Blessed Christmas and grace-filled New Year! Three new priests were ordained on December 12: Fr. Denis McGuire (Connecticut), Fr. Carlos Zepeda (Guadalajara), and Fr. Josef Weissensteiner (Austria). It was a memorable day as many Catholic faithful attended the beautiful Pontifical Mass and Ordination ceremonies. Fr. Zepeda will be joining Fr. Geckle in Arkansas and cover our Mass centers in Oklahoma. Fr. McGuire will join Fr. Gronenthal at Our Lady of the Sun in Phoenix, Arizona; he will be assisting Fr. Ephrem Cordova, CMRI, at Queen of Most Holy Rosary Church. Fr. Weissensteiner will return to Europe to assist Fr. Floriano Abrahamowicz in Treviso, Italy. Our religious seminarians traveled from western Colorado to join the secular seminarians in assisting at the ordinations and first Solemn High Masses of our new priests. In celebrating the birth of our Divine Savior, let us always remember, especially in these times of turmoil, that Christ is the Prince of Peace. Outlines of Moral Theology: Restitution Because of Damnification.
November 2020:
Letter from the Rector: International seminarians were able to come to join us for this fall: Rev. Josef Weissensteiner together with three other Austrians and one Argentinian; On the feast of Sts. Simon & Jude, October 28th, Caleb Armor (Scotland), Giles Pardue (Alabama), & Matias Chimenton (Argentina) received the clerical tonsure and Rev. Josef Weissensteiner the diaconate. Month of November dedicated to Holy Souls. The Pope Speaks: Fashion & Virtue. Outlines of Moral Theology: Hiring & Renting
October 2020:
Letter from the Rector: Upcoming elections: Widespread moral and spiritual problems much more than political. Solution to world’s problems contained in message of Fatima. Third secret to have been revealed in 1960. Year of radical changes: Second Vatican Council: errors previously condemned were promulgated; false ecumenism, religious indifferentism. New order of the Mass in 1969: Striking departure from the Catholic Mass as defined by Council of Trent. New Rite of Consecration of Bishops introduced in 1968. Witnessing today nothing less than Great Apostasy: Need amendment of life, prayer and sacrifice for sinners, daily recitation of the Rosary and recourse to Her Immaculate Heart. The Pope Speaks: Moral Obligation to Vote. Outlines of Moral Theology: Fraternal Correction & Almsgiving.
September 2020:
Please pray for the repose of the soul of Fr. Anthony Cekada of St. Gertrude the Great in Cincinnati, Ohio. He was a distinguished writer with a brilliant mind and great sense of humor. The new scholastic year has begun at Mater Dei Seminary with 17 seminarians: 10 secular and 7 religious, and with more on the way from other countries. On September 15, the feast of Our Lady of Sorrows, Jacob Hasbrouck (Michigan) was received as a novice, taking the name Brother Mary Joachim, CMRI. We also have two new postulants: William Sentman (Michigan) and Justin Miller (California). Reception of cassock for five seminarians. Vows for the Sisters of the Congregation of the Mother of God. The seeds of vocations planted in hearts of the youth who witness the generosity of religious. During this time of civil unrest in our country, let us recall that God always has final victory and Mother of God ever crushes head of Satan. Let us turn to Almighty God for His protection and have recourse to our heavenly Mother. Outlines of Moral Theology: Sobriety and Drunkenness.
August 2020:
The secular priests who work with CMRI now meet in Omaha, Nebraska, during the summer, and the religious priests meet in Spokane, Washington, in January. Solemn High Mass on Aug. 11, the feast of St. Philomena. Four young ladies to join the Congregation of the Mother of God, who operate nine parochial schools in six states and number 33 Sisters. Completion of construction of new classroom and extension of chapel at the new seminary property. The new scholastic year for the seminary begins on Sept. 8, the feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. We have ten secular seminarians here at Mater Dei and seven young religious men in Olathe, Colorado. Upcoming priestly ordinations: Rev. Denis McGuire (Connecticut), Rev Carlos Zepeda (Mexico), and Rev. Josef Weissensteiner (Austria) on December 12th, feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Upcoming Annual Fatima Conference in Spokane, WA. Excerpts from Mary’s War Against Communism by George Montague, S.M.: Outlines of Moral Theology: Scandal (Continued)
July 2020:
Mater Dei Seminary will resume classes in September, but our religious seminarians will now be stationed in Olathe, Colorado, with Fr. Gregory Drahman, CMRI, while the secular
seminarians will remain here in Omaha with Bishop Pivaraunas and Fr. Borja. This is so that the religious seminarians will have a more monastic atmosphere where they
can better foster the spirit of the religious life. Short history of Mater Dei Seminary; First vows of Bro. Alphonsus Maria; Final vows of Sr. Frances Marie, CMD. Civil unrest and instability in our society: Warning of Our Lady of Fatima on errors of Communism. Month of July dedicated to Most Precious Blood of Jesus; price of our redemption: pray and sacrifice for conversion of poor sinners; Outlines of Moral Theology: Scandal
June 2020:
It was most appropriate that the annual retreat for the priests and religious concluded on Corpus Christi with a Solemn High Mass and Procession of the Blessed Sacrament. The Blessed Sacrament, and especially Holy Mass, must be center of a priest’s life, for he is an “alter Christus” and acts in person of Christ. The summer months are full of activities for the seminarians and religious Brothers, including construction at seminary to expand the chapel and classroom, maintaining two large gardens, landscaping at the seminary and general maintenance of church, seminary, and convent. Despite all the recent turmoil in society, our seminarians and religious live out in the country where they can enjoy a peace and tranquility far removed from all distractions and turmoil of city life. Outlines of Moral Theology: The Holy Eucharist as a Sacrifice.
May 2020:
The recent state-mandated health restrictions have brought both crosses and blessings. We have had extra class time with seminarians and also the completion of numerous work projects on the new seminary. On May 11, the feast of Ss. Philip and James, Bishop Pivarunas conferred clerical tonsure on Adam Craig (Michigan) and the diaconate on Rev. Denis McGuire (Connecticut). During the sermon on that day, His Excellency stressed the importance of fidelity to our vocations and the need for seminarians to lay a solid spiritual foundation. This is a time during which they are spiritually formed in the womb of Mary until they are brought forth as other Christs. During these unstable times, let us find comfort in the words of St. Bernard: “In dangers, in troubles, in doubts, think of Mary, call upon Mary...” Outlines of Moral Theology: Other Potential Parts of Justice: Piety, Duties of Parents.
April 2020:
Easter Greetings. Despite government restrictions, seminary classes have continued at Mater Dei Seminary as normal, and our priests continue to provide the Mass and the sacraments every weekend in the Midwest. Holy Week is a time of many opportunities for seminarians to prepare for the priesthood by serving in the sacred liturgy of Palm Sunday, the Chanting of Tenebrae, the Mass of the Chrism and the Mass of the Last Supper on Holy Thursday, the Good Friday liturgy, and the Easter Vigil. Major Orders and first Tonsure will be conferred on May 11. Outlines of Moral Theology: Effects of Holy Communion; Parents Receiving With First Communicants
March 2020:
The seminarians living on our new seminary property have completed construction on their new chapel, which took the place of the temporary one they had been using. This is so important because seminary life revolves around Our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament. Another recent construction at the seminary was that of the new walk-in freezer, which was necessary because of a large donation of 18,000 lbs of meat. Recent minor orders: Frederic Kannengiesser, a seminarian from France who received the minor orders of Porter and Lector. Pray to St. Joseph for vocations during this month in his honor, for he is the patron of vocations. The Passover, an excerpt from The Tragedy of Calvary by Fr. James Meagher. Outlines of Moral Theology: Sobriety and Drunkenness.
February 2020:
A total of 28 priests attended the recent biannual priests’ meetings at Mount St. Michael in Spokane, Washington. Over the years we have come to see this as an important factor in maintaining unity among our priests. Approximately 154 priests and religious worldwide are currently under the spiritual care of Bishop Pivarunas. Recent events: Final Vows of Brother Thomas Marie (Lawrence), CMRI; Jacob Hasbrouck received as a postulant in the Religious Congregation of Mary Immaculate Queen. Vows for a number of religious Sisters of the Congregation of the Mother of God. Excerpt from History of All the Great Empires of the Earth by Rev. James L. Meagher. Outlines of Moral Theology: Almsgiving and Fraternal Correction.
January 2020:
We observe later this month the Chair of Unity Octave Prayers, which consist of special prayers for the conversion of non-Catholics. The occtave begins on the Feast of St. Peter’s Chair at Rome (Jan. 18) and ends on the Feast of the Conversion of St. Paul the Apostle (Jan 25). Each day has a daily special intention for which to pray. Let us pray and do our part to work for the conversion of souls and their ultimate salvation. Photos of the First Solemn High Masses of our new priests. St Francis Xavier, Patron of Foreign Missions. Outlines of Moral Theology: Fortitude.
December 2019:
On December, the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, three new priests were ordained to the holy priesthood: Fr. Michael Sellner (Minnesota), Fr. Joseph Appelhanz (Colorado), Fr. Joseph Pham (Vietnam). Rev. Carlos Zepeda (Mexico) was ordained to the diaconate. It was an inspiring sight, with twenty-two priests in attendance at the Pontifical High Mass. Reflecting upon the Birth of Christ, and God’s special love for humble and simple souls like the shepherds who came to adore the newborn King. Outlines of Moral Theology: Veracity
November 2019:
November is the month of the Holy Souls. The doctrine of Purgatory can be found in both Sacred Scripture and Tradition, in both Old and New Testament, the early Church Fathers, and the liturgy of the Church. In the Novus Ordo church, the Requiem Mass has been replaced with the Mass of the Resurrection. It is a spiritual work of Mmercy to pray for the dead; we must remember the importance of atonement and expiation for sin. Upcoming priestly ordinations on December 12. Your Cross by St. Francis de Sales. Moral Theology: Assistance at Mass in the “Crying Room”; Sunday Observance.
October 2019:
The feast of the Divine Maternity was instituted by Pope Pius XI in 1931 to celebrate the 1500th Anniversary of Council of Ephesus, which condemned the errors of Nestorius. As this is the titular Feast of Mater Dei Seminary, the occasion was celebrated with a Solemn High Mass and Exposition of Blessed Sacrament. Our Lady has once again shown herself our Mother by the acquisition of a 10-acre property with housing for 15-20 persons for the Seminary. The purchase closed on the Feast of Our Lady of Ransom, and our younger Seminarians took up residence there on the Feast of the Holy Rosary. The location provides a secluded and wonderful retreat atmosphere. First Vows of Brother Alexius, CMRI; Reception of Cassock for New Seminarians; Fatima Conference in Spokane, WA; Moral Theology: Can a Debt Be Outlawed?
September 2019:
This year we celebrate the 30th anniversary of Mater Dei Seminary in Omaha, Nebraska (1989 to 2019). Our seminary was originally located at Mount St. Michael in Spokane, Washington. Over the past 30 years, 27 priests have been ordained at Mater Dei Seminary. On the 24th of August, Rev. Mr. Joseph Pham, originally a Novus Ordo "priest" from Vietnam , was ordained to the diaconate. In a recent issue of The Reign of Mary, Rev. Pham addressed a letter to former diocese explaining why he has chosen to become a traditional Catholic priest and his opposition to the erroneous teachings of Vatican II. He and Rev. Michael Sellner (Minnesota) and Rev. Joseph Appelhanz (Colorado) will be ordained to the priesthood in December. A tribute to Bishop Peter Martin Ngo-Dinh-Thuc, Soldier of Christ. Reflections on the Life of a Seminarian by Abbot Marmion. The Divine Office by a seminarian. Moral Theology: Catholics Assisting at an Invalid Marriage.
August 2019:
July 31 is the feast of St. Ignatius Loyola, founder of the Society of Jesus, which produced so many outstanding missionaries throughout its history, including St. Francis Xavier, Blessed Edmond Campion, Blessed Robert Southwell, St. Isaac Jogues, St. John de Brebeuf and the other North American martyrs, Fr. Marquette, Fr. De Smet, Fr. Caltaldo, Fr. Pointe and Fr. Ravoli. It is truly tragic that this once glorious Catholic order has fallen so low into heresy and apostasy. This is just part of the destruction of Vatican II. Quotations from St. John Vianney, the Patron Saint of Parish Priests. Moral Theology: Preaching the Efficacy of Perfect Contrition.
July 2019:
Summertime events: priests' retreat, religious retreat, summer catechism classes, Confirmations in parishes throughout the Midwest, upcoming summer camps, and our bi-annual priests meetings, which includes reviewing moral and dogmatic theology, canon law, and liturgy. These meetings help to promote unity and charity among the priests, as well as an opportunity to share ideas on how to promote vocations. Monitum from His Excellency: Pastoral Exhortation on Modesty. Moral Theology: Military Activities Contrary to the Law of God.
June 2019:
The dedication of the enlarged Mary Immaculate Queen Church in Rathrum, Idaho, included the blessing of the new large Stations of the Cross, solemn chanting of Vespers, the Blessing of the Church and a Solemn Pontifical High Mass. Located on the same property as the newly dedicated church, which is nestled in mountains of northern Idaho, is St. Joseph’s Minor Seminary. Upcoming ordinations in December to the priesthood of three seminarians. A short article explaining the custom of printing the initials S.A.G. (St. Anthony Guide) on envelopes and packages to be sent through the mail. Moral Theology: Repetition of Viaticum.
May 2019:
Ordinations on the feast of Sts. Philip and James: Ordination to the Diaconate of Rev. Mr. Michael Sellner (Minnesota) and Rev. Mr. Joseph Appelhanz (Colorado); Ordination to the Subdiaconate of Josef Weissensteiner (Austria), Denis McGuire (Connecticut), Carlos Zepeda (Mexico), and Joseph Pham (Vietnam). Three new priests to be ordained on December 12th. Vocations to the seminary and convent; provide students at Mater Dei Academy with Catholic atmosphere. Moral Theology: Oaths in Legal Documents
April 2019:
Comparison of the Passion of Christ with the spiritual passion of the Mystical Body of Christ, the Catholic Church. Our Lord’s warning: strike the shepherd and the sheep will be scattered. Pope Leo XIII also foretold this in his Motu Propio of September 1888. The multiple heresies uttered by Francis I make him a public and manifest heretic and therefore he cannot be a true pope. His recent joint declaration with the Grand Imam Ahmed el-Tayeb and his horrendous Amoris Laetitia are a few examples. By divine law, public, manifest heretics are barred from papal office: Quotations from Popes, Doctors of the Church and Canonists: Moral Theology: Parental Responsibility in Restitution; Restitution to an Insurance Company.
March 2019:
The Novus Ordo Missae: A Striking Departure from Catholic Theology of the Mass as Formulated by Council of Trent: the Ottaviani Intervention: Alfred Card. Ottaviani and Antonio Card. Bacci. 50 Years Since the new “Mass”. The Importance of the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. Moral Theology: It is Forbidden to Refuse the Sacraments on Information Derived from Confession:Priests Engaged in Secular Work
February 2019:
The Major Apparitions of the Blessed Virgin Mary: Our Lady of Lourdes and St. Bernadette; Apostasy through False Council of Vatican II: Spiritual Crucifixion of the Church; Importance of Humility & Devotion to Our Blessed Mother for Perseverance; Moral Theology: Payment of Correct Price & Restitution to an Insurance Company.
January 2019:
Joy at the First Solemn High Masses of our three newly-ordained priests; gratitude for your prayers and support of Mater Dei Seminary. Epiphany season and the importance of cooperating with God’s grace; The Shrine of the Three Kings; Moral Theology: Sunday Morning Confessions.
December 2018:
The feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe: Ordinations of our seminarians by Bishop Martin Davila. Bishop Pivarunas convalesces from recent heart attack. Words of Our Lady of Guadalupe to Juan Diego. Moral Theology: The State’s Rights over private property; Parental responsibility in restitution.
November 2018:
The prophecy of King David concerning the Priesthood of Christ; Psalm 109: Announcement of the Priestly Ordinations of Rev. Mr. Tien Le, Rev. Mr. Jeremy Saunders & Rev. Mr. Stephen Sandquist, as well as the conferral of subdiaconate and minor orders. Congratulations to Bishop Daniel Dolan on 25th Anniversary of Episcopal Consecration: The Dignity and Virginity of the Mother of God excerpts from Father Suarez; Moral Theology: The Freezing of the Sacred Species & Public Mass for Non-Catholics
September 2018:
Thirty years Since the seminary moved from Spokane, Washington, to Omaha, Nebraska; 15 seminarians are in residence and 4 younger men religious are in the Novitiate in Colorado. On Sept. 8, Frater Aloysius Hartman (Arizona) renewed vows for 3 years and Christian Pawloski (Canada) was received as a novice, taking the name of Brother Mary Alexius. Mark Vincent (Idaho) and Clayton Wright (Ohio) entered the CMRI Congregation as postulants. A Priest’s Hands by Fr. Oswald Baker; Moral Theology: The Morality of the Ouija Board.
August 2018:
Recent priests’ meetings in Omaha; 24 Priests in Attendance including Fr. Pio Espina from Argentina: Importance of Maintaining Unity and Providing Mutual Support Among Our Clergy. Two Beautiful Feasts in Honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary; the Assumption and the Immaculate Heart. Powerful Advocate and Intercessor with her Divine Son: The Assumption Proclaimed by Pope Pius XII; The Last Resting Places of the Apostles and Evangelists from Catholic Gems and Pearls: Moral Theology: The Church Fast and the Eucharistic Fast; Immoral Actions of Children
July 2018:
Fr. Gregory Drahman, CMRI celebrates his 25th Anniversary of Ordination to the Priesthood: Rev. Mother Mary Agnes, CMRI celebrates her Golden Jubilee. Events for July include biannual priests’ meeting, boys’ camp, and girls’ camp. 16 seminarians attending this fall and over 20 boarder boys for Mater Dei Academy. Our Lady of Fatima asks us to pray and sacrifice for conversion of sinner. The Pope Speaks: Pope Pius XII on Conscience and Education; Moral Theology: Superstition
June 2018: Every year seminary classes begin on or close to the feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, September 8, a few weeks after Mater Dei Academy classes (K-12 grades) start; Ordinations twice a year at the seminary; on December 12, the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, and again in early May. Annual retreat for priests and religious during the week of the feast of Corpus Christi: end with a Solemn High Mass & procession of the Blessed Sacrament. Most of the seminarians have returned home for the summer; deacons have continued classes in preparation for December ordinations: Joseph Pham, a former Novus Ordo “priest” is joining them as he reviews traditional Catholic course of seminary studies. Prayers for Theresa Sandquist, who has aggressive brain cancer; she is the mother of our deacon, Rev. Stephen Sandquist. Spiritual boost for so many Catholic faithful around the country who visited Mater Dei Seminary this past May for the ordinations. Magnificent choir accompanied the First Solemn High Mass of Fr. Philip Davis, CMRI: a CD of this Mass is now available for sale. Our Lady of Fatima and modesty especially during summer months. Catholic children need to be protected from losing their innonence; St Anthony of Padua; Moral Theology: Aleatory Contracts
May 2018:
Ordinations took place on May 3rd, the Feast of the Finding of the Holy Cross: 12 seminarians advanced to Tonsure, Minor Order, Diaconate, and Priesthood. Frater Aloysius Hartman (Arizona) and Joseph Pham (Vietnam) received First Clerical Tonsure; Denis McGuire (Connecticut) and Carlos Zepeda (Mexico) were ordained to the first two minor orders; Michael Sellner (Minnesota), Joseph Appelhanz (Colorado), Josef Weissensteiner (Austria), & Fray Juan Alberto O.M. Carm. (Mexico) were ordained to the last two minor orders; Rev. Mr. Stephen Sandquist (Nebraska), Rev. Mr. Tien Le (California), & Rev. Mr. Jeremy Saunders (Canada) were ordained to the diaconate,; Fr. Philip Marie Davis, CMRI (Colorado) was ordained to the Holy Priesthood. Solemn Pontifical Mass & Ordinations were about three and a half hours and was accompanied by a magnificent choir. Gratitude for your prayers and support; Moral Theology: Buying and Selling
April 2018:
Upcoming Ordinations on May 3rd: First Tonsure & Minor Orders: Priestly Ordination of Frater Philip Davis, CMRI (Colorado): Ordination to the Diaconate of Rev. Mr. Stephen Sandquist (Nebraska), Rev. Mr. Tien Le (California), & Rev. Mr. Jeremy Saunders (Canada). Many of the Seminarians Traveled to Various Mass Centers Around the Country to Assist Our Priests with beautiful Holy Week Ceremonies: Month of April dedicated to Our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament: Instruments of the Passion at Santa Croce in Gerusalemme in Rome, Italy: Moral Theology: Priests Engaged in Secular Work: Premarital Instruction of a Non- Catholic
March 2018:
Reflections on Holy Week: Goal at Mater Dei is to train the seminarians to be prepared for the ceremonies and comprehend spiritual significance of the sacred liturgy. Old Testament prophecies of Isaias and the Our Lord in His Passion: Statement of Principle: CMRI and the Liturgy of Pope Pius XII; Moral Theology: Choosing a Particular Priest to Officiate at a Marriage Ceremony
February 2018:
The recent passing of the late Bill Hornung from Immaculate Conception in Burlington, Colorado and Raymond Klabenes from St. Theresa’s in O’Neill, Nebraska. Wonderful examples of a truly Christian life. Prayers for the repose of the soul of Thommy Williamitis of St. Theresa’s in Lebanon, Ohio: Reminders that our life on this earth is fragile and that we could be called to eternity when we least expect it. Old Testament Types of Jesus Christ by Fr. Knecht. Moral Theology: Temperance
January 2018:
Priestly ordinations in Guadalajara, Mexico of two Carmelite religious and conferral of first two minor orders to another Carmelite. Beauty and simplicity of their religious life. Spiritual care of the Sisters of the Divine Providence. Sacrament of Confirmation: strong faith and fervor of the Mexican faithful. Upcoming bi-annual priests meeting. 60th anniversary of death of Pope Pius XII: theme for Fatima Conference in October. Arrival of two new seminarians: one a former Novus Ordo priest who has realized invalidity of his orders. Moral Theology: Remote Preparation for Marriage
December 2017:
Photos of Recent Ordinations on the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Dec. 12th at Mary Immaculate Catholic Church: Pontifical High Mass. Fr. Kyrssov (Russia), Fr. Heyne (Germany), Fr. Gilchrist (Australia) and 17 Other Priests From Around the USA were Present for the Occasion. First Solemn High Mass of Rev. Fr. Augustine Walz (Wisconsin) Offered on Feast of St. Lucy. Promotion of Vocations to the Priesthood and Religious Life. Moral Theology: Sanctification of Feasts
November 2017:
Upcoming Ordinations on Dec. 12th at Mary Immaculate Catholic Church: Preparations for Retreat. Remembrance in Your Prayers for our Seminarians: 30th Anniversary of Mater Dei Academy. Reflection upon the Four Last Things: Why Do We Pray For the Dead? Moral Theology: The Virtue of Veracity
October 2017:
100th Anniversary of Our Lady’s Apparitions at Fatima: We Must Live the Message of Our Lady. Daily Rosary, Prayer and Sacrifice for Poor Sinners. Importance of Modesty in Dress and Behavior: the Great Apostasy and Crisis in the Church. Christopher Columbus: Devout Catholic, Great Discoverer. Moral Theology: The Effects of the Mass: Mass Stipends
September 2017:
Seminarians and boarder boys witness total eclipse of the sun: Reminder of the wonderful world the good God has created: August 5, the feast of Our Lady of the Snow, Brother Aloysius Hartman, CMRI took his first vows as a religious and Brother Louis Marie, CMRI (Christopher Peck of Indiana) became a novice brother. Denis McGuire (Connecticut) recieved the Clerical Tonsure on August 16, feast of St. Joachim. Mater Dei Seminary begins its 28th year of classes on September 8. Prayer of St. Michael the Archangel composed by Pope Leo XIII. Moral Theology: Injustice in Reference to Intermediate Goods.
August 2017:
Consecration of our parishes to the Immaculate Heart of Mary: Act of Consecration for those who wish to join with our priests: consecrate your families. Message of Our Lady of Fatima: 117 girls in attendance for girls’ camp followed by 41 boys for boys’ camp: biannual priests’ meeting. Final vows of two religious seminarians- Frater Augustine Walz (Wisconsin) and Frater Philip Davis (Colorado). Moral Theology: Buying and Selling
July 2017:
St. Maria Goretti, example for our Catholic youth: Our Lady’s words at Fatima during July apparition: Boys’ and Girls’ Camps: Biannual Priests’ Meeting. The Harmony and Consistency of the Teaching of the Catholic Church on Baptism of Desire. Origin of St. Anthony Guide. Moral Theology: Sharing Our Good Works, Especially Holy Communion, With Others: Eucharistic Fast
June 2017:
Public chanting of the Litany of the Saints; Novena in preparation for feast of Pentecost. Importance of prayer especially in the life of priests and seminarians: Upcoming priest and religious retreat. Words of Wisdom from the Golden Rule or the Book for All: St. Thomas Aquinas on the Feast of Corpus Christi. Moral Theology: The Virtue of Piety.
May 2017:
Ordinations at Mater Dei Seminary took place on May 11th, the Feast of Sts. Philip and James. Bestowal of the first clerical tonsure and investiture with the surplice. The conferral of the minor orders of exorcist and acolyte. The major orders of the subdiaconate and the diaconate. Moral Theology: Drunkenness, a sin against sobriety.
April 2017:
Easter greetings: Holy Week ceremonies: Palm Sunday, the chanting of Tenebrae, Mass of the Chrism with blessing of Holy Oils, Mass of the Last Supper with washing of feet, sacred liturgy on Good Friday, and Easter Vigil. Liturgical training for seminarians as future priests. Upcoming bestowal of clerical tonsure and major and minor orders. April the month of the Blessed Sacrament. Church blessing in Harmony, MN on the feast of St. Joseph. Josef Weissenteiner recieves the minor orders of porter and lector. Moral Theology: Hearing Mass over the Radio.
March 2017:
Visit of Josef Weissensteiner, our Austrian seminarian studying under Fr. Abrahamovicz. Ordination to the minor orders of Porter and Lector. Update on our missions in the Philippines and assistance of these missions through the St. Francis Xavier Missionary Fund. Upcoming blessing of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Harmony, MN on the feast of St. Joseph. Prayers for Vocations. A review of the Catholic teaching on baptism of blood and desire. Moral Theology: The Virtue of Abstinence.
February 2017:
Prayers for the repose of the soul of Walter Anthony Pivarunas, the father of the bishop. Requiem Mass and funeral ceremonies in Chicago: buried at St. Casimir Lithuanian Catholic Cemetery. Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes: new seminarian from Canada, Christian Pawlowski, is received as a CMRI postulant. Formation of a house of study in Colorado for religious seminarians. Three young ladies received as novice sisters into the Congregation of the Mother of God (CMD). Fr. Leo Heinrichs, the martyr of Denver. Moral Theology: Mass Stipends.
January 2017:
Pastoral visit to Guadalajara: recent ordinations to major and minor orders of Carmelite religious. Conference on religious life: the Sisters of the Divine Providence. Administration of the Sacrament of Confirmation. Observations on the tilma of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Upcoming bi-annual priests’ meeting. Moral Theology: Gifts on the Occasion of an Invalid Marriage; the Special Efficacy of a High Mass.
December 2016:
Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe; ordinations to minor orders (Stephen Sandquist, Tien Le, Jeremy Saunders, Bradley Parker, Frater Philip Davis, CMRI) and subdiaconate (Frater Augustine Walz, CMRI). Moral Theology: Catholic Baptism; Church Fast and the Eucharistic Fast.
November 2016:
Recent Fatima Conference: Bishop Davila and some of the Trento priests visit to celebrate the Silver Jubilee of Bishop Pivarunas. Fr. Alexander Kryssov visits seminary and gives conference on ecclesiastical history. Upcoming ordinations to minor and major orders on Dec. 12th. St. Francis Xavier Misson Fund. Review of Pope Pius XI’s Encyclical on Atheistic Communism. Moral Theology: Quantity of Wine for Mass; Preservation of Altar Breads.
October 2016:
25th anniversary of the ordinations of Fr. Gerard McKee, CMRI, Fr. Daniel Perez, Fr. James Thielen, and also of the death of Bishop Moises Carmona. St. Therese Church in O’Neill, Nebraska, celebrates its 25th anniversary. Conciliar Church to celebrate 500th anniversary of the Protestant Reformation. A few of the heretical and blasphemous quotes of Martin Luther. Moral Theology: Restitution Because of Damnification.
September 2016:
25th anniversary of the consecration of Bishop Mark Pivarunas, CMRI, to the episcopacy; Bishop Carmona’s letter offering to consecrate a CMRI priest; election of Bishop Pivarunas and his curriculum vitae; explanation of his coat of arms. Moral Theology: Requirements to be a sponsor for Baptism.
August 2016:
25th anniversary of the blessing of Mary Immaculate Church in Omaha; biannual priests’ meeting, CMRI priests’ Diet; feasts of martyrs in August. Moral Theology: Validity of Confession; Imposing a Merely Internal Work as Penance.
July 2016:
Fr. Nino Molina returns from Philippines; Fra. Alphonsus Maria, CMRI, renews his vows; first Solemn High Mass of Fr. Timothy Geckle; Fra. Francis Crawford, CMRI, chanted the Gospel for the first time. The Pope Speaks: Excerpts from Cux Ex Apostolatus. Moral Theology: Separation of Siamese Twins; Representations of the Sacred Heart.
June 2016:
Ordinations at Mater Dei Seminary: Fr. Timothy Geckle is ordained to the priesthood. Also Frater Francis Crawford received the Diaconate, Frater Augustine Walz received the Minor Order of Acolyte, and five seminarians receive Clerical Tonsure. Moral Theology: Proximate Matter of Baptism; How Soon Must Infants Be Baptized?
May 2016:
From the Rector: St. Joseph and Vocations. The Authenticity of St. Mark’s Gospel Proved by the Dead Sea Scrolls - by a Seminarian. Moral Theology: Hearing Mass Over the Radio.
April 2016:
From the Rector: Upcoming ordinations in May; blessing of new church in Salem, New Hampshire; April, Month of the Blessed Sacrament. Photos of Holy Week at Mary Immaculate Church in Omaha; blessing of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Salem, New Hampshire; Mater Dei Academy archery team. Moral Theology: Purpose of Amendment.
March 2016:
From the Rector: St. Joseph and Vocations. The Authenticity of St. Mark’s Gospel Proved by the Dead Sea Scrolls - by a Seminarian. Moral Theology: Hearing Mass Over the Radio.
February 2016:
From the Rector: Thoughts on the Holy Season of Lent. The Authenticity of St. Mark’s Gospel Proved by the Dead Sea Scrolls - by a Seminarian. On Fostering Vocations to the Priesthood - Pope Pius XI. Moral Theology: Surgery for the Healthy.
January 2016:
The blessings of Christmas (Christ + Mass) for a priest; Letter of the Coeur d’Alene Indians to Pope Pius IX. Moral Theology: Funeral Services for an Unbaptized Infant; Confessins of Sins Committed Before Baptism.
December 2015:
Photos of ordination of Rev. Fr. Robert Letourneau to the ordination and of Frater Francis Crawford, CMRI, to the subdiaconate. Moral Theology: Viaticum to a Child; Permission to Use Confessional Knowledge.
November 2015:
Letter from the Rector - upcoming ordinations on Dec. 12, comments on the “papal” visit of Francis and the Synod on the Family. Photos of blessing of St. Theresa’s Church in Maine. Definition of a Priest. Why Do We Pray for the Dead? by Fr. John A. O’Brien. Moral Theology: Confession of Theft, Dispositions of Penitent.
October 2015:
Letter from the Rector - Reflections on the Patroness of Mater Dei Seminary, Mary, the Mother of God. St. Therese of Lisieux, Excerpts from Her Writings. What Popes Say About the Rosary. Moral Theology: Confirmation of a Retarded Child.
September 2015:
26th year of classes at Mater Dei Seminary begins; blessing of Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Rosamond, California. Apocalypse of St. John - Excerpts from a Commentary by Rev. E. Syvester Berry, 1921. Moral Theology: Conditions for an Indulgence, Permission to Substitute the Scapular Medal for the Cloth Scapular.
August 2015:
Bi-annual priests’ meetings; summer camps for children; blessing of the new school in Burlington, Colorado; preparing for the new academic year for both school and seminary. St. Philomena, Virgin and Martyr. Moral Theology: Disposal of the Poor Box Receipts, Disappearance of Library Books.
July 2015:
Upcoming bi-annual priests’ meetings; priests in other countries; commenting on the Supreme Court’s decision on gay “marriage” and the Synod on the Family. Constantine’s Gift of the Lateran Palace to the Pope. Moral Theology: Marriage at Mass Prescribed, Interference in a Proposed Marriage.
June 2015:
Seminary year comes to an end; cosmology in practice at the seminary; Corpus Christi, Minor Orders, First Vows of Bro. Alphonsus Maria, CMRI. The Final Resting Place of St. Peter (from A Pilgrim Walks in Rome by P. J. Chandlery, S.J.). Moral Theology: Dishonesty in a Public Employee.
May 2015:
Minor orders and commencement ceremonies as the scholastic and school years come to an end at Mater Dei Seminary and Mater Dei Academy; groundbreaking for new school in Burlington; Fr. Nino Molina returns to Philippines; celebration of the 25th anniversary of ordination to the priesthood of Fr. Ephrem Marie, Cordova, CMRI. Moral Theology: Preaching the Efficacy of Perfect Contrition, Attendance at Billy Graham’s Services.
April 2015:
Visit from Fr. Floriano Abrahamowicz; Josef Weissensteiner (Italy) receives Clerical Tonsure; upcoming ordination to the diaconate of Rev. Timothy Geckle (Ohio) and Rev. Robert Letourneau (Boston). Photos: group photo of Fr. Floriano Abrahamowicz and new cleric, Josef Weissensteiner; first vows of CMD Sisters. The Last Resting-Places of the Apostles and Evangelists. Moral Theology: Problem on the Eucharistic Fast; The Purpose of Amendment.
March 2015:
March 12 is the 25th anniversary of ordination to the priesthood of Fr. Ephrem Marie, Cordova, CMRI; recent deaths of Dr. Patrick Hughes, MD — the father of Fr. Benedict Hughes, CMRI, and Fr. Brendan Hughes, CMRI); and also the loss of Mrs. Emily Radecki — the mother of Fr. Francisco Radecki, CMRI and Fr. Dominic Radecki, CMRI; upcoming ordinations, CMD Sisters’ vows, groundbreaking of new school; March, the month of St. Joseph. Your Cross by St. Francis de Sales; A Masterpiece of Craftsmanship (St. Joseph’s Stairs in New Mexico) by a seminarian. Moral Theology: The Precious Five-Dollar Bill.
February 2015:
Candlemas ceremonies; seminarians prepare for Pontifical High Mass of Ash Wednesday; practices for the solemn liturgies of Holy Week; pious practices to help keep the spirit of Lent. Acquisition of Statue of St. Philomena. Excerpts from The Life of Father Pro by Rev. M.D. Forrest, M.S.C. Moral Theology: The Absolution of a Recidivist; An Inheritance for Masses.
January 2015:
Pontifical High Mass on the Feast of the Epiphany (photo); comments on the “Synod on the Family”; radical statements and actions of Francis make universal apostasy more apparent; upcoming biannual priests’ meeting in Spokane; imitating the Holy Magi. Photos of recent ordinations, First Vows of Brother Thomas Lawrence, CMRI. Moral Theology: Frequent Communion of the Sick; Obligation to Hear a Complete Mass.
December 2015:
Our newly acquired church, St. Mary’s in Rockville, Nebraska; Indulgences — Our Hidden Treasures. Moral Theology: Sunday Morning Confessions.
November 2014:
The high altar at St. Mary’s in Rockville, Nebraska (photo); renovation and solemn blessing of our newly acquired church in Rockville; considerations for the holy season of Advent. St. Francis Xavier Patron Saint of Foreign Missions. Moral Theology: Dispensation of a Deacon.
October 2014:
Ordination of Rev. Timothy Geckle to the Diaconate; The Life of St. Gabriel, Passionist. Moral Theology: Honesty in Sports.
September 2014:
The Vocation to the Priesthood; The Life of St. Gabriel, Passionist. Moral Theology: Honesty in Sports.
August 2014:
The feasts of the Assumption and the Immaculate Heart of Mary; photos of the blessing of St. Theresa Church in Lebanon, Ohio, the girls’ summer camp. Moral Theology: Choosing a Particular Priest to Officiate at a Wedding.
July 2014:
Silver Jubilee of the ordination of Fr. Brendan Hughes, CMRI; Excerpts from Pastoral Letter “Modesty in Dress.” Moral Theology: Preparing for the Worst.
June 2014:
The Gifts of the Holy Ghost; Clerical Tonsure, Triennial Vows, Reception of Habit; St. Thomas Aquinas on the Feast of Corpus Christi. Moral Theology: Assistance at Mass in the “Crying Room,” Sunday Observance.
May 2014:
An explanation of first clerical tonsure; photos of Holy Week, Rosary procession, graduates of Mater Dei Academy, Mater Dei Archery team wins state championship. Moral Theology: Conditional Baptism of Dying Non-Catholics.
April 2014:
The ordinations of Fr. Anthony Short, CMRI, and Fr. Nino Molina at Mater Dei Seminary on the feast of the Annunciation, March 25, 2014. Moral Theology: Drinking Cocoa on a Fast Day; A Malted Milk or Milk Shake on a Fast Day.
March 2014:
Comments on the recent statements of Bergoglio; The Martyr of Denver: Fr. Leo Heinrichs. Moral Theology: A Forgotten Sin.
February 2014:
Comments on the recent scandalous statements of Bergoglio; The Martyr of Denver: Fr. Leo Heinrichs. Moral Theology: A Forgotten Sin.
January 2014:
The faith of the Magi; the feast of the Purification; a contemporary miracle (the incorrupt body of St. Bernardette). Moral Theology: The Occult Reception of the Sacraments; An Invalidly Married Teacher.
December 2013:
Bishop Pivarunas visits Guadalajara, Mexico, to ordain two clerics to the holy priesthood; photos of religious communities in Mexico; Rev. Mr. Timothy Geckle is ordained to the subdiaconate at Mater Dei Seminary; Moral Theology: Coeducation in Catholic Schools; The Recipient of an Anonymous Letter.
November 2013:
The custom of praying for the faithful departed; St. Francis Xavier, Patron of Foreign Missions. Moral Theology: Computation of Time, Souvenirs from Restaurants.
October 2013:
Progress of the seminarians of Mater Dei Seminary; photos of seminarians, students of Mater Dei Academy, four postulants of the Sisters of the Congregation of the Mother of God. The History of Today’s Calendar. Moral Theology: Public Mass or Non-Catholics; Freezing of the Sacred Species.
September 2013:
Upcoming ordinations on December 8 and March 25; the care and formation of seminarians entrusted to the Mother of God, the Patroness of our seminary; The Colosseum, or Flavian Amphitheatre by P.J. Chandlery, S.J. Moral Theology: Publication of the Collection; Medicine before Holy Communion.
May 2013:
The end of another scholastic year for our seminary and academy; on May 19 our four novice brothers: Brother Augustine Walz (Wisconsin), Brother Philip Davis (Colorado), Brother Jerome Williams (Ohio), and Brother Francis Crawford (California) to take their first vows of Poverty, Chastity, and Obedience as religious; Bishop travels to Australia. Excerpts from the Fathers of the Church on the Holy Eucharist. Moral Theology: Mass without a chalice; use of the faculty of bination.
April 2013:
Reflections on the Blessed Sacrament, lack of belief in the Novus Ordo services, Holy Week at Mater Dei Seminary. Moral Theology: Holy Communion for the Nurse; Viaticum Under the Species of Wine.
March 2013
Ordinations in Mexico; the traditional Catholic movement in Mexico. An excerpt from The Path of Mary by Mother Mary Potter on the perilous trials facing the faithful. Moral Theology: The Rectory Dog.
February 2013
Biannual priests’ at Mount St. Michael; Final Vows of Fr. Bernard Welp, CMRI; First Clerical Tonsure of Robert Letourneau; upcoming Silver Jubilee of Ordination of Fr. Dominic Radecki, CMRI, and Fr. Francisco Radecki, CMRI. “The Infant of Prague” by a Seminarian; “Your Cross,” by St. Francis de Sales. Moral Theology: Courtship Before the Declaration of Nullity; Instructions on Modesty in Dress.
January 2013
With the November elections now behind us, there are many serious problems which face our country and give us reason to pray for the conversion of our nation. The real solution is to be found not in men but in God...
December 2012
Ordinations at Mater Dei Seminary on December 12, the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe: Fr. Carlos Borja (Oklahoma) was ordained to the holy priesthood; Rev. Frater Anthony Short, CMRI (Colorado), Rev. Mr. Nino Molino (Philippines) and Rev. Mr. Jorje Linera (Argentina) were ordained deacons; Frater Michael Geckle (Ohio) received the minor orders of Porter and Lector. Moral Theology: Special Efficacy of a High Mass; the Admission of Married Persons to the Religious Life.
November 2012
With the November elections now behind us, there are many serious problems which face our country and give us reason to pray for the conversion of our nation. The real solution is to be found not in men but in God...
October 2012
Reflections on the Divine Maternity of the Blessed Virgin Mary; blessing of Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church in Seneca, Wisconsin; “Who has a vocation to the religious life?”; Moral Theology: The Precious Five-Dollar Bill, Cheating in Schools and Colleges.
September 2012
The North American Martyrs; Necessity of Order in the Seminary; Errors of Modern Conciliar Church Condemned by Past Popes; Moral Theology questions: Flour for Altar Breads.
August 2012
Reflections on the Assumption; Assumption Prayer Composed by Pope Pius XII; Moral Theology questions: Oaths in Legal Documents.
July 2012
Our Lady of Fatima’s July apparition; comments on the SSPX negotiations; 17th annual girls’s camp attended by 100 girls; One Reason for Differences among Traditional Catholics; Moral Theology questions: The Morality of a Kidney Transplantation.
June 2012
Priests’ retreat and Corpus Christi at Mater Dei Seminary, graduation at Mater Dei Academy, blessing of Mary Help of Christians Church in Colorado Springs, Colorado; Moral Theology questions: Conscientious Ballplayer; Falsehoods by One in Authority.
May 2012
Ordinations on May 11 - Rev. Mr. Carlos Borja is ordained to the Diaconate, Rev. Mr. Nino Molinos is ordained to the Subdiaconate, and Frater Michael Geckle receives the clerical tonsure. On May 13, four young men were received into the CMRI novitiate in Omaha: Brother Augustine Marie (Michael Walz), Brother Francis Maria (Dominic Crawford), Brother Philip Marie (Jonathan Davis), Brother Mary Jerome (Nathan Williams). Moral Theology questions: Missing Sunday Mass for Vacation, Work on a Holyday in a Catholic Institution
April 2012
Photos of Holy Week and Easter at Mater Dei Seminary; Moral Theology: Holy Communion for the Mentally Retarded Child
March 2012
Comparing St. Patrick’s Missionary Zeal to the False Ecumenism of the Modern “Catholic Church”; Photos of Bro. Xavier’s Pilgrimage to Rome and Portugal; Moral Theology: Friday Dinner with Non-Catholics; Whale on Friday
February 2012
Description of Mater Dei Seminary; Life of St. Gabriel, Passionist; Moral Theology: The Way of the Cross; The Pastor and Invalidly Married Parishoners
January 2012
Reflecting upon the Journey of the Magi; the Last Resting Places of the Apostles and Evangelists; the Shrine of the Three Kings in Cologne, Germany; Moral Theology: Prizefighting and Boxing; The Physician’s Professional Secret
December 2011
His Excellency's trip to Argentina to administer Confirmation; Minor Orders and the Subdiaconate conferred on the feast of the Immaculate Conception. Moral Theology: Publication of the Collection; the Rights of a Religious
November 2011
Bro. Aloysius Maria, CMRI, is received into the novitiate; Bishop travels to Europe to administer Confirmations in Germany and England; Frater Anthony, CMRI, and Carlos Borja to receive the Subdiaconate, Creagh Goble and Nino Molina to receive the last two Minor Orders on December 8. Moral Theology: Ministrations to a Divorced Man
October 2011
Mater Dei Seminary celebrates its titular feast on the feast of the Divine Maternity; the Council of Ephesus and the condemnation of Nestorius; Jon Davis (Colorado) and Nathan Williams (Nebraska), our newest seminarians, are received as CMRI postulants; Encomium on the Mother of God delivered by St. Cyril of Alexandria at the Council of Ephesus. Moral Theology: How Early in an Illness may there be Anointing of the Sick?
September 2011
Beginning of new school year for students and 21st scholastic year for Mater Dei Seminary; Bro. Pius Maria, CMRI, is received into the novitiate; two postulants are received, and one more novice and one more postulant to be received within a few weeks. Assessment of the Assisi Meetings by Bishop Pivarunas; Moral Theology: Country or Conscience?
August 2011
Fr. Michael Sauntner, OSB, of Christ the King Abbey has disassociated himself from the Conciliar Church and is now affiliated with the Congregation of Mary Immaculate Queen (CMRI); First Vows of Bro. Michael Maria, CMRI; Addressing objections to sedevacantism by Julio Pro, MD..; Moral Theology Column: Public Mass for non-Catholics; Mass for an Excommunicated Person
July 2011
Bishop Pivarunas ordains Fr. Brendan Legg and Fr. Michael Oswalt to the holy priesthood; eighteen priests assist in the ceremony; Moral Theology Column: Vitamin Pills and the Eucharistic Fast
June 2011
A SSPX priest completely rejects the modern Church, discovers the many traditional Catholic churches and schools (sedevacantist) in the U.S.; Tonsure and Minor Orders on the Feast of Ss. Philip and James; Moral Theology Column: Questions on the Eucharistic Fast
May 2011
Minor Orders, betrayal at Christ the King Monastery after Abbot Giardina’s death, Holy Week ceremonies; Moral Theology - Bathing Beauty Contests / Cheerleading
April 2011
Prophecies of the Messias in the Lenten liturgy; comments on 25th anniversary of the Assisi meeting; ordination of Rev. Mr. Michael Oswalt to the diaconate; Mater Dei Academy in the state archery competition; Miraculous Staircase of St. Joseph (A Masterpiece of Craftsmanship); Moral Theology - Flour for Altar Breads
March 2011
The Holy Season of Lent and Fasting; Life of St. Patrick; Moral Theology - Freezing of the Sacred Species; Revival of Extreme Unction
February 2011
Rev. Mr. Brendan Legg and Rev. Mr. Michael Oswalt to be ordained June 26; upcoming Silver Jubilee of Ordination of Fr. Casimir Puskorius, CMRI; recommendation of Mario Derksen's defense of Archbishop Thuc’s consecrations (see www.ThucBishops.com); Fr. Luis Jurado back from Argentina; St. Charles Borromeo, Patron of Seminarians; Moral Theology - The Pastor and Invalidly Married Parishioners; Falsehoods by One in Authority
January 2011
Ordinations to Diaconate of Mr. Brandon Legg and to the Subdiaconate of Mr. Michael Oswalt; St. Ambrose’s discourse on St. Agnes; Moral Theology - Grouping of Mass Stipends; Two Stipends on Sunday?
December 2010
Letter from the Rector: Christmas wishes and prayers; Our Lady of Guadalupe, advancement of seminarians, recently-departed friends, good news regarding Fr. Jurado’s visa
Moral Theology: Obligation of Weekday Mass; Ciborium instead of Chalice
November 2010
Letter from the Rector: schools and vocations
Moral Theology: Baptismal record of an illegitimate child; Record of Private Baptism
October 2010
Letter from the Rector: Clerical Tonsure bestowed on Michael Oswalt; Fatima Conference; the gift of Jacinta Marto’s rosary
Christopher Columbus
Moral Theology: Missing Sunday Mass for Vacation; Violation of an Oath
September 2010
Letter from the Rector: Beginning the seminary’s new scholastic year
North American Martyrs
A Seminarian’s first effort at chanting at a public liturgy
Moral Theology: Catholics Assisting at an Invalid Marriage
August 2010
Letter from the Rector: Thoughts on St. John Vianney, Patron of Parish Priests
Moral Theology: Loot from Abroad
July 2010
Letter from the Rector: 25th Anniversary of Priesthood, Fr. Jurado’s visa, upcoming school year and scholastic year
The Precious Blood of Jesus
Moral Theology: The Machine and Servile Work; Payment of Correct Price
* Newsletters from 2009 to June 2010 will be added as time allows.
May 2009
Letter from the Rector: Spring at Mater Dei Seminary. Moral Theology: The Body as the Temple of the Holy Ghost, Authority of the Church over the Unbaptized.
April 2009
Letter from the Rector: the Resurrection of Our Lord as the very foundation of Christianity; Our Lord’s many prophecies of His Passion. Photos: Holy Week at Mater Dei Seminary. Moral Theology: Marriage at Mass Prescribed, Permission to Substitute the Scapular Medal for the Cloth Scapular.
March 2009
Letter from the Rector: Meditation on the Passion, studying the Holy Shroud of Turin; Old Testament Prophecies on the Sufferings of the Messias. Moral Theology: Conditional Administration of Sacraments
February 2009
Letter from the Rector: on the “lifting” of the excommunications of the bishops of the SSPX; Archbishop Lefebvre’s vacillating statements; contradictory theology of the SSPX and its erroneous concept of the Papacy.
A Message from Fr. Alexander Kryssov (Moscow, Russia)
Life of St. Gabriel, Passionist, by Fr. James McGilloway, CMRI
Moral Theology: Difficulties about Extreme Unction
January 2009
Letter from the Rector: A review of major events of 2008; concerns for 2009
A letter from Fr. Alexander Kryssov (Moscow, Russia)
Moral Theology: Holy Communion for the nurse; a Catholic baptism
December 2008
Letter from the Rector: Greetings for the Feast of the Nativity; the Cave of the Nativity in Bethlehem; relic of the Crib in St. Mary Major in Rome; confirmations in Argentina and Brazil.
Moral Theology: Which debt should be paid? and the disposal of poor box receipts
November 2008
Letter from the Rector: October ordinations of Fr. Alexander Kryssov and Fr. Bernard Welp, CMRI, whose mother died three weeks after her son's ordination.
Ordination photos
Moral Theology: validity of confession; vocalizing the sacramental penance
October 2008
Pope Pius XII: 50th Anniversary of Death
Moral Theology: frequent Communion of the sick
September 2008
Letter from the Rector: Trip to journey with Fr. Casimir Puskorius to administer the Sacraments; expansion of Mater Dei Academy; new novice Brother to be received; new seminary year of study begins. Samson, the new calf.
Moral Theology: Catholic Baptism of child of Protestant parents?
August 2008
Letter from the Rector: Dedication of Our Lady of the Snow Church in Denver, Colorado; upcoming feasts of Our Lady, school year beginning soon. New addition: Isabella the cow; Brothers get time off to fish
Moral Theology: Missing Sunday Mass for vacation; working on holydays in a Catholic institution.
July 2008
Letter from the Rector: Dedication of Mary Help of Christians Church in Fountain, Colorado; upcoming events — girls’ summer camp; bi-annual priests’ meeting.
Moral Theology: Exceptions from general rules of the Ritual in times of great emergency (enemy attack, particularly atomic weapons)
June 2008
Letter from the Rector: Pastoral Visits during Summer, Confirmations, July Priests’ Meetings
Moral Theology: Non-Catholic Funerals in Church, Insurance of Religious Property
May 2008
Letter from the Rector: Recent ordinations to the Diaconate and Minor Orders, Priests’ Annual Retreat, New Novice Brother to be received July 2, Upcoming Priestly Ordinations on October 7 at Mount St. Michael, Adjusting Travel of Priests Due to Gas Prices, Reminders about Modesty
Photos of First Clerical Tonsure Ceremonies
Clerical Tonsure (Article by L. Bacuez, S. S.)
Moral Theology: How Soon is Quam Primum? (Baptism of Infants quam primum — as soon as possible); The Confessions of Sins Committed Before Baptism
April 2008
Letter from the Rector: Fr. Julian Gilchrist to return to New Zealand, Rev. Mr. Alexander Kryssov to be ordained to the diaconate
Photos of Holy Week ceremonies
Moral Theology: Obligations of a Condemned Criminal; Sterilization of the Insane
March 2008
Letter from the Rector: Holy Week, new churches purchased in Colorado, upcoming ordinations
Old Testament Types of Jesus Christ
Moral Theology: The Occult Reception of the Sacraments; An Invalidly Married Teacher
February 2008
Letter from the Rector: References to the Blessed Trinity in the Old Testament
A Contemporary Miracle (The Incorrupt Body of St. Bernadette) by Fr. Gregory Drahman, CMRI
Moral Theology: Contributing to a Protestant Church; Attending Protestant Services with a Fiance
January 2008
Letter from the Rector: New Seminarians, Chair of Unity Octave, Immigration Difficulties for Fr. Gilchrist
The Presentation of Jesus in the Temple by a Seminarian
The History of Today's Calendar by a Seminarian
Moral Theology: Permission to Use Confessional Knowledge; A Spiritual Director’s Obligation of Secrecy
December 2007
Letter from the Rector: Prophecies of the Coming of the Savior; Marian Feasts during Advent
Commentaries on the Apocalypse of St. John
Moral Theology: The Transfer of a Clergy Book; The Disappearance of Library Books
November 2007
Letter from the Rector: Mr. Randy Welp Received as Novice
Commentaries on the Apocalypse of St. John
Moral Theology: Payment of Correct Price; Disposal of a Collection
October 2007
Letter from the Rector: Mr. Randy Welp Received as Novice
Commentaries on the Apocalypse of St. John
Moral Theology: Payment of Correct Price; Disposal of a Collection
September 2007
Letter from the Rector: CMRI and Mt. St. Michael not in crisis
Moral Theology: Cooperation in Hysterectomy; The Absolution of a Recidivist
August 2007
Letter from the Rector: Ordinations and Vows in Guadalajara
Moral Theology: Holy Communion for a Mentally-Retarded Child
July 2007
Letter from the Rector: Priests’ Annual Retreat, Comments on Motu Proprio
Moral Theology: A Spiritual Director’s Obligation of Secrecy