News

Manitowoc area Catholics welcome Bp. Zubik

By Jeff Kurowski
Compass Assistant Editor

"No, not at all, I'm just getting started!"

That's how Bp. David Zubik responded when asked if he was feeling the effects of his busy schedule.

Bp. Zubik kicked off a week of diocesan regional visits on Monday in Manitowoc. In addition to familiarizing himself with schools, healthcare facilities, ministries and programs, and meeting thousands of Catholics, he hopes to open himself up to the people of the diocese.

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"I want to give them a nice snapshot of who I am," said Bp. Zubik. "I want the people connecting with me to invest some trust in me and trust in the church. I'm looking forward to the joy of getting to know them."

A group of students representing various programs and organizations greeted Bp. Zubik at Roncalli High School, his first stop. His visit included tours of the weight room, chapel and fine arts facilities.

"It seems like he has a real positive outlook on Catholic education," said junior Matt Hanson, the school's drum major who represented the fine arts programs. "He asked good, probing questions. He has such an outgoing personality, and you feel that he genuinely cares."

Hanson invited Bp. Zubik to Roncalli's spring theatrical production, "Children of Eden," but the bishop plans to return to the school even sooner. In February, he hopes to get feedback from a group of students.

"I've learned a lot from young people throughout the years," he said to the teens. "I would really like to pick your brains, and you can pick mine too."

"I feel honored that our thoughts are important to him and are going to make a difference," said Hanson. "He's very receptive."

"He sounded like he had a genuine interest in the school," said junior Mina Farahzad, student commissioner for spiritual life at Roncalli. "He's cool. I could hang out with him."

The new bishop's visit was uplifting for an area where Catholic schools are struggling, said Br. Roger Betzold, FSC, principal at Roncalli.

"We have high unemployment," he said. "It's a shrinking population base. Obviously, there are financial issues with the parishes and the schools, so we are looking for a shot in the arm."

"Hopefully, Bp. Zubik can get people excited about Catholic education and to understand that these kids are our future," he continued. "Our enrollment is down and the numbers are down at the elementary schools. The future of the church is sitting right here. If we don't get them interested and keep them interested, and provide for some lay leadership, it will continue to go down."

Bp. Zubik, a graduate of Catholic grade and high schools, a Catholic college and a former Catholic high school vice principal, blessed the students before departing. The blessing left a lasting impression, said senior Matt Cashman, student council president.

"He took the time to pray with us, to bless us and showed that he still really cares about that simple aspect of everyone's everyday faith life," he said.

Bp. Zubik's Manitowoc schedule also included stops at St. Francis de Sales School, Catholic Charities and St. Mary's Home.

Jack Gospodarek, administrator at St. Mary's Home, a senior living community, said he looked forward to an up-close look at the new leader of the Church of Green Bay.

"It's not only interesting to understand his philosophy as the bishop, but also to get to know him as a person," said Gospodarek.

Finances continue to pose the greatest challenge for healthcare ministries including St. Mary's Home, Felician Village and Sacred Heart Court, all sponsored by the Felician Sisters.

"It's mostly challenges with financial reimbursements," said Gospodarek. "I have that operational responsibility to support the mission of the Felician Sisters, and it's difficult because state reimbursement is not adequate to cover the care. It's important for the bishop to understand these challenges and to help us in any way he can."

Bp. Zubik toured St. Mary's Home, greeting staff and residents.

"I didn't expect to take him around and meet as many people as he did," said Gospodarek. "He strikes me as a very outgoing individual and his energy and enthusiasm are remarkable. I'm sure the place is abuzz with excitement."

"This is special for me," said Bp. Zubik. "I was first taught by the Felician Sisters, so I feel that I already have a connection here."

Bp. Zubik met with Manitowoc area clergy before celebrating Mass at Holy Innocents Church. He continued to meet area Catholics at a reception following Mass. The new bishop is not the only one making a strong impression.

"I cannot begin to express my gratitude," said Bp. Zubik. "Everybody, everywhere has been so welcoming, not just the Catholics, but the secular community as well. I cannot thank everyone enough."