The Compass

Retired priests keep tradition of playing German card game alive

GREEN BAY — Ramsch, Graandouvert, Tourne, Null. Unless you're familiar with Skat, these terms are as foreign as this card game's German origins.

Two retired priests of the Green Bay Diocese are aficionados of Skat, which was invented in the town of Altenburg, Germany, around 1810. Fr. William Rickert and Fr. Leander Nickel have been playing the game since their seminary days more than 65 years ago. They're the last of a once-copious legion of priest-Skat players who gathered in rectories and church halls, hunched over card tables sharing laughs and card-dealing duties.

OSHKOSH — As this Ash Wednesday began Lent, it also began the first full day of perpetual prayer before the Blessed Sacrament here. The city-wide perpetual adoration chapel, located at the St. Mary site of Most Blessed Sacrament Parish, opened after a 6:30 p.m. Mass on Feb. 16.

Bishop David Ricken will dedicate the chapel with a 7 p.m. Mass on March 9.

Fr. Ron Rolheiser will address parish staff and volunteers March 4-6

ALLOUEZ — If you want to know about Lent, then read the story of Cinderella.

That's the advice of Fr. Ron Rolheiser, president of the Oblate School of Theology in San Antonio and a Compass columnist. He will be the main speaker at the Green Bay Diocese TEAM Days and Team Saturday, March 4 to 6. TEAM Days are days of reflection offered for parish staff and volunteers engaged in pastoral ministry. Team Saturday is aimed at all parish volunteers.

'I wouldn't have this opportunity' without Appeal efforts, says Deacon Ingala

OSHKOSH — When Deacon John Ingala was asked to participate in the video promoting the Bishop's Appeal, he didn't hesitate.

"I am speaking as a newly ordained deacon and why I value the Bishop's Appeal," said Deacon Ingala, who was ordained to the diaconate in May 2009. "The Bishop's Appeal and the contributions of parishioners throughout the diocese (are part) of their faith formation. From my perspective, I wouldn't have this opportunity to pursue this calling that I felt to serve, wanting to give back to the parishes and diocese as a deacon. I wouldn't be able to continue down this path."