Bishop Ricken gives new priest
a humorous first assignment

	LAYING ON OF HANDS: Bishop David Ricken ordains Jason Blahnik to the priesthood Jan. 3 at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral in Green Bay. The laying on of hands, in which the Holy Spirit is imparted by the bishop, confers the presbyteral office. (Sam Lucero photo)
	See also: Ordination slideshow with audio

By Sam Lucero
Compass Staff

GREEN BAY -- Laughter isn't the usual reaction when a newly ordained priest receives his first pastoral assignment from the bishop. But that was the overwhelming response at the conclusion of Fr. Jason Blahnik's ordination Jan. 3 at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral.

Following the ordination rite and celebration of Mass, Bishop David Ricken read the official announcement of Fr. Blahnik's new assignment in the Diocese of Green Bay.

"Together with the faithful of this local church of Green Bay, I am both inspired by and grateful for the generous response you give to God's call to share in the priesthood of Jesus Christ. As you are ordained not to be served but to serve, I am pleased to present you with your first priestly assignment as parochial vicar of St. Mary's Cathedral in Cheyenne," said Bishop Ricken, who smiled and quickly apologized, adding that old habits die hard.

The humorous episode was greeted with a chorus of chuckles from the congregation, which included Fr. Blahnik's parents, Douglas and Betty Blahnik of Stella Maris Parish in Fish Creek, his sister Kristin Blahnik, and his brother Todd and sister-in-law Crystal.   Full story ...

 • Oshkosh SVDP store to relocate

 • Help wanted ads

 • Bishop's Corner by Bishop David Ricken --
    Priesthood ranks high in job satisfaction survey

 • Reflection on the Readings by Auxiliary Bishop Morneau--
    for January 11, 2009: Drawn to the banks of the Jordan

 • Living Rite by Sr. Ann Rehrauer --
    for January 11, 2009: Water, new life and a call to serve

 • Editorial -- World leaders must call for immediate end to Gaza violence

 • Eye on the Capitol -- 2009 legislative session: A pragmatic approach

 • Foundations of Faith -- The Name that must not be said out loud
    God's name - what we know as Yahweh - is not to be taken lightly or used
    in liturgical settings

 • Pilgrimage 2009 -- Compass tour stop: St. John Church

 • Your Catholic Neighbor -- Doerfler's music has a purpose
    Germaine Doerfler says she wants her music to draw people to God

 • Calendar of events