During these holy days of Easter, we have extra reason to rejoice. After several years of inquiry, and much consultation, The Holy See has decreed that the former Diocese of Winona will now be called the Diocese of Winona-Rochester and that St. John the Evangelist Church of Rochester will be designated as a co-cathedral.
As many of you are aware, the City of Rochester has had significant population growth in recent decades. It is our diocese’s largest city, and three-quarters of our diocesan population currently reside in the corridor between Rochester and Mankato. The elevation of St. John the Evangelist Church to the status of a co-cathedral is a momentous occasion for our diocese and provides unique opportunities for further evangelization as we continue the work of missionary discipleship, sharing God’s love and mercy to all.
The Cathedral of the Sacred Heart will not change in name or status. It will continue to be the seat of the diocese and will host diocesan celebrations and Masses, and ordinations.
To learn more about these updates, please visit the diocesan website at www.dow.org. There will also be coverage of the new co-cathedral in the next issue of the Courier newspaper. Please pray for the people of the Diocese of Winona-Rochester, as we journey through these joyous days of the Easter Season. May the Risen Lord Jesus Christ be praised! Alleluia.
