Days gone by

75 years ago – November 1949

A clothing, shoe, and soap collection were held for refugees Thanksgiving week in the diocese with the National Catholic Welfare Conference for the impoverished peoples of countries devastated by war. Although the war had ended, there were more than 11 million refugees in Germany and Austria alone, and millions more in Asia. Also, in Chisholm, the formal opening of St. Joseph’s new parish center was celebrated, and the building was made available for adult and youth activities. The building had been blessed the previous June by Bishop Thomas A. Welch. 

50 years ago – November 1974

St. Joseph Church in Gnesen celebrated its 100th anniversary. The first church was built of logs in 1974 and was one of the first Catholic churches in the area. After the Diocese of Duluth was established, it was decided the church was too small for the growing congregation and a new church was built and blessed by Bishop James McGolrick in July 1900. 

25 years ago – November 1999

In his column, Bishop Roger Schwietz, OMI, looked forward to the year 2000 and the upcoming Jubilee celebration. He thanked the people of the diocese for making preparations for the Jubilee, such as reflecting on their faith, seeking to repair relationships, and showing support for the poor and neglected. 

10 years ago – November 2014

The diocese held events to launch the 125th anniversary of the Diocese of Duluth. One event noted was a Mass held at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Rosary, followed by a reception and historical presentation about the diocese. The diocese also celebrated the ordination of Deacon John Foucault to the permanent diaconate and mourned the death of Father Anselm Thevarkunnel. Father Thevarkunnel was originally from India and had served in the Diocese of Duluth for many years before returning to India after his retirement from the priesthood.