Like Jacob in the desert, God invites us to a wrestling match
Defiant priest removed from ministry to speak at ‘canceled priests’ event.
Father James Altman, pastor at St. James the Less Catholic Church in La Crosse, Wis., is seen in his YouTube video. In the clip he attacks Catholics who are Democrats. Bishop William P. Callahan removed him as pastor July 9, 2021. (Credit: CNS photo/YouTube screen grab.)
LA CROSSE, Wisconsin — A defiant priest who was removed from his ministry in La Crosse last year is set to speak in Beloit this summer.
The La Crosse Tribune reported Sunday that Father James Altman will speak at the Coalition for Canceled Priests’ one-year anniversary event in Beloit in June.
Bishop William Patrick Callahan removed Altman from his ministry at St. James the Less in La Crosse in July after Altman made a series of contentious remarks, including declaring that Catholics can’t be Democrats, anyone who supports Democrats will burn in hell and pandemic-related restrictions on church gatherings were “Nazi-esque controls.” His orthodox approach to Mass and sermons drove some parish members to leave St. James but galvanized conservative members of that church.
Callahan clarified in September that Altman remains a priest in the La Crosse Diocese and continues to be paid.
Altman appeared on a March 16 episode of the Catholic podcast “U.S. Grace Force.” He said during the episode, entitled “Are We Past the Point of No Return?” that he hopes God calls his parents to heaven “before it all hits the fan — which is coming soon.”
He also downplayed the Russian invasion of Ukraine and criticized the media for exaggerating reports of death and destruction in that country. He said the war isn’t worth the global response it has generated and the media should focus on problems along the United States’ southern border and China.
For the cost of a cup of coffee at Starbucks, you can help keep the lights on at Crux.
Tuesdays on
Crux . Anytime . Anywhere .
Today’s top stories delivered straight into your inbox.
- Father Jeffrey F. Kirby
War of words between Israel and the Vatican over Gaza heats up
- John L. Allen Jr.
Vatican voices caution on charge of ‘false mysticism’ in cases such as Rupnik
- Elise Ann Allen
No-vax priest who left for love of a woman runs for mayor
Vatican doctrine czar says Medjugorje ruling not ready, but offers insight
In new vetting process for apparitions, Vatican nixes ‘supernatural’ label
Vatican reverses St. Louis Archdiocese plan to merge 3 parishes
- John Lavenburg
Texas bishops give guidelines for the use of wine at Mass in prison
U.S. bishops urge Congress to address maternal health care crisis
Arkansas priest credits face time with Pope Francis to serving immigrants
Summary of 2022 Priest Assignment Changes for the Diocese of Orange
Summary of Priests Assignment Changes
Bishop Vann is pleased to announce the following appointments, effective July 1, 2022
PASTORS / RECTOR
REV. STEVEN CORREZ From Parochial Vicar, St. Joachim Church, Costa Mesa To Pastor, St. Mary Church, Fullerton and Director of Deaf Ministry, Garden Grove
REV. MSGR. STEPHEN DOKTORCZYK From Vicar General, Moderator of the Curia, Pastoral Center, Garden Grove To Pastor, St. Martin de Porres Church, Yorba Linda, and Vicar General for Legal and Canonical Affairs, Pastoral Center, Garden Grove
REV. ANTONIO LÓPEZ-FLORES From Pastor, St. Anne Church, Santa Ana To Pastor, Our Lady of Fatima Church, San Clemente
REV. MARTIN HIEP NGUYEN From Parochial Administrator, La Purísima Church, Orange To Pastor, La Purísima Church, Orange
REV. PATRICK ALLEN MOSES From Pastor, Holy Family Church, Orange To Pastor, St. Timothy Church, Laguna Niguel
REV. PASCAL BAO NGUYEN, O.PRAEM. From St. Michael’s Abbey of the Norbertine Fathers, Silverado To Pastor, St. John the Baptist Church, Costa Mesa Effective Aug. 1, 2022
REV. SY UY NGUYEN From Pastor, St. Martin de Porres Church, Yorba Linda To Pastor, Holy Family Church, Orange
REV. SERGIO RAMOS From Parochial Administrator, St. Justin Martyr Church, Anaheim To Pastor, St. Justin Martyr Church, Anaheim
VERY REV. BAO QUOC THAI From Pastor, St. Cecilia Church, Tustin To Rector, Christ Cathedral, Garden Grove
REV. PAUL THAI TRINH From Parochial Administrator Extended, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, Irvine To Pastor, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, Irvine
PASTORS RENEWED OR EXTENDED
REV. JOSEPH BARCLAY KNERR From Pastor, St. Bonaventure Church, Huntington Beach To Pastor Extended, St. Bonaventure Church, Huntington Beach
REV. DENNIS KRIZ, OSM From Pastor, St. Philip Benizi Church, Fullerton To Pastor Renewed, St. Philip Benizi Church, Fullerton
REV. THOMAS PAUL NAVAL From Pastor, Santiago de Compostela Church, Lake Forest To Pastor Renewed, Santiago de Compostela Church, Lake Forest
REV. TUYEN VAN NGUYEN From Pastor, Blessed Sacrament Church, Westminster To Pastor Renewed, Blessed Sacrament Church, Westminster
REV. JOSEPH TUAN NGOC PHAM From Pastor, St. Barbara Church, Santa Ana To Pastor Renewed, St. Barbara Church, Santa Ana
ADMINISTRATORS / DIRECTORS
REV. SAÚL ALBA-INFANTE From Parochial Vicar, San Antonio de Padua Church, Anaheim Hills To Parochial Administrator, St. Joseph Church, Santa Ana
REV. MARIO ALONSO JUÁREZ From Parochial Vicar, Christ Cathedral, Garden Grove To Parochial Administrator, St. Anne Church, Santa Ana
REV. KHOI TAN PHAN From Parochial Vicar, Blessed Sacrament Church, Westminster To Parochial Administrator, St. Cecilia Church, Tustin
REV. ZBIGNIEW FRASZCZAK, SVD From Director, St. John Paul II Polish Center, Yorba Linda To Director Renewed, St. John Paul II Polish Center, Yorba Linda
ADMINISTRATOR EXTENDED
REV. KENNETH ALLEN SCHMIT From Parochial Administrator Extended, St. John Vianney Chapel, Balboa Island To Parochial Administrator Extended, St. John Vianney Chapel, Balboa Island
PAROCHIAL VICARS
REV. VENANCIO L. AMIDAR From Parochial Vicar, St. Catherine of Siena Church, Laguna Beach To Parochial Vicar, St. Justin Martyr Church, Anaheim
REV. MARTIN P. BUI From Parochial Vicar, St. Joseph Church, Placentia To Parochial Vicar, St. Nicholas Church, Laguna Woods
REV. MICHAEL JOSEPH FITZPATRICK From further studies, at the Teresianum in Rome with residence at the Casa Santa Maria, Rome, Italy To Parochial Vicar, St. John Neumann Church, Irvine
REV. WILLIAM BREWER GOLDIN From Parochial Vicar, Our Lady of Fatima Church, San Clemente To Parochial Vicar, St. Vincent de Paul Church, Huntington Beach
REV. BENJAMIN DIEP HOANG From Parochial Vicar, St. Barbara Church, Santa Ana To Parochial Vicar, St. Columban Church, Garden Grove
REV. GASTON MENDIOLA ARROYO From Parochial Vicar, St. Vincent de Paul Church, Huntington Beach To Parochial Vicar, La Purísima Church, Orange
REV. BRANDON ROBERT LÓPEZ From Parochial Vicar, St. Pius V Church, Buena Park To Parochial Vicar, St. Kilian Church, Mission Viejo
REV. NICOLAS TOAN NGUYEN From Parochial Vicar, St. Justin Martyr Church, Anaheim To Parochial Vicar, St. Polycarp Church, Stanton
REV. PHUONG VAN NGUYEN From Parochial Vicar, St. Columban Church, Garden Grove To Parochial Vicar, St. Nicholas Church, Laguna Woods
REV. THANH-TAI PETER NGUYEN From Parochial Vicar, Ss. Simon & Jude Church, Huntington Beach To Parochial Vicar Part-time, Christ Our Savior Church, Santa Ana and Parochial Vicar Part-time, St. Joseph Church, Santa Ana
REV. TUAN JOHN NGUYEN From Parochial Vicar, St. Polycarp Church, Stanton To Parochial Vicar, San Antonio de Padua Church, Anaheim Hills
REV. TONY KEY PARK From Parochial Vicar, St. John Neumann Church, Irvine To Parochial Vicar, Our Lady Queen of Angels Church, Newport Beach
REV. ANTONIO PALOS, OAR From St. Augustine Priory, Oxnard To Parochial Vicar, Our Lady of Guadalupe (3rd & Grand) Church, Santa Ana Effective March 27, 2022
REV. CHRISTOPHER TUAN PHAM From Parochial Vicar, Christ Cathedral, Garden Grove To Parochial Vicar, Blessed Sacrament Church, Westminster
REV. JUAN BERNARDO NAVARRO SANCHEZ From Parochial Vicar, La Purísima Church, Orange To Parochial Vicar, Christ Cathedral, Garden Grove
REV. NICOLAUS DUY THAI From Human Formation Faculty Member, Mt. Angel Seminary, Portland, Oregon To Parochial Vicar, St. Martin de Porres Church, Yorba Linda
REV. BENJAMIN PHILIP TRAN From Parochial Vicar, St. Anthony Claret Church, Anaheim To Parochial Vicar, Our Lady of Fatima Church, San Clemente
REV. MARTIN DUC TRAN From Parochial Vicar, St. Nicholas Church, Laguna Woods To Parochial Vicar, St. Pius V Church, Buena Park
REV. ERIC JUN VIRAY, A.M. From Alagad ni Maria Religious Community, Philippines To Parochial Vicar, St. Pius V Church, Buena Park
REV. ANTHONY HIEN VU From Parochial Vicar, Our Lady Queen of Angels Church, Newport Beach To Parochial Vicar, St. Barbara Church, Santa Ana
SENIOR PRIESTS
REV. ALFRED STEPHEN BACA From Director, Office of Evangelization & Faith Formation, Pastoral Center, Garden Grove To Senior Priest, St. Anne Church, Seal Beach
REV. EFRAÍN FLORES From Pastor, St. Joseph Church, Santa Ana To Senior Priest, St. Anthony Claret Church, Anaheim
SPECIAL ASSIGNMENTS
VERY REV. E. SCOTT BORGMAN From Judicial Vicar, Office of Canonical Services, Garden Grove In-residence, St. Martin de Porres Church, Yorba Linda To Formation Director, Mount Angel Seminary, St. Benedict, Oregon Effective Aug. 1, 2022 Remaining as Judicial Vicar, Office of Canonical Services, Garden Grove
VERY REV. ANGELOS SEBASTIAN From Pastor, St. Kilian Church, Mission Viejo To Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia, Pastoral Center, Garden Grove, while remaining Pastor, St. Kilian Church, Mission Viejo
REV. CHRISTOPHER SMITH From Rector, Christ Cathedral, Garden Grove To Rector Emeritus and Episcopal Vicar for Special Projects
REV. PAUL HOA DUY VU From Parochial Vicar Part-time, St. Joseph Church, Santa Ana and Part-time Adjutant Judicial Vicar, Canonical Services, Garden Grove To sabbatical from October to December 2022 while remaining Director, Korean Martyrs Catholic Center, Westminster
CHAPLAINCY REV. MARK JON CRUZ, A.M. From Alagad ni Maria Religious Community, Philippines To Chaplain, Mater Dei High School, Santa Ana
INCARDINATION REV. THOMAS DE DANG NGUYEN From Parochial Vicar, La Purísima Church, Orange To Retired Priest Status. In current residence, La Purísima Church, Orange
REV. ENRIQUE JOSÉ SERA From Pastor, St. Mary Church, Fullerton To Pastor Emeritus in private residence
REV. CHRISTOPHER SMITH From Rector, Christ Cathedral, Garden Grove To Rector Emeritus in current residence
REV. MSGR. JOHN URELL From Pastor, St. Timothy Church, Laguna Niguel To Pastor Emeritus in private residence
LEAVE OF ABSENCE / SICK LEAVE
REV. JOSEPH EVAN DROESSLER From In-Residence, St. Hedwig Church, Los Alamitos To In-Residence, Ss. Simon & Jude Church, Huntington Beach
RETURN TO RELIGIOUS COMMUNITIES
REV. ANTHONY BAUTISTA, A.M. From Chaplaincy, Mater Dei High School, Santa Ana To Alagad ni Maria Religious Community, Philippines
REV. JUVY CRISOSTOMO, A.M. From Parochial Vicar, St. Pius V Church, Buena Park To Alagad ni Maria Religious Community, Philippines
REV. ALFREDO DE DIOS, OAR From Parochial Vicar, Our Lady of Guadalupe (3rd & Grand) Church, Santa Ana To Religious Order – St. Augustine Priory, Oxnard Effective March 27, 2022
REV. AUGUSTINE R. PUCHNER, O.PRAEM. From Pastor, St. John the Baptist Church, Costa Mesa To extended time of pastoral service at the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe in LaCrosse, Wisconsin. Effective Aug. 1, 2022
REV. JOSEPH AROCKIASAMY ARPUTHASAMY, O.S.M. From Chaplain, Servite High School, Anaheim To Order of Friar Servants of Mary Religious Community in India. Effective June 27, 2022
Related Posts
Clergy Assignment Updates & Parochial Vicar Changes
Summary of Priest Assignment Changes for the Diocese of Orange Announced
Summary of 2023 Priest Assignment Changes for the Diocese of Orange
Opportunities to enrich your prayer life
How can we pray for you?
Pray the live rosary.
You're invited to pray a Live Rosary with us every Wednesday at 4 PM PST. Live from Christ Cathedral , a member of the Church will lead us through the Glorious Mysteries
Be Inspired by our Weekly Reflections
Listen to a reflection, new every Thursday.
Your message (optional)
Disclaimer: The Diocese of Orange website uses [insert tool] to provide automatic translation of its web pages.
This translation application tool is provided for purposes of information and convenience only. [insert tool] is a paid third-party service, which is not controlled by the Diocese of Orange. The Diocese of Orange is unable to guarantee the accuracy of any translation provided by [insert tool] and is therefore not liable for any inaccurate information or changes in the formatting of the pages resulting from the use of the translation application tool.
The web pages currently in English on the Diocese of Orange website are the most accurate source for the program information and services the Diocese of Orange provides. Any discrepancies or differences created in the translation are not binding and have no legal effect for compliance or enforcement purposes.
[mailpoet_form id=”1″]
- Catholic Social Teachings
- Our Catholic Faith
- Strategic Plan
- Our Lady of La Vang Shrine
- Virtual Tour
- New Hope Counseling Services
- Catholic Charities OC
- Disability Services
- Grief Support
- Behavioral Health
- Pregnancy Support
- Report Abuse
- Request Prayer
- Find an Event
- Find a Parish
- Find a School
- Ministries & Services
- Financial Statements
- Giving Societies
- OC Catholic News
- Protect & Report
Choose from news (Monday), leisure (Thursday) or worship (Saturday) — or get all three!
Calendar | Contact Us
Bishop announces 2022 pastoral appointments
Related Content (1)
Bishop makes parish appointments for 2023
Bishop Salvatore R. Matano has announced the following priest-personnel assignments, which become effective June 28, 2022, unless otherwise noted:
Father Augustine Chumo renewed for a second six-year term as pastor, Immaculate Conception, Ithaca.
Father Simon Atta Denchira from the Diocese of Obuasi, Ghana, to parochial vicar, St. Louis, Pittsford.
Father Michael G. Fowler renewed for a second six-year term as pastor, St. Agnes, Avon; St. Paul of the Cross, Honeoye Falls; and St. Rose, Lima.
Father Joseph W. Marcoux to continue as pastor, St. Catherine of Siena, Ithaca, after completing his second six-year term.
Father Michael A. Mayer from parochial vicar, Blessed Sacrament, St. Mary and St. Boniface, Rochester, to parochial vicar, St. Marianne Cope Parish, Henrietta.
Father Malachy Nwosu from parochial vicar, St. Marianne Cope, Henrietta, to parochial administrator, St. Christopher, North Chili.
Father John Orenge Omboga from the Diocese of Ngong, Kenya, to parochial vicar, Blessed Sacrament, St. Mary and St. Boniface, Rochester.
Father Michael G. Upson from parochial administrator, St. Christopher, North Chili, to senior status.
© 2024 Catholic Courier
La Crosse Diocese names 25 former priests who abused children
LA CROSSE - At least 25 priests who served in the Diocese of La Crosse over the past several decades sexually assaulted children, the diocese disclosed Saturday.
The disclosure, posted at 4 p.m. on the diocese website at diolc.org , brings the total number of Catholic priests with substantiated accusations of sexual abuse in Wisconsin to nearly 160.
The La Crosse diocese serves nearly 200,000 Catholics in counties across central and western Wisconsin, including those in Marathon, Portage and Wood counties.
The list was published after an audit of the diocese clergy files dating back to 1868 by the Texas-based firm Defenbaugh & Associates Inc..
The list included 18 clergy members who were part of the La Crosse diocese:
Bruce Ball, Raymond Bornbach, Eugene Comiskey, Thomas Dempsey, James Ennis, James Finucan, John Thomas Finucan, Tom Garthwaite, Richard Herrmann, William Hertzenberg, Thomas Langer, James E. Mason, Garland Muller, Charles Rasmussen, Albert Sonnberger, James Stauber, Patrick Umberger and Raymond J. Wagner.
The diocese also named two priests who were part of other Catholic orders but were accused of abuse while serving in the La Crosse diocese: Timothy Svea and Bogdan Werra.
The list also included five priests who spent time in the diocese and whose names appeared on other Catholic diocese and religious order lists of suspected abusers: Dennis Bouche, Daniel Budzynski, Orville Munie, Joseph Smetana and Francis Zimmerer.
In addition to the 25 names, the diocese released the service history for each priest including ordination date, pastoral assignments and their current status, including dates of death. Most of the priests are now dead, and the diocese said none of the surviving abusers is serving in the ministry.
Parish leaders across the diocese also were instructed to read a letter from La Crosse Bishop William Patrick Callahan during Masses this weekend. Callahan did not make himself available for reporter interviews Saturday.
In a letter and video posted to the diocese website, the bishop told viewers the disclosure is an important step for the diocese and offered prayers to victims and their families.
“I realize that our promise of continued prayer and support may not seem to be enough; for your pain, suffering and anguish will always be a part of you,” the bishop wrote in the letter.
The letter also notes that the list will remain public and names will be added as claims are sufficiently confirmed.
La Crosse's announcement comes at a time of heightened scrutiny for the Catholic church over clergy abuse, and as survivor advocates in Wisconsin demand greater accountability beyond diocesan investigations. In May, Pope Francis issued a universal church law making it mandatory for all Catholic leaders to report cases of clerical sex abuse — including those committed by bishops and cardinals, a key provision.
Peter Isely, a founder of the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests, or SNAP, said he's glad the diocese released names but criticized the bishop for failing to take questions. Isely also noted the firm that conducted the review isn't releasing information about the process that led to the list.
"The bottom line is transparency is only as legitimate as the person or organization making the claim," he said.
David Clohessy, the Missouri director of SNAP and a vocal advocate for survivors, said he's skeptical of the information that was released. Clohessy visited Catholic parishes in the Wausau area in September, distributing flyers during Masses that urged churchgoers to pressure diocese leaders for transparency.
"My suspicion is that the histories aren't accurate," he said, after reviewing the diocese list.
Outside Wisconsin, at least 14 attorneys general have launched investigations into dioceses in their states — and they are beginning to lead to criminal charges. Prosecutors in Michigan charged five priests accused of sexual misconduct in May.
Wisconsin Attorney General Josh Kaul has so far not committed to a criminal investigation into clergy abuse, despite victims' calls for a state review.
The Archdiocese of Milwaukee has identified 48 known abusers, first releasing its list in 2004, but attorneys for victims say more than 100 others are named in bankruptcy records still under seal.
Just last year, the Diocese of Green Bay and De Pere's St. Norbert Abbey published lists of their priests who abused children — totaling 70 members of the clergy over several decades. The Madison and Superior dioceses have also said they are investigating abuse within their ranks but have yet to disclose their findings.
Prior to Saturday's disclosure from the La Crosse diocese, more than 130 Wisconsin priests had been credibly accused of sexual assault and identified publicly. There has been no tally of their victims, however.
The Diocese of La Crosse serves 19 counties: Adams, Buffalo, Chippewa, Clark, Crawford, Dunn, Eau Claire, Jackson, Juneau, La Crosse, Marathon, Monroe, Pepin, Pierce, Portage, Richland, Trempealeau, Vernon and Wood.
Diocesan clergy
Those with substantiated allegations:
- Bruce Ball, ordained 1978 and died in 2002. Served in Colby, Eau Claire Regis High School, La Crosse Aquinas High School, Marshfield Columbus High School, Wisconsin Rapids. Multiple allegations.
- Raymond Bornbach, ordained 1941 and died 2006. Serviced in Cazenovia, Hewitt, Junction City, Marshfield, Mosinee, New Lisbon, Owen, Withee, Wausau. Multiple allegations.
- Eugene Comiskey, ordained 1945 and died in 1982. Served in Adams, Brooks, Pilot Knob, Boyd, Chippewa Falls, Halder, La Crosse, Marshfield Columbus High School, Spencer. Multiple allegations.
- Thomas Dempsey, ordained 1955 and died in 1998. Served in Bangor, Bloomer, Boaz, Northern Colony and Training School in Chippewa Falls, Eastman, Sacred Heart Hospital in Eau Claire, Genoa and Aquinas High School, La Crosse, Mauston Madonna High School, Rudolph, Soldiers Grove. Served outside the Diocese of La Crosse. Multiple allegations.
- James Ennis, ordained 1950 and died in 2000. Served in Arcadia, Blenker, Dilly, Eau Claire, Elroy, Ettrick, Blair, Hillsboro, La Crosse, North Creek, Schofield, Wilton, Yuba, Mount Tabor. Multiple allegations.
- James Finucan, ordained in 1947 and died in 2009. Served in Cooks Valley, Eastman, Eau Claire, La Crosse, Owen, Prairie du Chien, Stevens Point, Wausau. Single allegation. Served outside of diocese in Ontario Canada. Single allegation.
- John Thomas Finucan, ordained 1955 and died in 2018. Served in Fountain City, Viterbo University in La Crosse, Pine Creek, Richland Center, Stevens Point, Wausau Newman High School, Wisconsin Rapids Assumption High School. Outside of diocese: UW-Milwaukee, archdiocese of St. Paul/Minneapolis, St. Mary’s College of Minnesota in Winona, Minnesota. Single allegation.
- Tom Garthwaite, ordained 1955 and removed in 2004. Served in Arcadia, Augusta, Fall Creek, Drywood, Jim Falls, Kendall, Elroy, Wilton, Marshfield, Mauston Madonna High School, Sparta and St. Mary Hospital, Stevens Point. Multiple allegations.
- Richard Herrmann, ordained in 1944 and died in 2016. Served in McDonell High School, Chippewa Falls; La Crosse, Lima, Marshfield, Milladore, Poniatowski, Rudolph, Sigel, Wausau, Wisconsin Rapids, Boulder Junction, Ladysmith, Presque Isle, Sayner. Multiple allegations.
- William Hertzenberg, ordained in 1956 and died in 1995. Served in Chippewa Falls, Durand, Independence, La Crosse, Nekoosa, Assumption High School in Wisconsin Rapids. Multiple allegations.
- Thomas Langer, ordained in 1956 and died in 2004. Served in Babcock, Bloomer, Cooks Valley, Gays Mills, Rolling Ground, Aquinas High School, La Crosse;
- St. Joseph Hospital, Marshfield; Columbus High School, Marshfield; New Auburn, Poniatowski, Newman High School, Wausau; Port Edwards, Rock Falls, Regis High School, Eau Claire; Assumption High School, Wisconsin Rapids; Parkersburg (West Virginia) Catholic High School. Single substantiated allegation.
- James E. Mason, ordained in 1967 and laicized in 2004. Served in McDonell High School, Chippewa Falls; Regis High School, Eau Claire; Newman Center, Eau Claire; La Crosse, Richland Center. Multiple allegations.
- Garland Muller, ordained in 1938 and died in 1978. Served in Bakerville, Cooks Valley, Keyesville, Marathon, Rudolph, Wausau, Wilton, Wuerzburg, Germany. Multiple allegations.
- Charles Rasmussen, ordained in 1977 and died in 2011. Served in La Crosse, Plover, Stevens Point. Multiple allegations.
- Albert Sonnberger, ordained in 1956 and entered “inactive ministry” in November 2018. Served in Chippewa Falls, Cooks Valley, La Crosse; Aquinas High School, La Crosse; Soldiers Grove, Boaz, Tilden. Single allegation.
- James Stauber, ordained in 1959 and died in 2010. Served in Brackett, Colby, St. Patrick Jr. High School and Regis High School, Eau Claire; La Crosse, Lima, Marathon, Prairie du Chien, Nekoosa, Assumption High School, Wisconsin Rapids; Milwaukee, Riverside, California. Multiple allegations.
- Patrick Umberger, ordained in 1980 and died in 2010. Served in Arcadia, Blair, Whitehall, Elroy, Union Center, Wonewoc, La Crosse, Mauston, Onalaska, Plover, West Allis, Burlington. Multiple allegations.
- Raymond J. Wagner, ordained 1952 and died in 2009. Served in Arcadia, Black River Falls, Cazenovia, Eau Claire, Eastman, Gays Mills, Kendall, Poniatowski, Rock Falls, Sparta, Stevens Point, Wausau. Multiple allegations.
Non-diocese priests accused of abuse in diocese
- Timothy Svea, ordained in 1992 and last assignment in the diocese was in 2000. Served in St. Mary’s Ridge, Tomah, Wausau. Multiple substantiated allegations
- Bogdan Werra, ordained in 1981 and suspended from the La Crosse Diocese in 1994. Served in Keyesville, Bear Valley, Lone Rock, Cazenovia, Stevens Point. Single substantiated allegation.
Non-diocese priests who served in diocese and listed on other abuse lists
- Dennis Bouche, no information on ordination. Died in 1995. Served in Independence. Single substantiated allegation of abuse in Diocese of Green Bay.
- Daniel Budzynnski, no information on ordination. Laicized in 2004. Served in Eau Claire, Stevens Point. Multiple substantiated allegations in Archdiocese of Milwaukee.
- Orville Munie, no information on ordination. Died in 1993. Served in Arkansaw. Unspecified number of allegations, according to Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate.
- Joseph Smetana, no information on ordination. Permanently removed from ministry. Served in Eau Galle. Unspecified number of allegations, according to Capuchin Fransiscan Province of St. Joseph.
- Francis Zimmer, no information on ordination. Died in 1983. Served in Amherst, Chippewa Falls, Edgar, Stevens Point, Tomah. Unspecified number of allegations in the Diocese of Fort Worth.
Laura Schulte is a reporter based at the Wausau Daily Herald. If you have any information about the priests listed in this disclosure or other cases involving clergy abuse in Wisconsin that have not been reported, you may reach her at [email protected], by phone at 715-496-4088 or on Twitter @schultelaura.
- Abuse victims say they're finally 'free' as ex-priest gets maximum sentence
- Wisconsin Catholic leaders vow openness on abusive priests, as victims push for state inquiry
- Superior Diocese publication releases information on abusive former priest
- Clergy abuse activist asks Catholics to pressure Diocese for truth
October 25, 2022 – Official
This article was posted on: October 25, 2022
The Most Reverend William Patrick Callahan, D.D., Bishop of La Crosse, makes the following announcement:
The Reverend Monsignor Mark R. Pierce , Pastor of St. Michael Parish and Church of the Resurrection Parish, both in Wausau, and Dean of the Wausau Deanery, has submitted his resignation as Pastor and Dean, and it has been accepted, effective October 21, 2022. He has been placed on a leave of absence.
- Christ Cathedral
- OC Catholic Sports League
- EWTN Live Stream
- Athlete Profiles
- OC Catholic TV
- Health & Wellness
- From the Bishop
Sign Up for Our Newsletter!
Sign-Up to receive updated stories from OC Catholic. *
SUMMARY OF PRIEST ASSIGNMENT CHANGES
Bishop vann is pleased to announce the following appointments, effective july 1, 2022.
Bishop Vann is pleased to announce the following appointments, effective July 1, 2022
PASTORS/RECTORS
REV. STEVEN CORREZ From Parochial Vicar, St. Joachim Church, Costa Mesa To Pastor, St. Mary Church, Fullerton and Director of Deaf Ministry, Garden Grove
REV. MSGR. STEPHEN DOKTORCZYK From Vicar General, Moderator of the Curia, Pastoral Center, Garden Grove To Pastor, St. Martin de Porres Church, Yorba Linda, and Vicar General for Legal and Canonical Affairs, Pastoral Center, Garden Grove
REV. ANTONIO LÓPEZ-FLORES
From Pastor, St. Anne Church, Santa Ana To Pastor, Our Lady of Fatima Church, San Clemente
REV. MARTIN HIEP NGUYEN From Parochial Administrator, La Purísima Church, Orange To Pastor, La Purísima Church, Orange
REV. PATRICK ALLEN MOSES From Pastor, Holy Family Church, Orange To Pastor, St. Timothy Church, Laguna Niguel
REV. PASCAL BAO NGUYEN, O.PRAEM. From St. Michael’s Abbey of the Norbertine Fathers, Silverado To Pastor, St. John the Baptist Church, Costa Mesa Effective Aug. 1, 2022
REV. SY UY NGUYEN From Pastor, St. Martin de Porres Church, Yorba Linda To Pastor, Holy Family Church, Orange
REV. SERGIO RAMOS From Parochial Administrator, St. Justin Martyr Church, Anaheim To Pastor, St. Justin Martyr Church, Anaheim
VERY REV. BAO QUOC THAI From Pastor, St. Cecilia Church, Tustin To Rector, Christ Cathedral, Garden Grove
REV. PAUL THAI TRINH From Parochial Administrator Extended, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, Irvine To Pastor, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, Irvine
PASTORS RENEWED OR EXTENDED:
R EV. JOSEPH BARCLAY KNERR From Pastor, St. Bonaventure Church, Huntington Beach To Pastor Extended, St. Bonaventure Church, Huntington Beach
REV. DENNIS KRIZ, OSM From Pastor, St. Philip Benizi Church, Fullerton To Pastor Renewed, St. Philip Benizi Church, Fullerton
REV. THOMAS PAUL NAVAL From Pastor, Santiago de Compostela Church, Lake Forest To Pastor Renewed, Santiago de Compostela Church, Lake Forest
REV. TUYEN VAN NGUYEN From Pastor, Blessed Sacrament Church, Westminster To Pastor Renewed, Blessed Sacrament Church, Westminster
REV. JOSEPH TUAN NGOC PHAM From Pastor, St. Barbara Church, Santa Ana To Pastor Renewed, St. Barbara Church, Santa Ana
ADMINISTRATORS/DIRECTORS:
REV. SAÚL ALBA-INFANTE From Parochial Vicar, San Antonio de Padua Church, Anaheim Hills To Parochial Administrator, St. Joseph Church, Santa Ana
REV. MARIO ALONSO JUÁREZ From Parochial Vicar, Christ Cathedral, Garden Grove To Parochial Administrator, St. Anne Church, Santa Ana
REV. KHOI TAN PHAN From Parochial Vicar, Blessed Sacrament Church, Westminster To Parochial Administrator, St. Cecilia Church, Tustin
REV. ZBIGNIEW FRASZCZAK, SVD From Director, St. John Paul II Polish Center, Yorba Linda To Director Renewed, St. John Paul II Polish Center, Yorba Linda
ADMINISTRATOR EXTENDED:
REV. KENNETH ALLEN SCHMIT From Parochial Administrator Extended, St. John Vianney Chapel, Balboa Island To Parochial Administrator Extended, St. John Vianney Chapel, Balboa Island
PAROCHIAL VICARS:
REV. VENANCIO L. AMIDAR From Parochial Vicar, St. Catherine of Siena Church, Laguna Beach To Parochial Vicar, St. Justin Martyr Church, Anaheim
REV. MARTIN P. BUI From Parochial Vicar, St. Joseph Church, Placentia To Parochial Vicar, St. Nicholas Church, Laguna Woods
REV. MICHAEL JOSEPH FITZPATRICK From further studies, at the Teresianum in Rome with residence at the Casa Santa Maria, Rome, Italy To Parochial Vicar, St. John Neumann Church, Irvine
REV. WILLIAM BREWER GOLDIN From Parochial Vicar, Our Lady of Fatima Church, San Clemente To Parochial Vicar, St. Vincent de Paul Church, Huntington Beach
REV. BENJAMIN DIEP HOANG From Parochial Vicar, St. Barbara Church, Santa Ana To Parochial Vicar, St. Columban Church, Garden Grove
REV. GASTON MENDIOLA ARROYO From Parochial Vicar, St. Vincent de Paul Church, Huntington Beach To Parochial Vicar, La Purísima Church, Orange
REV. BRANDON ROBERT LÓPEZ From Parochial Vicar, St. Pius V Church, Buena Park To Parochial Vicar, St. Kilian Church, Mission Viejo
REV. NICOLAS TOAN NGUYEN From Parochial Vicar, St. Justin Martyr Church, Anaheim To Parochial Vicar, St. Polycarp Church, Stanton
REV. PHUONG VAN NGUYEN From Parochial Vicar, St. Columban Church, Garden Grove To Parochial Vicar, St. Nicholas Church, Laguna Woods
REV. THANH-TAI PETER NGUYEN From Parochial Vicar, Ss. Simon & Jude Church, Huntington Beach To Parochial Vicar Part-time, Christ Our Savior Church, Santa Ana and Parochial Vicar Part-time, St. Joseph Church, Santa Ana
REV. TUAN JOHN NGUYEN From Parochial Vicar, St. Polycarp Church, Stanton To Parochial Vicar, San Antonio de Padua Church, Anaheim Hills
REV. TONY KEY PARK From Parochial Vicar, St. John Neumann Church, Irvine To Parochial Vicar, Our Lady Queen of Angels Church, Newport Beach
PAROCHIAL VICARS, CONTINUED:
REV. ANTONIO PALOS, OAR From St. Augustine Priory, Oxnard To Parochial Vicar, Our Lady of Guadalupe (3rd & Grand) Church, Santa Ana, effective March 27, 2022
REV. CHRISTOPHER TUAN PHAM From Parochial Vicar, Christ Cathedral, Garden Grove To Parochial Vicar, Blessed Sacrament Church, Westminster
REV. JUAN BERNARDO NAVARRO SANCHEZ From Parochial Vicar, La Purísima Church, Orange To Parochial Vicar, Christ Cathedral, Garden Grove
REV. NICOLAUS DUY THAI From Human Formation Faculty Member, Mt. Angel Seminary, Portland, OR. To Parochial Vicar, St. Martin de Porres Church, Yorba Linda
REV. BENJAMIN PHILIP TRAN From Parochial Vicar, St. Anthony Claret Church, Anaheim To Parochial Vicar, Our Lady of Fatima Church, San Clemente
REV. MARTIN DUC TRAN From Parochial Vicar, St. Nicholas Church, Laguna Woods To Parochial Vicar, St. Pius V Church, Buena Park
REV. ERIC JUN VIRAY, A.M. From Alagad ni Maria Religious Community, Philippines To Parochial Vicar, St. Pius V Church, Buena Park
REV. ANTHONY HIEN VU From Parochial Vicar, Our Lady Queen of Angels Church, Newport Beach To Parochial Vicar, St. Barbara Church, Santa Ana
SENIOR PRIESTS:
REV. ALFRED STEPHEN BACA From Director, Office of Evangelization & Faith Formation, Pastoral Center, Garden Grove To Senior Priest, St. Anne Church, Seal Beach
REV. EFRAÍN FLORES From Pastor, St. Joseph Church, Santa Ana To Senior Priest, St. Anthony Claret Church, Anaheim
SPECIAL ASSIGNMENTS:
VERY REV. E. SCOTT BORGMAN From Judicial Vicar, Office of Canonical Services, Garden Grove In-residence, St. Martin de Porres Church, Yorba Linda To Formation Director, Mount Angel Seminary, St. Benedict, OR, effective Aug. 1, 2022; Remaining as Judicial Vicar, Office of Canonical Services, Garden Grove
VERY REV. ANGELOS SEBASTIAN From Pastor, St. Kilian Church, Mission Viejo To Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia, Pastoral Center, Garden Grove, while remaining Pastor, St. Kilian Church, Mission Viejo
REV. CHRISTOPHER SMITH From Rector, Christ Cathedral, Garden Grove To Rector Emeritus and Episcopal Vicar for Special Projects
REV. PAUL HOA DUY VU From Parochial Vicar Part-time, St. Joseph Church, Santa Ana and Part-time Adjutant Judicial Vicar, Canonical Services, Garden Grove To Parochial Vicar, St. Columban Church, Garden Grove and Part-time Adjutant Judicial Vicar, Canonical Services, Garden Grove
SABBATICAL:
REV. BENEDICT SE YANG From Director, Korean Martyrs Catholic Center, Westminster To sabbatical from October-December 2022 while remaining Director, Korean Martyrs Catholic Center, Westminster
CHAPLAINCY:
REV. MARK JON CRUZ, A.M. From Alagad ni Maria Religious Community, Philippines To Chaplain, Mater Dei High School, Santa Ana
REV. LUÍS SEGURA From Parochial Vicar, St. Polycarp Church, Stanton Incardinated July 5, 2022: From the Provincia Franciscana de los Ss. Francisco y Santiago en México, A.R. Remains as Parochial Vicar, St. Polycarp, Stanton
REV. THOMAS TRAN, SVD From Parochial Vicar, Our Lady Queen of Angels Church, Newport Beach Incardinated May 13, 2022: From the Society of the Divine Word (SVD) Australia Province. Remains as Parochial Vicar, Our Lady Queen of Angels Church, Newport Beach
REV. DOUGLAS ZAVALA From Parochial Vicar, Blessed Sacrament, Westminster Incardinated on April 3, 2022: From the Archdiocese of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. Remains as Parochial Vicar, Blessed Sacrament, Westminster
REV. THOMAS DE DANG NGUYEN From Parochial Vicar, La Purísima Church, Orange To Retired Priest Status. In current residence – La Purísima Church, Orange
REV. ENRIQUE JOSÉ SERA From Pastor, St. Mary Church, Fullerton To Pastor Emeritus in private residence.
REV. CHRISTOPHER SMITH From Rector, Christ Cathedral, Garden Grove To Rector Emeritus in current residence.
REV. MSGR. JOHN URELL From Pastor, St. Timothy Church, Laguna Niguel To Pastor Emeritus in private residence.
LEAVE OF ABSENCE/SICK LEAVE:
REV. JOSEPH EVAN DROESSLER From In-Residence, St. Hedwig Church, Los Alamitos To In-Residence, Ss. Simon & Jude Church, Huntington Beach
RETURN TO RELIGIOUS COMMUNITIES:
REV. ANTHONY BAUTISTA, A.M. From Chaplaincy, Mater Dei High School, Santa Ana To Alagad ni Maria Religious Community, Philippines
REV. JUVY CRISOSTOMO, A.M. From Parochial Vicar, St. Pius V Church, Buena Park To Alagad ni Maria Religious Community, Philippines
REV. ALFREDO DE DIOS, OAR From Parochial Vicar, Our Lady of Guadalupe (3rd & Grand) Church, Santa Ana To Religious Order – St. Augustine Priory, Oxnard Effective March 27, 2022
REV. AUGUSTINE R. PUCHNER, O.PRAEM. From Pastor, St. John the Baptist Church, Costa Mesa To extended time of pastoral service at the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe in LaCrosse, Wisconsin. Effective Aug. 1, 2022
REV. JOSEPH AROCKIASAMY ARPUTHASAMY, O.S.M. From Chaplain, Servite High School, Anaheim To Order of Friar Servants of Mary Religious Community in India. Effective June 27, 2022
More Local News
Recent stories.
- LOCAL CATHOLIC SCHOOL ALUMS DISCUSS THEIR NEW BOOK, “THE LAST BEAUTIFUL BABY”
- BISHOP KEVIN VANN: DOCTOR OF MINISTRY!
- ART IN THE GARDEN
- O.C. EXECS AND COMMUNITY LEADERS HIT THE RUNWAY AT THIS YEAR’S GENTLEMEN’S HABERDASHERY FASHION SHOW
- PENTECOST, THE BIRTHDAY OF THE CHURCH
- OC CATHOLIC AFAR
- THE APOSTLE OF HOPE
- HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BISHOP VANN!
- SOUNDS FROM THE SANCTUARY – EPISODE #53: MEET DOLORES GOMEZ
- HONORING OUR MOTHER
IMAGES
COMMENTS
This article was posted on: May 17, 2022. The Most Reverend William Patrick Callahan, Bishop of La Crosse, makes the. following announcements: The Reverend Matthew N. Marshall, Pastor of St. Mary Parish in Coon Valley and Annunciation. of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish in Viroqua, has submitted his resignation as Pastor of the.
This article was posted on: January 18, 2022. The Most Reverend William Patrick Callahan, D.D., Bishop of La Crosse, makes. the following announcements: The Reverend John L. Parr, Pastor of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish at Holmen, has. submitted his letter of resignation from the office of pastor and has been granted the status of.
Televised Mass. Las Misas Celebradas en Español. DONATE ONLINE or send a check or money order to this address: Televised Mass - Diocese of La Crosse P.O. Box 4004 | La Crosse, Wisconsin 54602-4004 The Diocesan Televised Mass is filmed at various churches in the Diocese of La Crosse for those who are unable to attend Mass in their own Church.
May 6, 2017 - Officials - Catholic Life - The Roman Catholic Diocese of La Crosse The Most Reverend William Patrick Callahan, D.D., Bishop of La Crosse, makes the following announcements: The Reverend Alan M. Guanella, Associate Pastor of St. Mary Parish in Altoona and St. Raymond of Penafort Parish in Southern Eau Claire County, and ...
April 12, 2016 ·. New Officials! Click here to see assignment changes for priests and deacons throughout the diocese. catholiclife.diolc.org. April 12, 2016 - Officials - Catholic Life - The Roman Catholic Diocese of La Crosse. The Most Reverend William Patrick Callahan, D.D., Bishop of La Crosse, makes the following announcements: The ...
Callahan clarified in September that Altman remains a priest in the La Crosse Diocese and continues to be paid. Altman appeared on a March 16 episode of the Catholic podcast "U.S. Grace Force."
Ousted La Crosse priest Father James Altman appears on the May 17 episode of the Patrick Coffin Show, where he describes that Bishop William Patrick Callahan denied him access to attend the ordaining of a friend in La Crosse, calling it the "last straw." Screenshot from the Patrick Coffin Show. "Bill, you put on the last straw.
The Reverend Cryton Outschoorn, Parochial Administrator of St. Mary Parish in Lyndon Station, is appointed Pastor, effective May 9, 2023. "Rebuild My Church" is a three year initiative which seeks to continue and update the efforts accomplished in the last 17 years by bishops, clergy and laity toward strategic planning in the Diocese of La ...
Summary of Priests Assignment Changes Bishop Vann is pleased to announce the following appointments, effective July 1, 2022 PASTORS / RECTOR REV. STEVEN CORREZFrom Parochial Vicar, St. Joachim Church, Costa MesaTo Pastor, St. Mary Church, Fullerton and Director of Deaf Ministry, Garden Grove REV. MSGR. STEPHEN DOKTORCZYKFrom Vicar General, Moderator of the Curia, Pastoral Center,...
The Roman Catholic Diocese of La Crosse 3710 East Ave S PO Box 4004 La Crosse, Wisconsin 54602-4004. Phone: 608-788-7700 Fax: 608-788-8413. Contact Us
The Roman Catholic Diocese of La Crosse (Latin: Dioecesis Crossensis) is a Latin Church diocese in west-central Wisconsin in the United States. ... As of 2021, the Diocese of La Crosse had 144 diocesan priests, 61 permanent deacons and 197 nuns serving 159 parishes.
Bishop makes parish appointments for 2023. Bishop Salvatore R. Matano has announced the following priest-personnel assignments, which become effective June 28, 2022, unless otherwise noted: Father Augustine Chumo renewed for a second six-year term as pastor, Immaculate Conception, Ithaca. Father Simon Atta Denchira from the Diocese of Obuasi ...
The Most Reverend Donald E. DeGrood has decreed the following appointments effective July 1, 2022: Those who will be continuing ministry as Senior Priests: Reverend Charles L. Cimpl, granted his request to retire from his assignment as Pastor, Holy Spirit, Sioux Falls. Reverend Cathal Gallagher, granted his request to retire from his assignment as
0:02. 0:45. LA CROSSE - At least 25 priests who served in the Diocese of La Crosse over the past several decades sexually assaulted children, the diocese disclosed Saturday. The disclosure, posted ...
This article was posted on: October 25, 2022. The Most Reverend William Patrick Callahan, D.D., Bishop of La Crosse, makes the. following announcement: The Reverend Monsignor Mark R. Pierce, Pastor of St. Michael Parish and Church of the. Resurrection Parish, both in Wausau, and Dean of the Wausau Deanery, has submitted his. resignation as ...
Priest Assignment Changes. The Most Reverend Donald E. DeGrood has decreed the following priest assignment changes effective July 2, 2024: Those who will be continuing ministry as senior priests: Reverend Edward Anderson, from chaplain, Avera, Prince of Peace, to senior status. Reverend Richard Baumberger from parochial vicar of Holy Rosary ...
BISHOP VANN IS PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE THE FOLLOWING APPOINTMENTS, EFFECTIVE JULY 1, 2022. 7/19/2022. THE CHRISM MASS IS CELEBRATED AT CHRIST CATHEDRAL ON APRIL 11, 2022. PHOTO COURTESY OF STEVEN GEORGES/DIOCESE OF ORANGE. Bishop Vann is pleased to announce the following appointments, effective July 1, 2022. PASTORS/RECTORS.
Official announcement — clergy assignments. The following clergy appointments in the Diocese of Columbus become effective July 12, 2022, unless otherwise noted: Reverend Paul J. Brandimarti, from Parochial Vicar, St. Paul the Apostle Church, Westerville to Parochial Vicar, St. Vincent de Paul Church, Mount Vernon and St. Luke Church, Danville.
The Diocesan Televised Mass is filmed at various churches in the Diocese of La Crosse by Diocesan priests, parishes, and Catholic groups for those who are unable to attend Mass in their own parish. ... The Roman Catholic Diocese of La Crosse 3710 East Ave S PO Box 4004 La Crosse, Wisconsin 54602-4004. Phone: 608-788-7700 Fax: 608-788-8413 ...