Nearly 20 years ago, the Catholic Foundation and the Diocese of Green Bay began the Advancing the Mission capital campaign with a goal of supporting our parishes, and establishing endowments for leadership development, lifelong catechesis, priestly retirement care and evangelization. Today those endowments continue to help our parishes and young people in creating opportunities to encounter Christ in meaningful ways.
One of the places we see the love of Jesus at work is in northern Wisconsin. Thanks to the Catholic Foundation’s Advancing the Mission Evangelization grant, 15 pilgrims from the Diocese of Green Bay embarked on a faith-filled adventure that combined physical endurance, fellowship, and spiritual growth this past summer. This three-day journey began at St. Anthony Church in Oconto Falls, where participants pedaled 25 miles to Camp Tekakwitha and back again, totaling 50 miles.
The group included eight youth and seven additional participants, each contributing their unique gifts to the experience. More than just a bike ride, this event demonstrated that faith is woven into everyday life. The physical challenge built perseverance, teaching riders to keep striving despite difficulties while offering and receiving support from fellow pilgrims.
Advancing the Mission Evangelization Grant: Impact That Lasts
Your generosity made this possible. Through the Advancing the Mission Evangelization grant, parishes and ministries receive resources to create opportunities for youth to encounter Christ in meaningful ways. These grants fund programs that inspire young people to grow spiritually while engaging in activities that challenge and unite them.
Faith, Fellowship, and Perseverance on the Road
At Camp Tekakwitha, participants enjoyed outdoor fun amid God’s beautiful creation, deepening their faith through prayer and worship. One powerful moment occurred during the ride when news broke about the tragic Minneapolis Catholic school shooting. The youth immediately came together in prayer, showing their growing trust in God even in times of sorrow.
Another highlight was their connection with Fr. Tom Pomeroy, the parish’s new pastor, who celebrated Mass, prayed the rosary on the beach, and even joined in solving the famous “Milk Dud Mystery.” These moments reinforced that faith is active, relational, and joyful.
Your Support Continues to Shape Catholic Youth Ministry
“This experience showed that evangelization isn’t confined to a classroom. It happens in nature, in community, and in moments of challenge,” said Josh Diedrich, Executive Director of the Catholic Foundation.
McKenna Runde, Director at Camp Tekakwitha, added, “Seeing these young people embrace the outdoors while growing closer to Christ was inspiring. Camp provides a safe, nurturing environment where faith can flourish, and your support makes that possible.”
How Past Campaigns Still Impact Lives Today
This grant was made possible because of the generosity of families and individuals who supported the Catholic Foundation’s Advancing the Mission campaign in 2006. Their vision and commitment continue to impact lives today through grants like this one, creating opportunities for youth to encounter Christ in meaningful ways. Your support then and now ensures that the light of faith shines brightly for future generations.
Your support helps more youth can experience faith in action, whether through retreats, camps, or unique journeys like the Bike Run to Camp Tekakwitha. Thank you for helping more children encounter Jesus!
