The Diocese of Gaylord announced that Father Tyler Bischoff is leaving his post at All Saints Parish in Alpena due to a “leave of absence for personal reasons.” What then followed was an all too familiar scene: one or more priests being shuffled to cover for the missing priest. The circumstances revolving Fr. Bischoff’s leaving his post were not brought forth.
This situation is simply not sustainable in our Diocese. The current remedy of recruiting foreign priests is not meeting the need nor able to offer a reasonable long term solution to the problem. The ultimate solution to this problem is the growth of vocations from strong Catholic families within the Diocese. This is a simple answer, and it’s not very complicated. It involves strong catechesis starting from the pulpit followed by inspirational leadership of the Bishop and clergy. Combined with prayer, fasting, and financial support of the faithful, this dire situation can readily be resolved.
The other approach to this problem of vocations is closing parishes. If the current situation continues in its current path, there will be no option but to close churches.
Currently there are four active seminarians and one on a health sabbatical. Three of the four active seminarians are from one parish: Holy Rosary Church in Cedar. Does the Diocese get it?
Let us pray for vocations.