March 29, 2024

Since publication of the previous Bishop’s Bulletin, the Most Reverend Donald E. DeGrood decreed the following priest assignment changes effective on August 10, 2020:

Reverend Mark Axtmann, in addition to his current assignment of chaplain at Avera St. Luke’s Hospital, to sacramental minister at St. Mary Parish, Aberdeen, and

Reverend Andrew Thuringer, from parochial vicar at St. Mary Parish, Aberdeen, to chaplain at O’Gorman High School, sacramental minister at Cathedral of Saint Joseph Parish, and discernment assistant for the Vocations Office.

In addition, the Most Reverend Donald E. DeGrood granted personal leave from assigned ministry to Reverend Joseph Scholten effective July 28, 2020.

Finally, in a decree dated August 10, the Most Reverend Donald E. DeGrood lifted the general dispensation from the Sunday Mass obligation that had been previously granted to all Catholics on March 17, 2020. Effective August 17, 2020, the dispensation remains in effect only for those who are at increased risk for severe illness (from the COVID-19 virus) and for those responsible for the care of individuals who are at increased risk of severe illness.

Respectfully submitted,

Matthew K. Althoff
Chancellor