It is hard to believe that this month of June marks 45 years of priesthood, including five years as a bishop. Reflecting on my journey as a priest — and on my years as the bishop of Duluth — fills my heart with profound gratitude. These milestones are not merely markers of time; they are reminders of rich experiences, cherished memories and the countless souls I’ve encountered along the way.

As I look back, I fondly remember my early years in Manitowoc, Wisconsin. As a newly ordained priest, those formative days were filled with enthusiasm and a yearning to serve. It was there that I learned from a wonderful priest mentor, Father Leo Schmitt, and ministered alongside a lifelong best friend, Jeff Vanden Heuvel. 

I would later return to Manitowoc to merge six parishes into the new parish of St. Francis of Assisi. Family and friends in Manitowoc will always hold a special place in my heart.

After serving as a priest in Manitowoc, I was sent to Rome to study theology and communications. Living and studying in Rome for three years helped me gain a greater appreciation for the universal Church. One especially significant memory from that time was the opportunity to meet St. John Paul II three times.

After Rome, I was assigned as a first time pastor at St. Raphael the Archangel Parish in Oshkosh (“b’gosh”), Wisconsin. During my time there, we built a new church. Seeing that I could identify a hammer two out of three times, I was blessed to work alongside a vibrant community that taught me the value of collaboration in ministry, especially in building projects.

Along the way, I also had the privilege of returning as a pastor to my home parish in Mackville, Wisconsin, along with the parishes in Freedom and Greenville. Being welcomed back into the parish that nurtured my faith and once called me Danny was a humbling honor. Time spent with my parents, family and parish members reminded me of my roots, the journey that brought me to this point and the countless people who have supported me throughout my priesthood.

Finally, my years as the vicar general of the Diocese of Green Bay were pivotal. This role deepened my understanding of the greater Church and the intricate workings of diocesan life. I had the privilege of serving Bishop David Ricken, and little did I know that all of these parish and chancery experiences were the Holy Spirit’s way of preparing me to be the 10th bishop of the Diocese of Duluth.

Now, as I reflect on my five years as the bishop of Duluth, I am filled with gratitude for the incredible support and love I have received. 
The people of Duluth have shown me resilience, hope and unwavering faith. Together, we have weathered challenges and celebrated triumphs, and I am deeply thankful for the journey and mission that we share of bringing the healing, hope and joy of Jesus to all people.  

It is humbling, as I reflect on the many steps of my priestly journey, to see how — even though the Holy Spirit revealed only one step at a time — all those steps now converge into a seamless trail of awe, gratitude and love.

I am profoundly grateful for all who have been a part of this God journey. Thank you for your love, support and faith in me. As I move forward, I carry each of you in my heart and soul.