On June 22, 2019, Bishop William Patrick Callahan ordained Deacons Ethan Hokamp and Brandon Guenther to the Priesthood of Jesus Christ. On the following Sunday, each new priest returned to their home parishes to celebrate their first Masses. Father Hokamp returned to Our Lady Queen of Heaven Parish in Wisconsin Rapids and Father Guenther returned to Ss. Peter and Paul Parish in Independence.
Father Ethan Hokamp looks forward to being an instrument through which God can work to draw others to Himself. He attended St. John Vianney College Seminary in St. Paul, Minn. and the Pontifical North American College in Rome. After ordination he will serve as Associate Pastor of St. Charles Borromeo Parish in Chippewa Falls and St. Peter Parish in Tilden, and Chaplain at McDonell Middle School and High School in Chippewa Falls.
Father Brandon Guenther found his calling in his experience with Catholic school and serving Mass. Some of his teachers and his pastor encouraged him to think about the priesthood; he joined the high school seminary his sophomore year. From there God slowly confirmed his call, especially through the Mass. He attended St. John Vianney Seminary in St. Paul, Minn. and the Pontifical North American College in Rome. After ordination he will serve as Associate Pastor of St. Bronislava Parish in Plover and Chaplain at Pacelli Middle School and High School in Stevens Point.
A full feature article will be in the September/October issue of Catholic Life.
Below is the video of the ordination Mass. You can view, share and download the photos. If the photos are used in a publication, please give attribution to The Diocese of La Crosse. Thank you.