Bishop Richard Travels to North Dakota

Bishop Richard journeyed to North Dakota for the celebration of the centennial of the establishment of the Diocese of Bismarck from Friday, June 11, until Sunday, June 13.

St. Nicholas Eparchy has four parishes within the geographic confines of that diocese:St. Demetrius in Fairfield; St. John the Baptist in Belfield; St. Peter and Paul in Wilton; and St. Michael in Minot.

In October, 2006, the Bishop of Bismarck, the Most Rev. Paul A. Zipfel, participated in the centennial celebrations for St. Demetrius Parish. The events in Bismarck occurred over a three-day period at the Bismarck Civic Center. It was estimated that over 8,000 people converged on the Civic Center for the celebration.

Bishop Richard and Fr. Taras Miles concelebrated with the bishop of Bismarck and the priests of the Diocese at the Saturday Mass. Speakers from across the United States addressed a wide range of topics including evangelization, catechetics, and right-to-life issues. A video presentation highlighted all the parishes within the Diocese of Bismarck, including the Ukrainian Parishes, as well.

Various displays throughout the Civic Center narrated the history of the diocese. An official history book in full color was made available for purchase. The highlight of the celebration was the concelebrated Pontifical Mass on Sunday afternoon.

Most Rev John C. Nienstedt, Archbishop of St. Paul and Minneapolis presided. Bismarck Bishop Paul A. Zipfel preached. Other bishops concelebrating included a former Bishop of Bismarck, Bishop John P. Kinney of St. Cloud, Minnesota; Bishop Samuel J. Aquilla of Fargo, North Dakota; Bishop Richard (Seminack) and other area bishops.