Msgr. Winterer nominated for award from Catholic Extension

Intermountain Catholic

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Monsignor Michael J. Winterer, shown here preaching a homily during Lent at Saint Gertrude Mission in Panguitch, is known for his kindness and missionary spirit. IC file photo

SALT LAKE CITY — For almost 50 years, Msgr. Michael J. Winterer has dedicated himself to Catholic missions in Utah. Now he is among the 14 individuals who have been nominated for the 2011 Lumen Christi Award, given by Catholic Extension "to an individual working to help strengthen communities located in the poorest, most isolated regions of America."

Msgr. Winterer, who will retire in July, currently serves as pastor of Christ the King Parish in Cedar City, with its associated missions: Saint Dominic in Bryce Canyon, Our Lady of the Light in Beaver, San Sylvester in Escalante, Saint Gertrude in Panguitch and Saint Christopher in Kanab, as well as the stations in Brian Head and Duck Creek. According to his nomination, "He travels hundreds of miles each week to offer Mass and instruction as well as supporting the various communities in Southern Utah. Msgr. is not only committed to the physical development of the missions, but to the spiritual enrichment as well. He provides retreats, days of recollection and spiritual direction."

Diocese of Salt Lake City Vicar General Monsignor J. Terrence Fitzgerald compares Msgr. Winterer’s missionary spirit to that of apostles Barnabas and Paul, who walked long distances in sometimes adverse conditions to establish Christian communities.

"Msgr. Winterer has given not only a period of time but his entire life to the missionary effort of the Catholic Church in Utah," Msgr. Fitzgerald said. "He knows how to empower the people so that they truly own the community that is being formed in faith; he helps establish an identity to the community so that in time they can truly be Church."

In the 34 years since the Lumen Christi Award was established, one Utah priest has been the recipient. Dominican Father Joseph Valine, now deceased, received the award in 1988. Fr. Valine started a number of missions in the Beehive State,

This is not the first recognition that Msgr. Winterer has received from Catholic Extension: he was profiled as a Hidden Hero in 2004 and also featured in the article ‘Some Catholics Celebrate Sunday Mass in Unusual Places’ that same year.

"There’s a famous picture of him celebrating Mass out of the back of a pickup truck; they’re out in the middle of a field because they can’t get to another place for Mass," said Michael Lee, director of the diocese’s pastoral operations. "It shows his dedication to the missions, to bring Mass to wherever the people are."

Catholic Extension published that photo nationally.

The Lumen Christi Award is accompanied by a $50,000 grant; the winner and the nominating diocese each receive $25,000 to further their ministry.