HAYS, Kan. (AP) After 134 years of service, the Capuchin-Franciscan friars will return the ministry of a Hays parish to the Diocese of Salina.
The Mid-America Province of Capuchins will continue to serve St. Joseph’s Parish until new Bishop Edward J. Weisenburger appoints a new pastor.
The Salina Journal reports the friars will continue serving parishes in Victoria, Catherine, Antonino, Schoenchen, Walker and Vincent. They also will continue to help with Catholic education at Thomas More Prep-Marian and rest home and retreat ministries.
The Capuchins arrived in western Kansas to serve German immigrants and eventually expanded into other ministries.