PRAYERS FOR THE HALLBACH FAMILY: As Well as the Avery Family, and the Good People of Rural Manitowoc and Calumet Counties!

Dear Friends,

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The members of Old Saint Joseph Church gathered in prayer on Sunday morning -- as we do every Sunday morning -- and on this particular weekend, we took the opportunity to pray for the good of the Teresa Hallbach family and all those involved in the court proceedings at the Calumet County Court House. The Norbertine Community of Saint Joseph Priory also gathered tonight as we watched the verdict unfold at 6:00 PM.

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While there is sadness and loss experienced profoundly with the Hallbach's and the Avery's, we must trust that #1., Teresa is at peace, and #2., that God's justice and mercy will prevail -- sometimes in ways we do not always readily understand.

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But in the meantime, I give thanks to Mike Hallbach, Teresa's sister. Mike serves as one of the videographers for the Green Bay Packers. He joins Bob Eckberg, Chris Kirby and Andy Muckerheide in running a pretty impressive department at 1265 Lombardi Avenue. Over these past 17 months, I have been in awe of Mike and his family. The inherit goodness, faith and love of Mike and his family has been contagious. I feel blessed to know these very good people.

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As more court proceedings are outstanding, we realize that this journey is not yet complete. As such, we continue to commend all involved to our prayers with the hope that God will continue to do what God does best. We keep all involved in our thoughts and prayers knowing that, "God's flock is in your midst; give it a shepherd's care!"

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Father James Baraniak, O. Praem.