At Immaculate Heart Parish in Crosslake, generosity has become more than a tradition — it’s part of their mission. Each December, parishioners rally around a single cause through their annual “Open Your Heart” campaign, a theme that has supported everything from Catholic schools to local outreach efforts. This year, however, their focus on the diocesan Priest Care and Formation Fund sparked an unprecedented outpouring of support — raising an astonishing $152,000.

The theme resonated deeply. Parishioners across the mission field — which includes Immaculate Heart in Crosslake, St. Emily’s in Emily and Our Lady of the Lakes in Pequot Lakes — have watched many priests come and go over the years. They understand firsthand how essential a healthy, well-supported priesthood is to a thriving parish and understand priests need care, too.

Co-chairs Jim and Diane Lee and Kelly and Mary Conger, along with many volunteers who coordinated games and prepared food, helped transform that recognition into action.

Rather than hosting a single event, leaders strategically planned multiple fundraisers to maximize engagement. The initiative began in November with an intimate gathering at Father Tony Wroblewski’s rectory. Guests enjoyed hors d’oeuvres, lively games and a surprisingly playful side of their clergy. Highlights included a “human slot machine,” Bishop Felton singing and playing the boomba for donations and Father Tony himself donning a blonde wig to perform John Denver songs. The evening raised roughly $50,000, boosted by a generous $25,000 match.

The main gala followed in December, filling the parish hall with 240 attendees. Featuring dinner, silent auctions and interactive games, the evening generated another $75,000, bringing the running total to $152,000.

Momentum continued in the spring with a third event at Cana Wine Bar in Crosby. Hosted by St. Joseph’s parishioners Mark and Kolly Hudrlik, the wine tasting raised additional funds — reaching $50,000 as of May, with a goal of reaching $75,000. The wine bar showcases a striking visual display by Deacon Jim Kirzeder, depicting water being transformed into wine — a beautiful reminder of the miracle at Cana.

Critical to the campaign’s success was strong promotion and the integration of online giving, allowing supporters to participate from afar. Organizers now aim to build on this momentum, exploring ways to sustain and expand support for the Priest Care and Formation Fund across the diocese.

This fund plays a vital role in ensuring priests receive ongoing formation, as well as medical and emotional care. It also supports retired clergy, enabling them to remain active in ministry and continue sharing their wisdom.

Through creativity, collaboration and a shared sense of purpose, Immaculate Heart Parish has shown what’s possible when a community truly opens its heart.