The Salt & Light Fund

Established in 2026, the Salt and Light Fund is a permanent endowment created to meet the changing needs of the people of the Diocese of Winona–Rochester. Built on diocesan‑wide listening exercises, the fund directs support to the most timely and most important Catholic priorities identified by our Foundation Board every four to five years. Learn more about our most recently listening exercise and resulting strategic plan priorities here.

How Priorities Are Set

The Foundation conducts a diocesan-wide listening exercise every three to five years. Board reviews insights gathered from priests, parish leaders, donors, and diocesan ministries to discern where the greatest needs exist. These priorities shift over time, allowing the fund to respond to emerging challenges and opportunities across Southern Minnesota.

What the Fund Supports

Because priorities evolve, the Salt and Light Fund has the flexibility to support a wide range of Catholic needs, including:

Seminarian education and formation
Evangelization and discipleship initiatives
Food shelves and hunger relief
Family assistance and crisis support
Parish and school needs aligned with diocesan and the Bishop's priorities

This adaptability ensures that donor gifts make a lasting impact where it matters most.

2026-2030 Priorities

Tier 1:

Long Term Financial Stability of Catholic Institutions
Catholic Identity, Evangelism & Formation

Tier 2:

Priestly Vocations
Economic Strain on Families and Workers
Mental Health, Social Isolation and Pastoral Care

Applications for grants expect to be accepted in 2027 or 2028. More information will be available at that time about the application process and deadlines to apply.

Why It Matters

The Salt and Light Fund strengthens the Church’s mission by directing resources to the areas of greatest need: whether spiritual, educational, or humanitarian. It allows Catholics across the diocese to support meaningful work that reflects the Gospel and responds to real challenges facing our communities.

Make an Impact

Your generosity helps the Church remain responsive, hopeful, and present to those who need it most. A gift to the Salt and Light Fund becomes a long‑term investment in the future of our parishes, families, and ministries.