New for 2026: A Silent Auction at IHMS’s Bishops & Rector Dinner

The annual Bishops & Rector Dinner is just around the corner. Excitement is building for an evening that celebrates our seminarians and honors this year’s Immaculate Heart of Mary Award recipient, University of Mary President Monsignor James Patrick Shea. Known nationally for his leadership and his remarkable academic and pastoral journey, Monsignor Shea will deliver the keynote address, a highlight you won’t want to miss. The dinner will be held on Friday April 17, 2026, at Rochester International Event Center with doors opening at 4:30 pm. 

New this year is a silent auction designed to bring a little extra joy and friendly competition to the night. One of the featured items is a truly unforgettable experience: a dinner for four with Bishop Robert Barron and the Vicar General, Very Reverend Will Thompson. The meal will be prepared and hosted personally by Fr. Thompson. Additional auction items include everything from a ladies’ night in, Watkins seasonings, admission tickets to the Minnesota Marine Art Museum, priority seating for next year’s dinner, local restaurant gift cards, signed Word on Fire books, and so much more. The deadline to register is April 1. If you haven’t registered yet, you can register online here or by calling 507-858-1275. This is a grace-filled evening you won’t want to miss. 

A Sampling of the Silent Auction Items 

Gift Cards Galore 

Many thanks to the local businesses who donated gift cards for us to include in our silent auction. Here is our current list. If your business would like to add a gift card, please reach out to us today at info@catholicsmn.org or 507-858-1275. 

• Acoustic Cafe, Winona 

• Beno’s Deli, Winona 

• Blooming Grounds, Winona 

• Pieces of the Past, Winona 

• Sapori di Sicilia, Winona 

Homemade Dinner with Bishop & Vicar General 

Enjoy an evening to remember as the Very Reverend Will Thompson welcomes you into his home and prepares a homemade meal for you and your guests. Bishop Barron joins the table for warm conversation, good stories, and an unhurried night of hospitality. This is a rare chance to savor great food, unwind in a comfortable setting, and share a memorable dinner with two beloved leaders of our diocese. Thank you to Bishop Barron and Fr. Thompson for donating the meal and their time. 

Ground in Love and Coffee 

Enjoy a taste of Winona’s favorite cafés with a curated collection of local coffee shop gift cards, perfect for slow Saturday mornings or treating a friend. This bundle also includes a Blooming Grounds tumbler and a bag of their fresh coffee grounds, giving you everything you need for a cozy cup at home or on the go. It’s a relaxing way to savor the best of Winona’s coffee scene. 

Faith on Fire: A Signed Bishop Barron Collection 

Take home a beautifully curated set of three Word on Fire books- a Word on Fire bible, Catholicism, and The Great Story of Israel- each personally signed and donated by Bishop Robert Barron. This collection brings together his most compelling spiritual insights and makes a meaningful addition to any home library. Whether you’re a longtime follower of Bishop Barron’s work or discovering his writing for the first time, these signed editions offer a thoughtful, inspiring keepsake  

Priority Seating to 2027 Bishops & Rector Dinner 

Secure some of the best seats in the house for one of the most anticipated evenings of the year. This priority seating package ensures you and your guests enjoy a premier view of the program, a relaxed dining experience, and an effortless start to a memorable night. It’s the perfect way to elevate your 2027 Bishops & Rector Dinner experience. 

Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary Must-Haves 

We all love our seminarians; you wouldn’t be reading this if you didn’t! Why not show your support for our seminary with this basket of IHMS merchandise. From a fleece jacket and crewneck to a water bottle, travel mug, and ball cap, you will be prepared for any occasion. Jacket or crewneck not in your size? Not to worry! Exchanges can be made with the Catholic Foundation team before the end of the evening.  

Classic Watkins Kitchen Collection 

Donated by one of the oldest businesses in Winona, Watkins brings a touch of timeless flavor to your pantry with this trio of Watkins favorites: a bottle of their rich vanilla extract and two classic tins of ground pepper and cinnamon. It’s a charming, old‑fashioned set that adds both quality and character to everyday cooking and baking. This is a perfect pick for anyone who loves a well‑stocked, well‑seasoned kitchen. 

Two Christmas-Themed Baskets 

Who can’t use another Christmas soap, decoration, towels, gift wrappings, tableware and more? Two baskets are of this theme: one Santa themed, the other Holstein cow themed! These two baskets were donated by Williams Properties of Owatonna and Ken & Lisa Kern. 

Time to Take Care of Mama 

We all know a mom out there who deserves a girls night in. This fun basket includes a wine tasting kit and the wine as well as a host of other self-care goodies from a journal to a cord organizer. This basket was donated by Shelton & Elizabeth Williams. 

Minnesota Marine Art Museum Admission for Two 

Enjoy a peaceful day in Winona with two admission tickets to the Minnesota Marine Art Museum (MMAM). Thank you to the Museum for donating! Explore stunning galleries and one of the region’s most beloved cultural destinations. It’s a perfect outing for art lovers, weekend wanderers, or anyone who enjoys a quiet, beautiful escape along the river. Already visited the MMAM? This museum features rotating exhibits, so you’re sure to always find something new! 

Another Heartfelt Thank You 

While you’re reading, we also wanted to thank Maxon Family Cremation and Life Celebrations of Rochester for being our inaugural Aquinas sponsor, Ed-Ventures of Rochester for sponsoring our new annual bookmark keepsake, and Premier Banks for an event beautifying floral arrangement sponsorship. 

Donations & Sponsorships Still Welcome 

There’s still time to add your business or family’s donation to our first annual silent auction or any type of sponsorship. Reach out to the Catholic Foundation today to sign up. We’re happy to come pick the item(s) up from you!  

info@catholicsmn.org or 507-858-1275.