Fr. Thomas Richstatter, OFM, MA, MSL, STD 

Summary

I am a Franciscan, a member of the Order of Friars Minor of the Province of Saint John the Baptist (since 1957) and a Roman Catholic priest (since 1966).  I have devoted most of my life to the study and teaching of liturgy and sacramental theology.  Following my studies for the priesthood at St. Leonard College, Dayton OH, I studied at the University of Notre Dame in Indiana (MA in Theology, 1971).  After teaching high school for five years, I studied liturgy and sacramental theology in Paris, France at the Institut Supérieur de Liturgie (MSL, 1974) and at the Institut Catholique where I obtained the doctorate in Theological Sciences with a specialization in Liturgy and Sacramental Theology (STD, 1976).  After serving at Executive Secretary of the Federation of Diocesan Liturgical Commissions (1981-1983), I came to Saint Meinrad School of Theology in Indiana, where I am currently Professor of Liturgy and Sacramental Theology.  Many of my books and articles and video's have been published by St. Anthony Messenger Press.  I am a member of the Canon Law Society of America, the North American Academy of Liturgy, the Catholic Academy of Liturgy, the Societas Liturgica, and the American Franciscan Liturgical Commission.  In 1999 I was elected to the Provincial Council of St. John the Baptist Province for a three year term.  

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Short Autobiography

I was born in 1939, the fourth child of a devout Roman Catholic family. When I was in the third grade I decided that I wanted to be a priest like the priests I saw daily at my home parish, St. Anthony's, in Wichita, Kansas. I entered the Franciscan Order in 1957, professed Solemn Vows in 1961, and received a BA from Duns Scotus College, Detroit MI, in 1962. During my college years I became very interested in liturgy and music and begin studies which would prepare me to teach liturgical music after ordination. I studied theology and ministry at St. Leonard College, Dayton OH, and was ordained to the presbyterate in 1966. I was then assigned to teach religion and speech at St. Francis High School Seminary in Cincinnati OH, 1966-1971.

During the years immediately following the Second Vatican Council, I became deeply involved in the renewal of parish liturgy. As a member of the Cincinnati Archdiocesan Liturgical Commission I gave many talks and workshops to clergy and parish groups. Studying during the summers, I received an MA in theology from the University of Notre Dame.

My interest in the renewal of parish liturgy led me to pursue doctoral studies in liturgy and sacramental theology. In 1971 I went to Paris, France, where I obtained a master's degree in liturgy (1974) and the Doctorate in Theological Sciences with specialization in Liturgy and Sacramental Theology, magna cum laude (July 5, 1976). I returned to St. Leonard Seminary in Dayton, OH and taught liturgy and sacramental theology to our Franciscan seminarians until the seminary closed in 1981. In addition to teaching seminarians, I spent much of my time in the continuing education of Roman Catholic clergy and in the preparation of lay liturgical ministers. I was also director of liturgy and music for the seminary chapel, and was the first pastor of what has become the "St. Leonard Parish Community."

In 1981 I became Executive Secretary of the Federation of Diocesan Liturgical Commissions with offices in Washington DC. Following several years as an administrator, I decided to return to full-time teaching. Since 1984 I have been employed by Saint Meinrad School of Theology (Indiana). In May of 1992 I received continuing appointment (tenure) and in April of 1994 I was promoted to the rank of Professor. I currently teach liturgy and sacramental theology. In May 1999 I was elected to the Provincial Council, the governing board of the Cincinnati Province of Franciscans.  In 2004 the focus of my teaching at Saint Meinrad shifted from the transitional deacons to the lay ministry program. 

I enjoy writing and lecturing. I have published over one hundred books and articles, together with video and audio cassettes. Among my most recent publications are: The Sacraments: How Catholics Pray, and a text for Junior High School students, Liturgy and Worship: A Course on Prayer and Sacraments, published by William H. Sadlier, Inc, New York. A new and exciting project for me is assisting in the production of catechetical videos published by St. Anthony Messenger Press. I have participated in twelve programs, including "A Walk Through The Mass," "The Church Celebrates the Reconciling God," and "Planning Your Wedding Liturgy".  During the Year of the Eucharist I wrote a monthly newsletter with a circulation of over 250,000 subscriptions.  These articles are currently being expanded into a book Eucharist:  Jesus With Us (Saint Anthony Messenger Press, Fall 2006)

My childhood desire to be a parish priest is fulfilled by a very active participation in my local parish, St. Paul's in Tell City, Indiana. I continue to enjoy music, foreign languages, working out at the gym, and using computer technology for distance learning.

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Memberships

Publications.  See also Saint Anthony Messenger Press

Saint Meinrad School of Theology

Franciscan Province of Saint John the Baptist

Federation of Diocesan Liturgical Commissions

Canon Law Society of America

North American Academy of Liturgy

Catholic Academy of Liturgy

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Publications

1. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. Liturgical Law Today: New Style, New Spirit. Chicago: Franciscan Herald Press, 1977.

2. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "General Intercessions," New Catholic Encyclopedia. vol 17, 1978. p 241.

3. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Liturgical Experimentation," New Catholic Encyclopedia. vol 17, 1978. p 357.

4. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Liturgical Laws, Authority of," New Catholic Encyclopedia. vol 17, 1978. p 358.

5. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Liturgical Rites," New Catholic Encyclopedia. vol 17, 1978. pp 364-365.

6. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Liturgy (Structural Elements)," New Catholic Encyclopedia. vol 17, 1978. pp 371-372.

7. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Rubrics," New Catholic Encyclopedia. vol 17, 1978. p 589.

8. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Silence in Worship," New Catholic Encyclopedia. vol 17, 1978. p 610.

9. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Solemn Blessing and Prayer over the People," New Catholic Encyclopedia. vol 17, 1978. p 620.

10. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. Today's Liturgy: New Style, New Spirit. Five, sixty minute audio cassettes. Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, 1978.

11. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Changing Styles of Liturgical law." The Jurist. 38:3/4 (Summer/Fall 1978) 415-425. Reprinted in Liturgy 70 10:8 (November 1979) 2-6. Reprinted in Liturgy, 10:8 (November 1979), pp 2-6.

12. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Parish Liturgy: Questions I'd Like to Ask," Catholic Update, Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, 1979. Order number UPD 119.

13. Committee for Franciscan Liturgical Research. [Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M., executive secretary.] Entering the Order of Friars Minor: Background Information and Liturgical Guidelines. Pulaski WI: Franciscan Publishers, 1979.

14. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Your Parish Church: How Should It Look Today?" Catholic Update, Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, November 1980.

15. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Why Lay Ministers at Sunday Mass?" Catholic Update, Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, January 1981. Order number UPD 011.

16. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. The Sacraments: The Church at Prayer. Ten, thirty minute audio cassettes. Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, 1981.

17. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. The Sacraments: The Church at Prayer. Ten, twenty-eight minute teacher training programs on video cassette. Archdiocese of Cincinnati Cable TV Communications Office, 1981.

18. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Holy Orders: What is the Priest's Role Today?" Catholic Update, Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, June 1981.

19. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "How to Participate More Actively in the Mass." Catholic Update, Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, August 1982.

20. FDLC Newsletter. Bi-monthly newsletter of the Federation of Diocesan Liturgical Commissions. I wrote and edited volume 8:5 through 10:3, July 1981 to June 1983. Washington DC: Federation of Diocesan Liturgical Commissions Publications.

21. The Challenge of Change: The Visual Dimension of Worship. I collaborated in the in writing of this twenty-three minute film and appeared in it. Pretty Pictures, Inc. Ontario: Maison Bouvrier. September 1983. 16mm, 3/4" video, ½ Beta or VHS formats.

22. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Changes in the Mass." Modern Liturgy 10:8 (November 1983) 4-5.

23. Bishops' Committee on the Liturgy. Study Text 2: Pastoral Care of the Sick: Rites of Anointing and Viaticum (Revised Edition). Washington DC: Publications Office USCC. 1984. [I wrote the revised edition.]

24. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "The New Rite for Anointing the Sick." Catholic Update, Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, 1984.
Text available at: http://www.americancatholic.org/Newsletters/CU/ac0196.asp

25. Canon Law Society of America. The Code of Canon Law: A Text and Commentary. New York: Paulist Press. 1985. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Sacred Places and Times," Commentary on canons 1205-1253.

26. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. Praying Your Way Through Lent. Four, thirty minute audio cassettes. Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, 1986.

27. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Rituals: Alternative Futures for the Eucharist," in Alternative Futures for Worship, Vol 3: Eucharist, pp 117-155. (Bernard J. Lee, Editor), Collegeville: Liturgical Press, 1987.

28. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. Would You Like to be Anointed? Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, 1987.

29. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. The Reconciliation of Penitents: A Study of the Structural Elements of the Communal Rite of Penance. Washington: Federation of Diocesan Liturgical Commissions, 1987.

30. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Instituted Lay Ministries: the History and Future of Canon 230," Proceedings of the Forty-Ninth Annual Convention of the Canon Law Society of America, pp 35-44. Washington, DC: Canon Law Society of America, 1987.

31. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Baptismal Homilies for the Sundays of Lent: Cycle A and the RCIA," Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, 1988.

32. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. Would You Like to be Anointed? (Audio cassette) Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, 1988.

33. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Homilies for the Twenty-fourth Week of the Year II," Weekday Homily Helps. Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, 1988.

34. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Valid and Lawful? Fully Effective!" Pastoral Music, April-May 1989, pp 19-20.

35. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "A Walk Through the Mass: Catholic Update, Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, August, 1989. CU 0889.
Text available at: http://www.americancatholic.org/Newsletters/CU/ac0889.asp

35 (Spanish). Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Siguiendo La Misa: Explicaci ón de cada paso" Catholic Update en Español, Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, Revisado en 2002. SPC0889

 [As of July 7, 1999, this Update has sold more than 1,600,000 copies. It has been translated into Spanish by Mrs. Ana Maria Alvarado as "A Walk Through the Mass: A Step-by Step Explanation." It was reprinted in ZARJA, the official publication of the Slovenian Women's Union of America.]

36. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. Before You Say 'I Do': Four Things to Remember When Planning Your Wedding Liturgy. Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, 1989. ISBN 0-86716-130-2. $1.95.

37. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Introducing the Mass: What do our actions at Sunday worship really mean?" Catholic Digest, December 1989, pp 85-90. [Condensed from Catholic Update.]

38. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Lent: A 40-Day Retreat: Rediscovering Your Baptismal Call," Catholic Update, Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, February 1990. CU 0290

39. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "The Gift of Reconciliation: Ten Tips for Better Confessions," Catholic Update, Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, August 1990. CU 0890.

39.  (Spanish). Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. “El Don de la Reconciliación: Diez Consejos para Mejores Confesiones” Catholic Update en Español, Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, Revisado en 2003. SPC0890.

40. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Ministry School, Liturgy In," pp 837-842, in The New Dictionary of Sacramental Worship, (Peter E. Fink, S.J., Editor), Collegeville: The Liturgical Press, A Michael Glazier Book, 1990. ISBN 0-8146-5788-5. $69.50.

41. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "A Tour of a Catholic Church," Catholic Update, Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, March 1991. C0391.

42. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Liturgy: Why I Go to Church," Faith Notes, St. Meinrad: Abbey Press, 1991.

43. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Lay Ministry: Not Just for a Chosen Few," Catholic Update, Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, August, 1991. CU 0891. [May 11, 1992, National Catholic Press Association, Best article originating in a magazine, second place award.]

43 (Spanish). Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Ministerio Laico no Sólo para unos pocos elegidos," Catholic Update en Español, Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, Revisado en 2002. SPC0891.

44. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Lay Ministry: For More Than a Chosen Few," St. Anthony Messenger, 99:3 (August, 1991) pp 28-33.

[May 28, 1993, Catholic Press Association award for general-interest newsletter, Best Article, second place to Catholic Update, April 1992, "Our Holiest Week." July 1, 1993, Cincinnati Editors Association Publication Contest, writing, feature, or newsletter. First place for Our Holiest Week: Practical Guide for the Holy Week Liturgy. As of October 10, 2005 the article had sold 1,233,361 copies.]

46. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Getting the Most out of Holy Week," St. Anthony Messenger, 99:11 (April, 1992) pp 28-33.

47. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "The Sacrament of the Eucharist: What Has Happened to My Devotion?" Catholic Update, Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, September, 1992. CU 0992. [Reprinted in The St. Augustine Catholic, Volume IX, number 5, April/May 2000.]

48. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "What the Eucharist Means--Still" Catholic Digest, December 1992 pp 32-37.

49. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Trinity: How We Experience God," Faith Note 23031-8, St. Meinrad: Abbey Press, September, 1992.

50. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Sacraments: It All Starts with Jesus," Catholic Update, Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, August, 1993. C0893.
Text available at: http://www.americancatholic.org/Newsletters/CU/ac0893.asp

51. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Sacraments, Jesus is the Starting Point," St. Anthony Messenger, 101:3 (August, 1993) pp 23-27.

52. Thomas Richstatter, "Liturgy and Life: Ten Things I Learned About The Mass," Catechist, 27:3 (November/December 1993), pp 42-47.

53. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Who Will Be Saved? A Catholic View of Salvation" Catholic Update, Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, April, 1994. C0494.
Text available at: http://www.americancatholic.org/Newsletters/CU/ac0494.asp

53 (Spanish). Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "¿ Quién se salvará?: Creencias católicas sobre la salvación" Catholic Update en EspaZol, Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, Revisado en 2002. SPC0494.

[During the Summer of 1994 St. Anthony Messenger informed me that their orders for various issues of Catholic Update which I had written had exceeded 10,000,000 copies.]

54. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Inside a Catholic Church: What's There and Why?" Youth Update, Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, October, 1994. Y1094. 

55. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Spirituality of the Seasons: Moving Around the Mystery," St. Anthony Messenger, 102:8 (January, 1995) p 57.

56. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Spirituality of the Seasons: Sunday, the First Feast Day," St. Anthony Messenger, 102:9 (February, 1995) p 56.

57. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Spirituality of the Seasons: Baptism, the Gift of Lent" St. Anthony Messenger, 102:10 (March, 1995) p 57.

58. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "The Dialogue between Liturgy and Catechesis," Assembly, 21:1 (March 1995) pp 664-665.

59. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Spirituality of the Seasons: Triduum: How Much Love," St. Anthony Messenger, 102:11 (April, 1995) p 56.

60. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Spirituality of the Seasons: The Great 50 Days of Easter," St. Anthony Messenger, 102:12 (May, 1995) p 56.

61. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Infant Baptism: Gift to the Parish," Catholic Update, Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, May, 1995. C0595.

61.  (Spanish). Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. “El Bautismo de Niños: Regalo a la Parroquiao” Catholic Update en Español, Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press,. SPC0595

62. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Spirituality of the Seasons: Holy Spirit: Leading to Love," St. Anthony Messenger, 103:1 (June, 1995) p 57.

63. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. The Sacraments: How Catholics Pray. Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, June, 1995.  Available from Amazon.com

65. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. Teaching segment and theological consultant for Eucharist: Celebrating Christ Present, Catholic Update Video, St. Anthony Messenger Press, July, 1995. Order # 2020.

66. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. Teaching segment and theological consultant for Adult Baptism: Exploring Its Meaning, Catholic Update Video, St. Anthony Messenger Press, July, 1995. Order # 2030. 

[These three videos were awarded the "Certificate of Honorable Mention" by the Film Council of Greater Columbus, a.k.a. The Chris Awards, 1995. Winning this coveted Chris Award qualifies a film to be eligible to compete for the "Oscar" in the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences short documentary category.]

67. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Spirituality of the Seasons: The Challenge of Ordinary Times," St. Anthony Messenger, 103:2 (July, 1995) p 57.

68. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "The Lectionary and the Liturgical Year: How Catholics Read Scripture," Scripture from Scratch, Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, July, 1995.  Text available at http://www.americancatholic.org/Newsletters/SFS/an0795.asp

69. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Spirituality of the Seasons: Mary: The First Disciple" St. Anthony Messenger, 103:3 (August, 1995) p 56.

70. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Spirituality of the Seasons: Holidays and Holy Days," St. Anthony Messenger, 103:4 (September, 1995) p 57.

71. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Spirituality of the Seasons: Saints for Every Season," St. Anthony Messenger, 103:5 (October, 1995) p 56.

73. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Why Are We Baptized as Infants?" Catholic Digest 60:1 (November 1995), pp 106-110. [Condensed from Catholic Update, C0595.] Reprinted in Presencia, as "¿Porque se nos Bautiza en la Infancia?"

74. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Spirituality of the Seasons: Awaiting a Gentle God," St. Anthony Messenger, 103:7 (December, 1995) p 56.

75. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Anointing the Sick: A Parish Sacrament," Catholic Update, Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, January, 1996. C0196.  Text available at http://www.americancatholic.org/Newsletters/CU/ac0196.asp

76. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. Teaching segment and theological consultant for Understanding the Sacraments, Catholic Update Video, St. Anthony Messenger Press, January, 1996.

77. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. Teaching segment and theological consultant for First Communion: Taking Your Place at the Table, Catholic Update Video, St. Anthony Messenger Press, January, 1996.

78. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. Teaching segment and theological consultant for Infant Baptism: A Gift to the Community, Catholic Update Video, St. Anthony Messenger Press, April, 1996.

79. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Sacrament of Marriage: Sign of Faithful Love," Catholic Update, Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, May, 1996. C0596.
Text available at: http://www.americancatholic.org/Newsletters/CU/ac0596.asp

80. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Confirmation: 7 Symbols in 1 Sacrament" Youth Update, Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, April, 1997. Y0497.  Text available at http://www.americancatholic.org/Newsletters/YU/ay0497.asp

81. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Sacrament of Holy Orders: Priesthood in Transition," Catholic Update, Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, July, 1997. C0797. 
Text available at: http://www.americancatholic.org/Newsletters/CU/ac0797.asp

This article won First Place in the Best essay, General interest newsletter category of the 1998 Catholic Press Awards.

82. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Priesthood Today," St. Anthony Messenger, 105:2 (July , 1997) pp 22-27.

83. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. Liturgy and Worship: Faith and Witness, A Course on Catholic Living. New York: William H. Sadlier, Inc, 1997.

This catechetical text has received not only the nihil obstat and imprimatur but also "The Ad Hoc Committee to Oversee the Use of the Catechism, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, has found this catechetical text to be in conformity with the Catechism of the Catholic Church."

84. Thomas Richstatter, "Wind, Fire, Spirit: Spirit and Liturgy," Catechist, (31:3) November / December 1997, pp. 46-50.

85. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Lent: Opening the Gifts of the Holy Spirit," Catholic Update, Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, February 1998, C0298.

86. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Pentecost: The Spirit Empowers Us," Millennium Monthly, Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, May 1998.  Text available at http://www.americancatholic.org/Newsletters/MM/ap0499.asp

87. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. Teaching segment and theological consultant for "The God Who Reconciles," Catholic Update Video, St. Anthony Messenger Press, June 1998. V2001 $39.95.

88. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Confirmation: Sacrament of the Spirit," Millennium Monthly, Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, August, 1998. P0898  Text available at http://www.americancatholic.org/Newsletters/MM/ap0898.asp

89. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. Teaching segment and theological consultant for "A Walk through the Mass", Catholic Update Video, St. Anthony Messenger Press, September 1998. V2060.

90. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. Teaching segment and theological consultant for "The Church Celebrates the Reconciling God," Catholic Update Video, St. Anthony Messenger Press, December 1998. V 2002.

91. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. Teaching segment and theological consultant for "Preparing your Child for First Reconciliation," Catholic Update Video, St. Anthony Messenger Press, December 1998. V 2003.

92. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Our Journey to the Father," Millennium Monthly, Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, March, 1999. P0399  Text available at http://www.americancatholic.org/Newsletters/MM/ap0399.asp

93. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Father Embraces Us," Millennium Monthly, Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, April, 1999. P0499

94. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Mass and Communion Service: What's the Difference?" Catholic Update, Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, September 1999, C0999.
Text available at: http://www.americancatholic.org/Newsletters/CU/ac0999.asp

This article won First Place in the Best essay, General interest newsletter category of the 2000 Catholic Press Awards.

95. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. Host, Witness and Teaching segments and theological consultant for "Planning Your Wedding Liturgy" Catholic Update Video, St. Anthony Messenger Press, January 2000. V2080.

[This video was a finalist in the 21st Annual Telly Awards]

96. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Eucharist: Sign and Source of Christian Unity" Catholic Update, Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, May 2000. C0500
Text available at: http://www.americancatholic.org/Newsletters/CU/ac0500.asp

97. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. Book Review of Islam Today: A Short Introduction to the Muslim World, by Akbar S. Ahmed, in St. Anthony Messenger, May 2000, pp 51-52.

98. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Eucharist: What Matters About the Mass" Catholic Digest, Vol 64 No 9 (July 2000), pp 26-31. (Reprinted in the Large Print Edition, Summer 2000, pp 6-14.)

98 (Spanish). Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "¿Qué tan importante es para ti la Misa?" Catholic Digest en EspaZol, número especial February 2003. pp 36-43.)

99. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "How to Celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation Today," Catholic Update, Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, August 2000. C0800
Text available at: http://www.americancatholic.org/Newsletters/CU/ac0800.asp

100. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Sacraments of Initiation, Sacraments of Invitation" Catholic Update, Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, March 2001. C0301
Text available at: http://www.americancatholic.org/Newsletters/CU/ac0301.asp

101. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Making Mass a Real Celebration:  Tips on Planning" Youth Update, Cincinnati:  St. Anthony Messenger Press, June, 2001.  Y0601.  Text available at http://www.americancatholic.org/Newsletters/YU/ay0601.asp

102. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Whose Wedding Is It, Anyway?" Catholic Digest, Vol 65 No 8 (June 2001) pp 92-95.

102 (Spanish). Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "¿Quiénes se casan??" Catholic Digest en EspaZol, número especial February 2003. pp 27-30.)

103. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. Teaching segment and theological consultant for "Sealed With God’s Spirit: Sacrament of Confirmation," Catholic Update Video, St. Anthony Messenger Press, October 2001. V2023.

104. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Franciscan Spirituality" Liturgical Ministry, Volume 10, Fall 2001, pp 206-208.

105. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Why I Go to Mass," Catholic Update, Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, August 2002. C0802

106. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Discipleship and the Moral Life: The Reality of Sin and Grace," Catechist, February 2, 2003 (36:5) pp 50-54.

107. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Forgiveness in Our Church Today: A Key to Healing," Catholic Update, Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, April 2003. C0403  See text on line at  http://www.americancatholic.org/Newsletters/CU/ac0403.asp

This article won First Place in the Best essay, General interest newsletter category of the 2004 Catholic Press Awards.  The citation reads:  "This essay is a wide ranging examination of the nature and process of contrition and forgiveness.  Written with clarity and grace, the essay is both objective and personal.  Drawing on his own experience, Thomas Richstatter opens to the reader the full dimension of forgiveness.  A very commendable job. "

108. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. Teaching segment and theological consultant for "The Liturgical Year and Sunday," Catholic Update Video, St. Anthony Messenger Press, October 2003. V2061

109. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Sacrament of Anointing: The Church’s Prayer for the Sick," (18 minute video program) Catholic Update Video, St. Anthony Messenger Press, October 2003. V2093

110. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. “Caring With Faith: Training Ministers to the Sick,” Catholic Update Video, St. Anthony Messenger Press, October 2003. V2071

111. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. Teaching segment and theological consultant for  "The Church celebrates Lent and Easter,” Catholic Update Video, St. Anthony Messenger Press, January 2004. January 2004. V2062

112.  Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Just Why Am I a Catholic?"  Every Day Catholic, St. Anthony Messenger Press, January 2004. G0104

113. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. “Jesus: Our Starting Point,” Every Day Catholic, St. Anthony Messenger Press, February 2004. G0204

114. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. “Ours Is a ‘We’ Religion,” Every Day Catholic, St. Anthony Messenger Press, March 2004. G0304

115.  Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. “God's Seven Works of Art,” Every Day Catholic, St. Anthony Messenger Press, April 2004.  G0404

116.  Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M.  “The Mass Our Greatest and Best Prayer,” Vatican II Today, St. Anthony Messenger Press, April, 2004. Q0404  [This article is republished as Chapter Two of the book Vatican II Today: Calling Catholics to Holiness and Service. Edited by Judy Ball and Joan McKamey, St. Anthony Messenger Press, 2005. ISBN 0-86716-670-3.]

This article won Second Place in the "Best essay, General Interest Newsletter" category of the 2005 Catholic Press Awards.

117.  Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. “Thank You, God!,” Every Day Catholic, St. Anthony Messenger Press, May 2004. G0504

118.  Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M.  “Seven Sacraments, One Mystery,” Vatican II Today, St. Anthony Messenger Press, May, 2004. Q0504  [This article is republished as Chapter Three of the book Vatican II Today: Calling Catholics to Holiness and Service. Edited by Judy Ball and Joan McKamey, St. Anthony Messenger Press, 2005. ISBN 0-86716-670-3.]

119.  Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "The Ministry of Hospitality," America, 190:15 (May 3, 2004) pp12-14.

120.  Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. “Our God Speaks to Us,” Every Day Catholic, St. Anthony Messenger Press, June 2004. G0604

121. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. “Celebrating Our Big Church,” Every Day Catholic, St. Anthony Messenger Press, July 2004. G0704

122. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Loving Our Human Church," Every Day Catholic, St. Anthony Messenger Press, August 2004. G0804

123. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Called to be Missionaries," Every Day Catholic, St. Anthony Messenger Press, September 2004. G0904

124. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. “Living the Liturgical Year,” Every Day Catholic, St. Anthony Messenger Press, October 2004. G1004

125. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. “Love:  Our Truest Vocation,” Every Day Catholic, St. Anthony Messenger Press, November 2004. G1104

126. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. “Toward the Mystery,” Eucharist: Jesus With Us, St. Anthony Messenger Press, March 2005. Q0305.  I have placed a draft of this article on my website.  (At the Catholic Media Convocation May 24-26, 2006, the Catholic Press Association gave the third place award for "General Excellence, General Interest Newsletter" to this series of articles.)

127. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. “The First and Greatest Sacrament,” Eucharist: Jesus With Us, St. Anthony Messenger Press, April 2005. Q0405 – Reprinted as “Eucharist: The First and Greatest Sacrament” Saint Anthony Messenger, May 2005 (112:12), pp 18-21. I have placed a draft of this article on my website

128. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. “The Community Gathers” Eucharist: Jesus With Us, St. Anthony Messenger Press, May 2005. Q0505.  I have placed a draft of this article on my website

129.  Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. “The Eucharist and Icebergs” St. Augustine Catholic, May/June 2005 (Volume XIV Issue 6), pp. 14-15.

130. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. “Do This in Memory of Me” Eucharist: Jesus With Us, St. Anthony Messenger Press, June 2005. Q0605.  I have placed a draft of this article on my website

131 (35 revised). Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. “A Walk Through the Mass: Catholic Update, Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, July 2005 Revised Edition. CU 0889. Available on the internet at http://www.americancatholic.org/Newsletters/CU/ac0889.asp

132. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. “The Lord’s Supper” Eucharist: Jesus With Us, St. Anthony Messenger Press, July 2005. Q0705.  I have placed a draft of this article on my website

133. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. “Our Greatest and Best Prayer,” Eucharist: Jesus With Us, St. Anthony Messenger Press, August 2005. Q0805.  I have placed a draft of this article on my website

134. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. “Communion With the Lord and the Church,” Eucharist: Jesus With Us, St. Anthony Messenger Press, September 2005. Q0905.  I have placed a draft of this article on my website

135. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. “Source and Summary of Catholic Life,” Eucharist: Jesus With Us, St. Anthony Messenger Press, October 2005. Q1005.  I have placed a draft of this article on my website

136. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. “The Sacrifice of Good Friday,” Eucharist: Jesus With Us, St. Anthony Messenger Press, November 2005. Q1105.  I have placed a draft of this article on my website

137. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. “Presence of the Risen Lord,” Eucharist: Jesus With Us, St. Anthony Messenger Press, December 2005. Q1205.  I have placed a draft of this article on my website

138. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. “A Walk Through the Mass: Step - By - Step Explanation"   Catholic Update, Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, December, 2005. CU 0889. Revision of Publication number 35

139. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. “Eucharist:  A Short History,” Eucharist: Jesus With Us, St. Anthony Messenger Press, January 2006. Q0106 I have placed a draft of this article on my website

140. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. “Beyond the Mass,” Eucharist: Jesus With Us, St. Anthony Messenger Press, February 2006. Q0206 I have placed a draft of this article on my website

141. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. “Our Holiest Week: A Practical Guide for the Holy Week Liturgies,” Catholic Update, Cincinnati: St. Anthony Messenger Press, January, 2006 C0492. Revision of publication number 45.

142. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "How Many Sacraments of Confirmation??" Parish Life, May 2, 2006. www.celebrationEseries.org

143. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "How to Pray the Eucharistic Prayer: Tips for Catechists" Sadlier, "We Believe" website for Catechists, January2006. On the web at www.webelieveweb.com/catechist_development.cfm?cd_view=115

144. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Life’s Three Great Questions" Sadlier, "We Believe" website for Catechists, March 2006. On the web at www.webelieveweb.com/catechist_development.cfm?cd_view=115

145. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "Don’t Stop Half Way" Sadlier, "We Believe" website for Catechists, April 2006. On the web at www.webelieveweb.com/catechist_development.cfm?cd_view=115

146. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M. "What’s Your Plan for Faith Formation?" Today’s Parish Minister, January 2008, pp 10-11.

147.  Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M.  The Sacraments.  12 talks (25 minutes each) on 4 audio CD's  available from www.NowYouKnowMedia.com  

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© Copyright: Tom Richstatter, Franciscan Province of St. John the Baptist, Cincinnati Ohio, Order of Friars Minor. All Rights Reserved.  This page was created by Fr. Thomas Richstatter, O.F.M.  Every effort has been, and is being made, to acknowledge sources when the ideas are not my own.  Any failure to comply with the United States Copyright Act (Title 17, United States Code) will be corrected immediately should I become aware of it.  This site was updated on 05/04/08 .  Your comments on this site are welcome at webmaster2@tomrichstatter.org.