Bishop Raymond A. Lucker was known especially for his dedication to catechesis, justice, and the dignity of every person. His ministry in catechesis began immediately after his ordination in 1952, when he was assigned as assistant director of the Confraternity of Christian Doctrine for the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis. He later became director of that office and also served as a professor of catechetics at St. Paul Seminary.

As bishop of New Ulm, Minnesota (1976–2000), he brought to his ministry a strong conviction that faith must be both taught and lived - rooted in Scripture and Tradition, yet responsive to the real questions and struggles of contemporary life.

In 1968, he was appointed director of the Office of Education of the United States Catholic Conference, where he organized a two-year consultation that produced the US Bishops' 1972 "Pastoral Message on Catholic Education."  This consultative process shaped how American bishops approached education for years afterward.

Bishop Lucker believed catechists were not simply transmitters of information, but ministers called to form disciples. He believed and lived that faith formation could never be separated from the Gospel’s call to love the poor, welcome the marginalized, and work for a more just world. He encouraged catechists to help learners see the connection between belief and action, prayer and service, doctrine and discipleship.

Reflections to Hold, Pray, and Live

• Bishop Lucker emphasized listening - to God’s Word, to the Church, and to the lived experience of people. Where do I practice attentive listening in my ministry? Where might I need to listen more deeply?
• Bishop Lucker’s commitment to justice and human dignity was central to his understanding of the Gospel. How do I help learners connect Church teaching with concern for the poor, marginalized, and vulnerable?

Author:

Sister Janet Schaeffler, OP
Member, NCCL Board of Directors

Her book, SAINTS & MENTORS for Catechists: 41 Models of Faith to Support and Guide You, can be purchased from Twenty-Third Publications
[GET YOUR COPY HERE]

Learn more about Janet and her publications at https://www.janetschaeffler.com/