With hearts full of joy and gratitude, Mary, Mother of the Church Area Catholic Community (Mary’s ACC) warmly welcomes Rev. JC Duncan as its new pastor. Beginning his ministry on April 1, 2025, Fr. JC immediately stepped into his role, celebrating Mass across the ACC and embracing his calling to serve with compassion, humility, and a deep love for God’s people.

Fr. JC joins the community as a spiritual shepherd, called to guide eight parishes and Sacred Heart Area School in Staples, Minn. United in mission and faith, Mary’s ACC spans a diverse and grace-filled Catholic family across the following parishes:

• St. Joseph Church – Bertha

• St. Hubert Church – Bluegrass/Sebeka

• St. John the Baptist Church – Bluffton

• Assumption of Our Lady Church – Menahga

• St. Michael Church – Motley, Minn.

• Sacred Heart Church – Staples, Minn.

• St. Ann Church – Wadena

• St. Frederick Church – Verndale

In addition to his pastoral responsibilities within these parishes, Fr. JC will serve as a spiritual leader and presence at Sacred Heart Area School, where the mission of Catholic education and formation remains central to the life of the ACC. He looks forward to working closely with students, teachers, staff, and families to nurture a strong foundation of faith and love.

“With deep joy, I begin this journey alongside such a welcoming and faithful community,” said Fr. JC Duncan. “It is my privilege to walk with you in faith, to listen, to serve, and to grow together as one Body in Christ—both in our parishes and through the mission of Sacred Heart School.”

Fr. Duncan brings with him a heart for ministry and a commitment to building strong parish and school connections. Under his guidance, the community looks forward to continued spiritual renewal, vibrant liturgies, and a deepened sense of unity rooted in Christ.

An official installation Mass will be scheduled in the coming weeks to formally celebrate Fr. Duncan’s appointment as pastor. Details will be shared as they are finalized and posted on Mary’s ACC website, Facebook page, and in the weekly bulletin.

All parishioners, school families, and community members are invited to attend upcoming Masses and introduce themselves to Fr. Duncan as he continues visiting and serving each parish. His presence is already a blessing, and his leadership promises to strengthen the spiritual bonds that unite the ACC.

For Mass schedules, parish news, or more information about Sacred Heart Area School, please visit www.marysacc.org or contact the parish office at (218) 631-1593.