Every summer, the Diocese of Madison recruits and sends out missionaries whose sole purpose is to share the Catholic Faith with young people in our diocese.

Totus Tuus is a summer Catholic youth program dedicated to sharing the Gospel and promoting the Faith through evangelization, catechesis, Christian witness, and Eucharistic worship.

Totus Tuus, a Latin phrase meaning “totally yours,” is the motto of St. John Paul II, reflecting his devotion and consecration to the Blessed Mother.

These week-long parish summer catechetical programs and summer camps assist parents and parishes in the evangelizing and catechizing of their youth by supplementing the work they are already doing.

The methodology, structure, content, and enthusiasm of Totus Tuus are concerned not only with teaching the Faith but also with igniting the hearts of the team members and young people.

For more than 10 years in the Diocese of Madison, we have seen much fruit in both our youth in parishes and the ongoing formation of young adults who continue to dedicate themselves to the Church’s mission of evangelization.

This year in the Diocese of Madison, we have seven missionaries divided into two teams who are being sent forth to 12 parishes in southern Wisconsin to evangelize more than 800 young people in June and July.

This year’s teams will share how to pray the Joyful Mysteries of the Rosary and the second pillar of the Catechism of the Catholic Church: The Seven Sacraments.

The missionaries for this year are:

Cade Sullivan — “Hello! My name is Cade Sullivan, I’m 22 years old and I just completed my second year of college seminary. I grew up in Oregon, Wis., and have spent my last four summers doing youth ministry for the diocese, including Camp Gray and Love Begins Here. I’m looking forward to serving in your pastorate and teaching your youth about the Lord!”

Laura Johnson — “My name is Laura Johnson. I grew up in Stoughton attending St. Ann Church and am currently studying communications and Spanish at UW-Eau Claire. I am the third of four kids. I was active in youth ministry in high school and have been active in campus ministry. I enjoy hiking, camping, and being outdoors. I play the violin and Hardigner (Norwegian) fiddle.”

Thomas Hunstiger — “Hey everyone! My name is Thomas; I’m from Holy Cross Parish in the Middleton-Cross Plains area. I am the oldest of five and I enjoy spending quality time with my friends and family, especially going on hikes, camping, or having a backyard barbecue. I look forward to sharing my Catholic Faith and my love of Jesus Christ with your youth, as well as having tons of fun and games along the way!”

Michael Milbrath — “My name is Michael Milbrath! I’m from Ixonia, Wis., but I am currently attending the University of Dallas in Texas. I am the third of four children, and I am currently planning to study math and theology. I enjoy listening to music and reading, and I have also started learning to draw, paint, and play drums. The saints, praying the Rosary, and the sacraments have been important aspects of my Faith life. My favorite saint is St. Maria Goretti, and my Confirmation saint is Blessed Carlo Acutis.”

Chloe Timm — “Hello! My name is Chloe Timm, and I’m thrilled to be serving on Totus Tuus this summer! I am from the St. John Paul II Pastorate in the Wisconsin Dells area, and I’m currently pursuing a degree in English and theology. I love to spend my time reading, singing, and serving the Church, especially teaching young people about the love of Christ. I’m so excited to explore the Diocese of Madison and get to know you and your families!”

Clara Weiss — “Hi! My name is Clara Weiss; I’m from Mary, Mother of Mercy Pastorate in the Sauk City area. I am extremely excited to share my love for the Catholic Faith with your young people. I am the oldest of four, giving me experience with younger children and teens. Some hobbies I enjoy are reading and having a good time with friends. I can’t wait to meet your students!”

Ellie Riddle — “Hi, my name is Ellie; I just finished my first year of college as a theology and psychology major. I’m from Southern Indiana and I go to school in Louisville, Ky. I love all things crafty and artsy — I recently started learning to sew my own dresses! I found my deep love for the Lord a few years ago. Serving as a Totus Tuus missionary is my first big step into the mission world. I am so ready to see what the Lord has to bring me!”

The summer has only just begun and Totus Tuus is coming to a parish near you.