Thirty one years ago, as then-Fr. Richard J. Sklba prepared for ordination as auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of Milwaukee, people interviewed by the Catholic Herald Citizen, newspaper of the Archdiocese of Milwaukee, described him as a “gentleman and a scholar,” personable with a sense of humor.
After more than three decades of service in the archdiocese, priests, ministers and laity alike, interviewed by your Catholic Herald, described the retiring bishop in much the same way.
In spite of the challenges of the leadership position, no doubt magnified by the abuse crisis which affected the church during this time, Bishop Sklba continues to be a caring, concerned, gentle shepherd, according to those who have been touched by his ministry.
The oldest of Ann and Stephen Sklba’s four children, Richard, born Sept. 11, 1935, attended Hansche Elemetary School in Mount Pleasent and St. Catherine High School, in Racine. In a Nov. 10, 1979, Catholic Herald Citizen article, his parents recalled a little boy playing priest, pretending to say Mass at a homemade altar, a young boy always reading, always studying. …
To continue reading this article and more about the life and experiences of Bishop Richard J. Sklba, call (414) 769-3500 to request a $5 copy, or request your copy by completing the online form.
