For years, in the quiet rhythms of family life, parish service and prayer, Neil Witkowski learned to listen to the gentle voice of God inviting him to a deeper “yes.”
On April 18, that hidden work of grace came into full view at St. Mary Cathedral in Gaylord, where the faithful gathered in prayerful anticipation as Bishop Jeffrey Walsh laid hands upon him in the ancient Rite of Ordination, sealing his call to the sacred order of the diaconate.
“I didn’t have a deep burning desire or a neon sign,” Neil reflects. “A lot of men think that is how God works. But usually, he speaks more quietly. The call can come from inside you or from outside through other people. You just have to be open.”
A Foundation in Marriage and Family
For 23 years, Neil has cherished his marriage to Julie Witkowski as the sacred foundation of his life.
“Our faith was simply how we lived,” he explains. “Daily Mass, family rosary and catechesis were part of normal life. It was the primary focus of our home.”
In this rhythm of prayer and love, the seeds of discernment took root. Through persistent prayer, heartfelt conversation and surrender to God’s will, Neil arrived at a serene certainty.
“I realized this is what God wants of me. It was about trusting him.”
His years of formation included spiritual direction and virtual studies through the University of Dayton, the University of Notre Dame and the seminary program at the University of Saint Mary of the Lake. This preparation reflects a living Gospel: grace entrusted, received and shared in daily acts of love.
Formed in a Parish Family
That profound trust owes much to the steady pastoral heart of Father Donald Libby, who shepherded Holy Rosary Parish for nearly 20 years.
“Father Libby had a profound impact on my family,” Neil says. “He formed us as Catholics. My kids served at the altar and found encouragement there. He encouraged me too.”
Under Father Libby’s guidance, the parish became a sanctuary where God remained at the center.
Neil’s son, David Witkowski, is completing minor seminary studies in St. Paul, Minnesota, this spring and will continue his priestly formation at the Angelicum and North American College in Rome in the fall of 2026.
Another son, Christopher Witkowski, entered the Canons Regular of the Holy Cross in Ohio in September 2024 and will continue priestly formation in Brazil.
“Supporting our sons in their vocations is a gift,” Neil shares.
A Servant’s Joy
Serving at Holy Rosary in Cedar, Neil embraces his diaconal ministry with gratitude and joy.
“I love catechesis and walking with those in OCIA,” he says. “Seeing someone discover the faith is incredible.”
He looks forward to bringing the Eucharist to the homebound and serving at the altar. In his faithful “yes,” the beauty of stewardship shines forth, a quiet surrender through which grace flourishes.
