Unum Est Necessarium

Frederic Baraga was consecrated the first Bishop of the diocese of Sault Ste. Marie, later moved and renamed in 1866 as the diocese of Marquette, on November 1, 1853. In his first pastoral letter, written in both English and Ojibway, he stressed the principal and sacred duties to be observed in the worship of God: Faith, Adoration, Respect, Obedience, and Love. He explained each in patient detail so that none would misunderstand his duties in serving the Lord and could draw closer to the Lord through daily observance of them. Baraga especially stressed the importance of total love of God, and his motto, “Unum Est Necessarium,” meaning “One Thing is Necessary,” expressed the belief that people should love and serve God well and so make happy their souls. This was Baraga’s way of life.

Michigan · United States