Catholic Diocese of Fairbanks Overview
The Catholic Diocese of Fairbanks is the largest in the country in geographical terms. It stretches from Tok, near the Canadian border, all the way across the state to Little Diomede near the border with Russia; from Barrow on the coast of the Arctic Ocean to Chefornak south of Nelson Island it encompasses almost 410, 000 square miles. Within its boundaries the diocese is home to 14, 500 Catholics, out of a general population of 161, 000.Fairbanks is also the country's only fully missionary Catholic diocese, falling under the "Congregation of the Evangelization of Peoples" the Church's international missionary wing. The diocese is among the poorest in the nation. Only eight of its 46 parishes and missions are self-supporting. The viability of these parishes depends in large measure on donors from across the country and around the world. The diocese spreads the word of its needs through its newsletter, "The Alaskan Shepherd."
There are 20 active priests working in the diocese, roughly one priest for every 20,000 square miles. Many of our parishes and missions are lucky to see a priest every other month. 26 permanent deacons also serve the diocese along with two Franciscan brothers and 15 nuns from various orders. The diocese and its missions, schools and ministries employ 275 people, and it is estimated about 1,000 people offer their services as volunteers.
The diocese has two Catholic schools; Immaculate Conception Elementary and Monroe Junior/Senior High. Both are located in Fairbanks and fall under the canonical guidance of the bishop; however the majority of funding comes from tuition and fundraising efforts of the Monroe Foundation, a separate non-profit corporation.
The diocese is also home to the oldest Catholic radio station in the country. KNOM went on the air in July 1971, after years of planning, fund-raising and work. The educationally oriented, public-service station has garnered dozens of awards for its news and programming. It is wholly financed through listener and donor support and staffed with full-time volunteers.
The needs of families are met in Fairbanks through Fairbanks Counseling and Adoption, the diocese's social service agency. It serves some 2,000 residents each year, arranging adoptions, helping street kids find shelter and meals, and especially counseling families to be healthier and better adjusted. It is funded through grants and donations and support from the Catholic Diocese of Fairbanks.