Brown County Sacred Heart Family of Parishes

As part of our archdiocese Beacon of Lights pastoral planning process, all the churches of Brown county will be recognized under one canonical parish called the Sacred Heart family of parishes. This will enable us to form a stronger parish centered on the Eucharist, that radiates the love of Christ and joy of the Gospel.

St. George Parish, Georgetown

St. Mary Parish, Arnheim

St. Michael Parish, Ripley

St. Michael, Mt Orab

St. Patrick, Fayetteville

Brown County Priests

At the heart of Brown County Catholics, Fr. Amberger and Fr. Cordonnier play pivotal roles in nurturing our faith and fostering a strong community bond. Their dedication and service inspire us all.

Fr. Amberger
Fr. Amberger

Pastor

Learn More about Fr. Amberger

Fr. Frank Amberger is excited to be a pastor in southern Brown County, embracing the rural setting of the Archdiocese. In sharing his vocation story, he recalls his childhood dream of becoming a garbage man, later aspiring to be a veterinarian due to his love for animals.

While pursuing a degree in biology at St. Louis University, with plans to specialize in wildlife biology, he experienced a profound spiritual conversion. Despite initial resistance to the idea of priesthood, a transformative moment during his graduate studies at the University of Montana illuminated God’s plan for him.

After completing his year of graduate school, he entered seminary and was ordained in 1996. Fr. Amberger humorously reflects on how God brought his journey full circle—calling him from a childhood dream of being a “physical garbage man” to a “spiritual garbage man,” removing sin through the Sacrament of Penance.

“God has a perfect sense of humor!”

Fr. Cordonnier
Fr. Cordonnier

Parochial Vicar

Learn More about Fr. Cordonnier

Bio coming soon!

Fr. Dohrman Byers
Fr. Dohrman Byers

Retired Priest

Deacon Ronald Dvoracek
Deacon Ronald Dvoracek

Deacon

Reach Out for Guidance

We invite you to connect with Fr. Amberger and Fr. Cordonnier for spiritual guidance, support, or any questions you may have. Your journey is important to us.

St. Michael's School

A Family-Oriented School and Faith Community

St. Michael School is more than just an educational institution; it’s a family. Rooted in the teachings of Christ, we foster a nurturing environment where students and their families feel a deep sense of belonging. Our commitment to Catholic Social Teaching and rural values creates a unique community where faith and education thrive together.