Father Mike: A New Chapter of Ministry

Jan 15

Father Mike Tess to Serve as Priest-in-Charge at Good Shepherd/El Buen Pastor in Sun Prairie

The Diocese of Wisconsin is pleased to share that Father Mike Tess has accepted a call to serve as Priest-in-Charge at Good Shepherd/El Buen Pastor Episcopal Church in Sun Prairie, beginning February 1, 2025.

Currently serving as the half-time priest at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Beaver Dam, Fr. Mike will bring his heart for parish ministry, pastoral care, and Latino ministry to his new role while continuing his service at St. Mark’s.

The Vestry of Good Shepherd/El Buen Pastor spent time reflecting, praying, and discussing the parish’s mission and its service to the Sun Prairie community with Fr. Mike. They are thrilled to welcome him into their parish family. Fr. Mike shared this introduction:

“Hello, my name is Father Mike Tess. Some of you know me, and I look forward to meeting those of you who don’t. I live in Sun Prairie with my wife and have four children—two sons and two daughters, who are seniors in college. I am excited to be with you and look forward to meeting you soon. God bless.”

You can also check out some of his recent posts on St. Mark’s Beaver Dam Instagram and his direct voice here. We recommend his message of peace in Christmas time! You can also follow along with his journey at Good Shepherd on their Facebook and Instagram.

While we celebrate this new chapter for Fr. Mike and Good Shepherd/El Buen Pastor, we also hold the people of St. Mark’s, Beaver Dam, in our prayers as they begin discerning what God has in store for their community in this time of transition. May they feel the Holy Spirit’s guidance and the love and support of the wider Diocese as they step into this new season of ministry.

Please join us in prayer and gratitude for this new chapter of ministry for Fr. Mike and Good Shepherd and for St. Mark’s in Beaver Dam. May this shared ministry bear fruit and blessings for all involved!

You can read Sun Prarie’s announcement below in full.