ST. CLOUD, Minn.—Clergy in the St. Cloud area are asking coaches and school activity directors to maintain the longtime tradition of keeping Wednesday nights free for church.

That’s the night traditionally reserved for confirmation, youth group and other religious programs. But some clergy say sports and other activities have recently been causing a conflict.

Nearly 50 religious leaders, including St. Cloud Roman Catholic Bishop John Kinney of the Diocese of St. Cloud, signed a letter reminding schools of church events on Wednesday nights.

“It puts our children in a bad spot,” said Ginny Duschner, faith formation director at the Roman Catholic Church of the Holy Spirit in St. Cloud.

Duschner said many church leaders are running into more competition for Wednesday programs, which she said have “always been a high priority around here.”

Andrea Swanberg, activities director at Technical High School, said that last spring bad weather that postponed games led to more Wednesday scheduling. Playoffs have also been scheduled on Wednesdays, she said.