Photos courtesy of Bandi Szakony for God Squad Canada 

“St. Joseph was chosen by God to be the guardian of the Holy Family. This was no small task.”

With these words, Archbishop Ivan Jurkovič, Papal Nuncio to Canada, opened his homily at St. Mary’s Cathedral, where close to 1,200 faithful gathered to celebrate the Solemnity of St. Joseph. This jubilee Mass was a profound Solemnity, marked by an Apostolic Blessing with a plenary indulgence, granted in the name of Pope Francis and imparted by Bishop McGrattan. The plenary indulgence, available to the faithful under the usual conditions—sacramental confession, Eucharistic communion, and prayer for the intentions of the Holy Father—reminds us of God’s abundant mercy and the call to ongoing conversion.

St. Joseph’s role in salvation history is often described in simple terms—he was the foster father of Jesus and the spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary but Archbishop Jurkovič emphasized the depth of his mission. Joseph was entrusted with the care of Jesus and Mary, a responsibility that required immense faith and unwavering trust in God’s plan. His silent strength and steadfastness provided a stable and nurturing environment for Jesus to grow.

“In the home of Nazareth, Jesus would have discerned that Joseph was a man of prayer,” the Archbishop reflected. “Like every Jewish boy, much of the religious heritage of Israel would have been imparted to Jesus in that setting through Joseph’s example.” The lessons of faith that Joseph passed down would later shape Christ’s teachings. “From Joseph, Jesus would have gained knowledge of the skills to be a good carpenter and builder,” he continued. “And this knowledge He used to teach His disciples that the one who listens to the word of God and acts upon it is like the wise man who builds his house on the rock.” 

St. Joseph remains a patron and guide for the Church, for fathers, workers, and all who seek to follow God’s will. “May we learn from St. Joseph how to live lives that are pleasing to the Heavenly Father,” Archbishop Jurkovič urged. His life calls us to be people of faith, courage, and love—to be men and women who, like him, embrace our responsibilities with trust and devotion.

The celebration at St. Mary’s Cathedral concluded with a rare and profound moment—a papal blessing with a plenary indulgence for those present. Bishop McGrattan led the faithful in a moment of repentance, preparing their hearts to receive this special grace. “Pray to God for our Most Holy Father, Pope Francis, our Bishop William, and for Holy Mother Church, and strive, by holiness of life, to walk in full communion with it,” Deacon Peter An announced before the bishop imparted the blessing.

May we turn to St. Joseph in our struggles, in our work, and in our faith, knowing that through his example, we too can walk in trust, courage, and love.

As Canadians prepare for the upcoming campaign, Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB) president Bishop William McGrattan urged Christians to get involved in the electoral process.  

“I think it is important to realize we do have this freedom and also the responsibility to exercise a decision that will support the country in moving forward in a way that respects common values,” said McGrattan, the Bishop of Calgary.
Discourse between relatives, friends, co-workers and fellow churchgoers about the daily news and philosophical debates about the soul of the nation will magnify during the campaign timeframe.

Instead of adopting a combative and intolerant posture during a political discussion with someone expressing clashing viewpoints, McGrattan said we can exchange ideas charitably.

“I think the first step is to make sure that one is educated or aware of the issues so that one can speak with a certain degree of knowledge,” said McGrattan. “And then be open to listening to another person's perspective and question why they might hold that particular perspective on an issue. Maybe then say, ‘from my perspective of my life of faith, I see this in this light.’

“Faith is not a political position, but faith provides values that we need to be reflecting in our discussions and in making decisions regarding the future of a country and a society.”

Catholics, specifically, are encouraged to resist being one- or two-issue voters by meditating upon all seven core principles of Catholic Social Teaching (CST):

• Dignity of the human person from conception to natural death;
• Call to family, community and participation;
• Rights and responsibilities;
• Option for the poor and vulnerable;
• The dignity of work and the rights of workers;
• Solidarity;
• Care for God’s Creation.
  
  

Lay associations, such as the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, the Catholic Women’s League, the Knights of Columbus, Development and Peace-Caritas Canada and pro-life groups that champion these values with their respective missions, have been active in previous election cycles.

McGrattan suggested clergy can meaningfully assist these groups by being aware of the realities of food insecurity, mental illness, euthanasia and health-care barriers in their local context and then “bring those to the attention of our faithful in their discernment and education as the election unfolds.”

A key to discernment, said McGrattan, is to “pray to the Holy Spirit for guidance and wisdom.” He considers prayers to the Holy Spirit “essential at this time as we prepare to go into an election.”

Reciting The Lord’s Prayer, the foundational Christian prayer that Jesus taught to His disciples, is also recommended by McGrattan. This pre-vote spiritual practice strikes a personal chord.

“I remember my father telling me to make sure you pray before you go and vote,” said McGrattan. “He always said he would say the Our Father before placing the ballot in the box. I remember him telling me that as I came of age to vote. He gave me that sage wisdom and prudence.”

The mentality a Catholic brings into the voting booth is also vital. Recognizing that voting is a responsibility, said McGrattan, should ensure that “one doesn’t just see this as a kind of superficial or just a very momentary type of decision.” He added that we should approach a vote believing “this is an act of love and service.”

As for after the vote, McGrattan said we can observe the Ignatian teaching of holy indifference — embracing God’s will and direction by surrendering personal preferences.

“It is about one accepting the outcome and trying to live with that and contribute the best they can,” said McGrattan. “If things don't necessarily align with one's vote, one will try and find ways to continue to advocate for some of the issues they saw as important.”

McGrattan stressed that while “God knows the outcome, and God has in some ways ordained what is to unfold in our life and in the life of a country,” at the same time “He wants us to act freely and responsibly. Voting is part of that human dignity we have given to us by God.”

McGrattan concluded with a call to action for young voters.

“Especially for the young voters, the future is important,” said McGrattan. “They have to give voice to that by being very participatory in terms of elections and making their vote known.”

Written by Quinton Amundson for the Catholic Register. Image source: Canva.

Written by Megan Ritchie, Parish Renewal Leader chair, St. Joseph's Parish in Calgary.

Written by Deacon Daniel Deck, Diocese of Calgary.

On Sunday, March 10, 2025, I had the privilege of being at St. Mary’s Cathedral to witness the Rite of Election.
 
The Rite of Election is a significant moment in the RCIA journey when catechumens preparing to receive the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Eucharist at the Easter vigil come forward and are officially welcomed into the community of believers.
 
These catechumens have been on a long journey, some for many years, as they seek to follow the heavenly calling in their lives. With their sponsors and catechists, they have been preparing and discerning God’s invitation to be faithful.

I have been involved with the Rite of Election for many years here in Calgary and have seen impressive numbers of people coming forward, responding to the heavenly calling, but this past Sunday, the walls of the cathedral almost split wide open.
 
The participants began gathering at the Cathedral just after 2 pm, making their way into the church and looking for their places. Each year, parishes submit the number of people they will be bringing so that pews can be reserved for the catechumens. This year, every pew in the Cathedral was filled to capacity, and the space behind the altar was filled with chairs to allow for even more attendees.
 
There were members from 35 parishes, as well as members of the St. Francis Xavier Chaplaincy, in attendance to support the 371 elect - a record number - at this major moment in their journeys to full admission. It was “deeply moving, I was fighting back tears much of the time,” as one member of the congregation observed. 

During his homily to welcome the elect, Bishop William T. McGrattan referred to the Letter to the Romans, where we are reminded “that when we confess on our lips that Jesus is born and believe in our hearts that God raised him from the dead,” we are witnesses to the great gift of faith given to us through grace.

We were reminded that our Diocese has embarked on a journey of renewal to touch the hearts of all the faithful in the. It is a journey to help us all respond to the Renewal call to be “missionary disciples in Christ, to become more of a church of encounter and witness, and to strengthen the family by strengthening the family, and strengthening the parish community.”
 
Bishop McGrattan observed, “This great number of people who are coming into the Church as catecumens and the elect throughout this diocese.. I believe that it is truly a sign of God's providence, God's hope that he continues to instill in us.”
 
We all should look to these elects and be inspired in our faith journey, embracing with the same courage that they have shown to live in a time, in a world in which sometimes this faith, this act of belief is not necessarily respected, nor is it understood, but is so important to bring hope to our world.  One of the priests in attendance offered this prayer for us all: “May the Holy Spirit lead all the elect to find the beauty of the Truth, that is Christ Jesus!”
 
The Rite of Election always falls on the First Sunday of Lent, when we are reminded of Jesus' forty days in the desert at the start of His sacred ministry. The forty days of Lent call us to reflect on our own lives and, through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, open our hearts to prepare for the gift of salvation we celebrate at Easter.
 
I can only echo the beautiful words shared by one of the new elect: “It was emotional moment, bro, and glad I got to be part of it and be blessed by God’s calling!”

I joined the Capacity Building Committee and had the great fortune of having Michelle Haywood give me a tour of the House and teach me more about the services they offer. She was the one who made the connection for me between Mother Mary and the House. As it says in Luke 1:39-40, immediately after Mary is visited by the Angel Gabriel who tells her she will bear God’s son, she travels to her cousin Elizabeth to find comfort and support. That is what Elizabeth House is all about.

I love their motto: “Changing Lives, Two Generations at Time!” Founded in 2006 by the Sisters of Charity of St. Louis, Elizabeth House has welcomed over 600 women and children of all ages, backgrounds, religious affiliations, and ethnicities. All are welcome to share in the safety and support of the staff and caseworkers. Elizabeth House is a transitional home that serves as a sanctuary and community for pregnant women and mothers experiencing housing instability. Families can stay until the children reach two years of age, making this House distinct from other places of refuge. In addition to food and shelter, Elizabeth House provides residents with supports to create lifelong resilience and achieve their goals of self-sufficiency.
​
I am very excited about the future for Elizabeth House. In the short term, I am hoping to raise the profile of the Elizabeth House both in the Diocese and Calgary Catholic School District. In the long term, I would like to see the creation of a new purpose-built house where the work of supporting women and children can expand and more lives can be changed!

Written by Cathy Sandau, Elizabeth House Volunteer, Capacity Building Committee.

Imagine your first memories of the Last Supper coming from watching the scene unfold before you as the Catechist reads aloud from the Gospel of St. Mark. You watch intently as the table is set, and Jesus takes His place among the apostles in the Upper Room. He blesses the bread and wine, offering them as His Body and Blood. The table in the Upper Room now transforms into the sacred Eucharistic altar.

This powerful presentation is one of many ways the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd—through its carefully crafted methodology—invites the observant child into the Mystery of God.
​
The materials and presentations of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd were developed by Sofia Cavalletti and Gianna Gobbi over fifty years, applying Maria Montessori’s principles to the catechesis of children. Their meticulous observation and deep vocation shed new light on the spiritual life of the child. Every young child has an innate desire to know God, and the Montessori approach recognizes this need by setting aside space and time for children’s religious formation.

Life in the Atrium​

This holy work unfolds in a space called the Atrium—a name fitting its purpose. An Atrium in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is a prepared environment where the child undergoes formation to join the community of the Church. This space is equipped with intentional material that helps young children engage in their faith. The child learns by interacting with the beautiful material, while the role of the adult is to prepare and maintain the environment, introduce the material, and then hold back, allowing the Holy Spirit to work in the child. Catechists introduce children to Scripture and the Eucharist in age-appropriate ways, fostering wonder at God’s goodness.

Life in the Atrium follows the Liturgical calendar and includes celebrations (Easter, Christmas, Pentecost) and preparation (Advent and Lent). Children learn about Scripture and Liturgy through presentations and works, including Jesus’ infancy narratives, geography of the Holy Land, Kingdom of God parables, Baptism, and practical life skills. Catechists draw attention to the wonders of our faith, asking questions that spark curiosity and deepen understanding. This formation is not just a method of religious education but a way to nurture the spiritual lives of our youngest faithful, allowing them to develop a deep, personal relationship with the Good Shepherd.

Behind the Doors of Catechist Formation

Twenty-two Catechists-in-training, three formators, and two babies spent the severe cold spell in February in the basement of Ascension Catholic Parish in Calgary, praying, studying pedagogy, theology, and sacred Scripture. For six days, we studied the Montessori Atrium, focusing on three- to six-year-olds. As volunteer Catechists from all around the city supported the new team in formation, the Holy Spirit was at work bringing about renewal and transformation.
​
Each day began with lighting a candle and proclaiming Jesus as the light of the world. This was followed by a solemn reading of Scripture and Lectio Divina, allowing God’s word to permeate our hearts and prepare us for the day’s activities. These moments of reflection became the heartbeat of our days, infusing the rest of our learning with meaning and grace.

Discovering the Child’s Spiritual Life

I learned that three- to six-year-olds, or “first-plane children” in Montessori terms, are in the sensitive period for wonder. They are drawn to beauty. They seek protective love. Above all, the image of the Good Shepherd resonates with them the most.

The imagery of the Good Shepherd transcends Level I formation, from infancy narratives to the Paschal lamb and the Liturgy. For six days, we prayed, studied, discussed faith, and experienced the Atrium as children do. In the Atrium, we lived a Catholic encounter, realizing we are not teachers but witnesses to God’s work.

A Personal Call

I am deeply grateful to my formators—Lynda Catalano, Anna Boyagod, and Paula Sabatini; to Ascension Parish’s resident Catechist, Katy Morisson, and her amazing team; and to my fellow catechists-in-training. Throughout the course, I felt the Holy Spirit transform my heart. Scripture spoke directly to my soul, and I had the opportunity to practice intentionality and restraint. The entire course felt like a retreat, a time of self-construction and growth.

As a new mother, I sought ways to nurture my child’s faith, turning to Montessori principles. Additionally, I felt called to read the Gospel of John aloud during my pregnancy. Going through the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd formation was the culmination of both these journeys—a calling that began nearly four years ago.

If you are curious about this approach, seek out an Atrium. Enroll your children, tell your friends, or volunteer—you may find yourself transformed.

I hope Atriums in Calgary will form a strong Church, strengthen families, and build missionary disciples of Christ.

The Diocese of Calgary is moving forward with preparations for a Sacred Grace: Church Wedding for Civilly Married Couples - to be celebrated at St. Mary’s Cathedral on Sep 13, 2025 with Bishop William T. McGrattan.

This initiative, led by the Diocesan Renewal Team and the Permanent Diaconate community, aims to strengthen family life and welcome Catholic couples into the full sacramental life of the Church. Central to the Renewal mission is the dedicated involvement of the Diocese's Permanent Deacons, who are playing an important role in every step of the process. 
​
This event addresses the needs of Catholic couples whose civil marriages have not yet been recognized as sacramental unions. It offers a compassionate response to families seeking to fully participate in the Church's sacramental life, including those who desire to have their children receive the sacraments.

The Deacons are taking on a wide range of responsibilities to ensure the success of this initiative. Their contributions extend from administrative tasks to pastoral roles: 

• Advisory and documentation assistance
• Conducting interviews and mentoring during Information or processing sessions
• Facilitating marriage integration courses
• Serving as wedding officiants for groups of couples

Your marriage is a Gift - Make it a Sacrament. ​

Join the last two info sessions of Sacred Grace

• Sunday, March 23 at noon, St. Martha Parish (​355 Columbia Blvd W, Lethbridge)
• Saturday, March 29 at 6 pm, Holy Family Parish (1451 Strachan Road SE, Medicine Hat)

​For more information, visit the Sacred Grace page.

Bishop Robert Barron created Word on Fire’s Pivotal Players film series to highlight men and women who have had a profound impact on the culture and the faith. Amongst doctors of the Church like St. Augustine and St. Catherine of Sienna, Bishop Barron included the 20th century American writer Flannery O’Connor. 

O’Connor’s 100th birthday will be celebrated this year on the Feast of the Annunciation, March 25. My family and I made a pilgrimage of sorts in February to her farm, Andalusia, in Milledgeville, Georgia, listening to her stories of grotesque characters and violent grace on the 3-hour drive from Atlanta. I am not qualified to analyze her tales or assess her complicated legacy. Instead, I tried to get close to this enigmatic figure by reading her prayer journal while rocking in a white wicker chair on the front porch of the main house where Flannery spent most of her life. Not far from where I sat were two peacocks who still reside there. O’Connor loved birds. She taught a chicken to walk backwards as a child, and she made Andalusia a home for 40 peacocks at one point.

For O’Connor, sin is an enemy that can be conquered but never vanquished; fought and maimed but never killed. She admits that “thoughts awful in their pettiness and selfishness come into my mind even with the Host on my tongue.” Admitting sinful thoughts when receiving Jesus in Communion illuminates her metaphor that “sin is large and stale. You can never finish eating it nor ever digest it.” Sin never satisfies our appetite, and it does not nourish us unless we fast from it. Sin “leads a good many people to God who wouldn’t get there otherwise,” as long as it’s acknowledged. My sins can get me closer to God only when I see and confess them, hence the need to go to Reconciliation frequently.
 
O’Connor prayed for the grace to adore God “with the excitement of the old priests when they sacrificed a lamb to You.” In domesticating Jesus and making him a caricature, we now revere a bloodless crucifixion. Our hygienic and sanitized worship has severed the connection with the life-and-death nature of prayer. When praying, I need to get blood on my hands. I am not advocating a return to hairshirts and self-flagellation, but prayer should not always be a calm and genteel activity for the culturally refined. I’ve got to be deadly serious about prayer. I must stare at the crucifixion long enough to hear Jesus gasping for his last breath.
 
Even though prayer is deadly serious, we must not be afraid to approach God with a sense of humour. ”When I think of all I have to be thankful for I wonder that You don’t just kill me now because You’ve done so much for me already and I haven’t been particularly grateful.” O’Connor’s salty gratitude comes from someone who lost her father to lupus when he was 45, the same painful autoimmune disease that would end her life at the age of 39. Despite these sufferings, O’Connor kept her playful, gallows-like humour, exemplified in her observation that “If we could accurately map heaven, some of our up and coming scientists would begin drawing blueprints for its improvement.” For God’s sake (and my own), I need to lighten up a little.
 
Perhaps the greatest inspiration I take away from Flannery O’Connor in this season of Renewal is committing to a prayer journal for a year where I pour my heart out to God with the same kind of honesty she demonstrated. My new prayer journal begins with her words: ”Help me get down under things and find where You are.” 

To learn more about Flannery O’Connor: 

• Watch “Revelation” from Word on Fire’s Pivotal Players documentary on Flannery O’Connor
  
• Watch Bishop Barron Presents Ethan & Maya Hawke on the making of the biopic “Wildcat.”
  

Lent is a sacred season of prayer, sacrifice, and renewal. For families, it’s an opportunity to grow in faith together through meaningful traditions and engaging activities. Below are ways to make Lent come alive for individuals, and families with children. Deepen your family's journey toward Easter.

Praying the Stations of the Cross

The Stations of the Cross allow families to walk with Jesus through His Passion in a meaningful way. 

• Swipe & Pray – Short Way of the Cross (Franciscan Mission tradition)
• Way of the Cross at the Colosseum | Meditations by Pope Francis
• Way of the Cross at the Colosseum | Meditations by Pope Benedict XVI
• Way of the Cross at the Colosseum | Meditations by St. Pope John Paul IIBrother Francis - Stations of the Cross for children: Brother Francis: The Stations of the Cross - Stations of the Cross - FORMED
• Pray the Stations of the Cross with Hallow app on your phone
• Praying the Stations of the Cross at home
• For Teens & Children:
  • Stations of the Cross for Teens
  • Brother Francis: The Stations of the Cross (FORMED)

Family-Friendly Lenten Activities

Help children enter into the meaning of Lent through hands-on activities and traditions.

• Receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation as a family | Download Confession Card for Children
• Bury the ​Alleluia – A solemn way to say goodbye to a very joyous word until it is said again at Easter.
• Hang the Stations of the Cross in your home – Create a visual reminder of Jesus’ journey
• Try 79 Meatless Meal for Lent ideas 
• Create a Lenten Prayer Chain – Write prayer intentions or acts of kindness on strips of paper and link them together, adding a new one each day. Here's an example
• Start a Sacrifice Jar – Encourage children to place small tokens (beans, beads) in a jar each time they make a sacrifice. On Easter, replace them with treats to symbolize the joy of self-giving. Here's an example
• Follow a Children Lenten Calendar 2025 – Simple daily ideas of Lenten actions.
• Make a Lent Board - Display Lenten goals, sacrifices, and Scripture verses.
  Lenten Arts & Craft Ideas – Check out 40 Ideas for 40 Days for engaging activities that keep Lent meaningful.
• Engage in Daily Lenten Reflections – Set aside time each evening for a short Scripture reading and discussion.
• Pray the Rosary Together – Focus on the Sorrowful Mysteries during Lent.
• Celebrate the Feast of St. Joseph (March 19th)
  • ​Set up a simple St. Joseph’s Altar with candles, bread, and flowers, and share a special family meal.
  • Attend the Jubilee Year's Solemnity of St. Joseph Mass at the Cathedral with Bishop McGrattan on Wednesday, March 19, 2025 at 7 pm - where he will give the Apostolic Blessing. More info 

Lenten Series for Children

Formed.org offers a wealth of Catholic content suitable for children, especially during Holy Week and Easter. 

• Brother Francis Series
  • The Bread of Life: Celebrating the Eucharist: This episode provides an engaging depiction of the Last Supper, making it ideal for Holy Thursday. ​
  • The Stations of the Cross: Guides children through the Stations with thoughtful meditations, suitable for Good Friday viewing.
  • He Is Risen! The Power of the Resurrection: Celebrates Jesus's Resurrection, perfect for the Easter season.
    ​
• The Wonderful World of Benjamin Cello
  • O Lamb of God, I Love You: A special episode dedicated to Holy Week and Easter, featuring a shadow puppet show of the Passion. ​
    
    
• The Witnesses Trilogy
  • God with Us: An animated film covering the life, death, and Resurrection of Christ​
  • The Messengers: The Birth of the Early Church: Explores the beginnings of the Church following Christ's Ascension.​
  • To Every Nation: Depicts the missionary journeys of the apostles spreading the Gospel.

Lent is more than a season—it’s a journey of the heart, a call to renewal, and an invitation to draw closer to Christ. Whether through prayer, reflection, music, or storytelling, these resources can help you enter into Lent more fully. Let them guide, challenge, and inspire you to embrace this sacred time with depth and purpose.

Playlist for Sacred Music during Holy Week & Triduum

​Holy Week and the Paschal Triduum invite us to walk with Christ through His Passion, Death, and Resurrection. From the solemn chants of Holy Thursday to the sorrowful strains of Good Friday, the silence of Holy Saturday, and the triumphant hymns of Easter Sunday, these selections capture the essence of this most holy time.​

• Play/Listen now

Lenten Video Series
​

• Daily Lenten Video Series with Fr. Josh Johnson: Set Free
  The Daily Lenten Video Series with Fr. Josh Johnson helps you recognize the seven deadly sins, prepare for Lent with specific fasts, and grow in discipline. It also guides you in prayer and provides a step-by-step examination of conscience for a deeper confession experience.​
  
  
• Journey through Lent 2025 – Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops
  Join Bishop Franken as he leads us through a meaningful Lenten journey in 2025. With reflections on Ash Wednesday and the First Sunday of Lent, Bishop Franken helps us embrace the season’s challenges and joys, guiding us closer to Christ.
  ​

• How to Lent
  How to Lent is a new series from the Augustine Institute that aims to equip Catholics with the tools to understand and practice the pillars of Lent: prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. Guided by Solenne Santiago and with the help of priests and religious, this series will challenge our preconceived notions about Lent, laying out a roadmap for entering the season with a purpose. Don’t let Lent sneak up on you like it did last year. Instead, heed the call of St. John the Baptist by preparing for the Lord, using How to Lent to transform your spiritual life this Lenten season.
  
  
• Triduum: A Spiritual Pilgrimage
  A beautiful, 30 minute contemplative documentary. This film cinematically walks through the locations of the Holy Week story, re-presenting the most important days of human history. Immersed in the real and sacred places of the Holy Land, the pilgrim faithful is brought tangibly nearer to the story, the landscape, and the reality of the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ. 
  ​
• Lent – Formed Resources
  In this collection are resources to help the faithful deepen their understanding of various Lenten days, practices, and devotions. You can find resources on prayer, the mystery of Christ's Passion, the roots of Holy Week found in Judaism, and many things to help guide the faithful through the holiest days in our liturgical year—the Triduum.

 

​Shrove / Fat Tuesday / Mardi Gras

• One of the great riches of the Catholic tradition is the way the year is marked with various days of feasting and fasting. One such feast day is Fat Tuesday (from French Mardi Gras), also called Shrove Tuesday, the day preceding Ash Wednesday and the beginning of Lent. On a practical note, it is a day to get rid of all the fats, meats, and desserts from your home before the Lenten fast begins. But on a spiritual note, Fat Tuesday is a day to rejoice in God’s abundance and generosity to us. So have an extra goody this Fat Tuesday, but when you do, give thanks to God for His goodness.
  
  

Ash Wednesday

• Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent, a 40-day journey of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving in preparation for Easter. It is a day of fasting and abstinence, reminding us of our need for repentance and our dependence on God. As we receive ashes on our foreheads, we are called to turn back to Him with open hearts.
  
  Fasting and Abstinence Requirements
  Catholics aged 18 to 59 are required to fast, meaning they may eat one full meal and two smaller meals that together do not equal a full meal, with no snacks in between. Catholics aged 14 and older must abstain from meat. As the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 1434) teaches, fasting is an expression of interior penance, helping us detach from worldly comforts and rely more on God.
  
  

Laetare Sunday

• The Fourth Sunday of Lent, called Laetare (Rejoice) from the first word of the Entrance Chant (Isaiah 66:10). It is a day where the more rigorous lenten practices are temporarily lifted, since it marks being past the half-way point of the Lenten Journey; we are now closer to Easter than we are to the beginning of Lent. Priests may wear rose (pink) coloured vestments as a sign of increased solemnity and joy. Keen listeners will note that the prescribed Entrance Chant’s melody resembles the Easter Vigil’s Alleluia, musically prefiguring the Easter Joy that is now so near.
  
  

Palm Sunday

• The Sunday before Easter is celebrated in a particularly solemn way, typically with the blessing of palm branches, processions and special music. Palm Sunday commemorates Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem where He is hailed as the Son of David, the Messiah. While certainly a joyous occasion, the Gospel for this day, St. Mark’s Passion, reminds us that Jesus enters Jerusalem ultimately to die on the Cross.
  
  

Holy Week

• As its name suggests, this is the holiest week of the year. Throughout this week, we journey with Christ through the profound events of His Passion, Death, and Resurrection. 
  
  

Paschal Triduum

• Holy Thursday marks the celebration of the Last Supper and the Institution of the Eucharist
• Good Friday marks the solemn remembrance of Jesus’ crucifixion and death.
  Fasting and abstinence requirements on Good Friday: Catholics aged 18 to 59 are required to fast, meaning they may eat one full meal and two smaller meals that together do not equal a full meal, with no snacks in between. Catholics aged 14 and older must abstain from meat. 
• Holy Saturday is a somber, silent, and strange day when the order of the universe is turned upside down. God is dead. The earth is gripped by a deep silence. It is the only day of the year where the Eucharist is not distributed.  ​

Easter Sunday
Christ is Risen from the dead, glorify Him!

Eastern Sunday is the holiest day of the Christian year, the cornerstone of the Christian faith, the definitive centre of all of history. This day marks the victory of life over death and the fulfillment of God’s promise of salvation. This day is the culmination of the Paschal Mystery, bringing joy and hope as Jesus Christ opens the way to eternal life.

Lent comes around yearly, but have you ever stopped to ask what it means and why it matters?

We are taking this opportunity to discuss the three pillars of Lent—prayer, fasting, and almsgiving—and highlight the How to Lent  series from Formed.org. Through Scripture, each episode explores these disciplines, helping you approach Lent with greater intention and purpose.

A Plenary Indulgence may be received in the Diocese of Calgary by doing the following during the period from December 29, 2024 through December 31, 2025:
​
At least once during the Holy Year:

• Receive sacramental confession and absolution
• Receive Holy Communion

And, while striving to be free from attachment to sin, carry out any of the following:
​

1. Make a pilgrimage visit, whether individually or as a group (family, parish, co-workers, etc.), to either St. Mary’s Cathedral, Calgary, or The Shrine Church of Our Lady of the Rockies, Canmore, and while visiting those sites take time for prayer specifically for the intentions of the Holy Father.
   ​
2. Make a pilgrimage visit to St. John the Evangelist Ordinariate Parish, Calgary, and while visiting this church take time for prayer specifically for the intentions of the Holy Father.
   
   
3. Attend any of the Masses with Apostolic Blessing by Bishop William T. McGrattan on: 
   1. March 19, Solemnity of St. Joseph, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary, at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Calgary
   2. August 22, Memorial of the Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary at the Shrine Church of Our Lady of the Rockies, Canmore
   3. December 8, Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Calgary
      
      
4. Those who are truly repentant of sin, but who cannot participate in diocesan pilgrimages, can receive the Jubilee Indulgence by prayerfully reciting the Our Father and any approved version of the Profession of Faith (Creed), and also praying for the intentions of the Holy Father. Those who are homebound due to age, illness, imprisonment, etc., may also offer up their suffering as a prayer for others and/or for the poor souls in purgatory.
   
   
5.  Visit for an appropriate amount of time family members, neighbours or friends who are in need (such as the sick, lonely elderly people, the disabled, prisoners, etc). This visit is to be made with a vibrant awareness of Christ’s presence in these persons in need.
   
   
6.  Carry out personal acts of penance for an entire day (particularly Fridays), such as:
   - Abstain from eating meat
   - Abstain from futile distractions (such as entertainment, social media, etc.)
   - Abstain from unnecessary consumption of food or drink (fasting)
   
   
7.  Carry out significant acts of charity such as:
   - Contribute to the poor
   - Support the homeless, the orphan, the migrant or refugee, etc.
   - Contribute a significant amount of one’s free time to worthy volunteer activities in support of human life and dignity
   
   

During the Jubilee Year an individual may receive one Plenary Indulgence per day, and may apply that indulgence to themselves or to a deceased person. 

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Earlier this week, Bishop William McGrattan, President of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB), called on the faithful to pray for Pope Francis, lifting the Holy Father in our prayers and intentions during his sickness. "May the Lord, through Our Lady’s powerful intercession, grant him renewed strength, health, and energy in his vocation to serve the Church as the Successor of Peter and the Vicar of Christ on earth."

​Let us unite in prayer, asking God to strengthen Pope Francis, ease his suffering, and restore him to health so he may continue his ministry for our Universal Church.

Written by Fr. Jonathan Gibson, Associate Pastor of St. Anthony's, Calgary 
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​I would like to invite you to join God Squad Canada and Heroic Men for a one-of-a-kind concert on March 17th. God Squad, a men’s ministry active in Calgary for 28 years, sponsored Canadian composer Carlos Foggin to set the Litany of St. Joseph to music.  

In 1624 St Joseph was declared the Patron Saint of Canada. In 1870 Blessed Pope Pius IX declared him the Patron of the Universal Church. The Pope said of St. Joseph that because of the sublime dignity that was his as the spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the earthly father of Jesus, the Church has always “most highly honoured him and praised blessed Joseph next to his spouse, the Virgin Mother of God, and has besought his intercession in times of trouble.”
One of the key expressions of this intercessory prayer is the Litany of St Joseph. Litaniae Sancti Ioseph (Latin) is a formal prayer of the Church and was approved for public use by Pope St. Pius X in 1909. In 2021 Pope Francis added seven invocations to the Litany.

For the first time, the Litany has been set to music for full orchestra, chorus, soloists and organ. The Jack Singer Concert Hall will be the venue for the concert where the Casavant organ will be featured with the orchestral ensemble and singers. This is a work that will draw the audience into a place of deep reverence and prayer as the text in sung in Latin.
The 13 movements of the Litany of St. Joseph will express the full dynamic and tonal range of the musicians and incorporate various musical styles that have a Canadian character to them. Mr. Foggin described the composition this way: “The music captures the essence of rolling hills and gentle rivers, the warmth of summers, the harshness of winter, and the overwhelming majesty of the Rocky Mountains themselves”. So, this universal prayer will have an Albertan character to it inspiring us to a deeper devotion to St. Joseph.

This will be an evening where we will be able to give thanks to God for the patronage of St. Joseph while celebrating the premier of a Canadian composition written for the glory and praise of God.

Please join us at 7 PM on Monday, March 17 at the Jack Singer Concert Hall.

Written by Sean Lynn, God Squad Canada Society.

As February draws to a close and the promise of spring fills the air, we prepare to celebrate the month of March, traditionally dedicated to St. Joseph. This year’s celebrations are particularly special for God Squad Canada, with a jam-packed week leading up to the Solemnity of St. Joseph on March 19th.

The festivities kick off with the highly anticipated Men's Conference on March 14th and 15th. Held at St. Michael's Catholic Community, this year's theme, "Pilgrims of Hope," promises to inspire and uplift. Attendees will be treated to insightful presentations from two remarkable speakers: Jeff Joaquin and Fr. Dcn. Andrew Bennett. As an added bonus, the conference will feature the always-popular Spolumbo sausages. It is a great opportunity to invite a friend or your sons to build brotherhood and community.

​The celebrations don't stop there! We invite everyone to a truly unique event: the world premiere of The Litany of St. Joseph in live concert. This special Jubilee Year event will take place on Monday, March 17th, 2025, at 7 PM at the Jack Singer Concert Hall.  The concert will feature diverse choirs, including the Vietnamese church choir from St. Vincent Liem, the Nigerian choir, the French choir from Sainte-Famille Church, the St. Francis Xavier Chaplaincy choir, and the Bishop McNally High School choir. Soloist Michelle Todd, who has performed at other venues such as the prestigious Royal Albert Hall, will grace the stage, adding to the evening's brilliance.

The highlight of the concert will undoubtedly be the performance of the Litany of St. Joseph in song, commissioned by God Squad Canada and composed by the talented Carlos Foggin. This grand finale will feature a full orchestra, four soloists, and a combined choir, making it an unforgettable musical experience.

We also invite you to the Solemnity of St. Joseph Mass with Bishop William T. McGrattan at St Mary’s Cathedral on Wednesday, March 19th. Bishop McGrattan will impart his Apostolic blessing for the Jubilee Year, making this a truly momentous occasion. 

This March promises to be a time of spiritual enrichment and community building in the Diocese of Calgary.  With the Men's Conference, the world premiere concert, and the celebratory Mass, there are opportunities for everyone to participate in this Jubilee Year celebration honouring St. Joseph. Don't miss out on these incredible events!

This year’s Chinese New Year Banquet (Feb 7, 2025) hosted by Our Lady of Perpetual Help (OLPH) at the Chinese Cultural Centre was truly a Jubilee celebration! Titled Pilgrims of Hope, this wasn’t their usual parish celebration—it brought together performances and ministries from all over the Diocese. This year, choirs from St. Michael’s, St. Vincent Liem, St. Mark’s, Our Lady of Fatima, St. Luke, and more added to the festivity with their music and messages of hope.

One of the night's biggest highlights was the Dragon Dance, performed by both adult and youth groups. The evening also featured a Wushu performance, dances, traditional songs, and an energetic young adults' performance with catchy tunes that had everyone clapping along with "Sweet Caroline." Another standout moment was a skit depicting an immigrant family’s journey to Calgary and how they found a home in the parish community, performed by OLPH’s largest ministry, Catholic Family Fellowship. The generous lucky draw also kept the excitement going throughout the night. Here's a snippet from the performances in a 10-minute video. 

Deacon Edward Lam and his wife, Anne, who coordinated the event, were pleased with the turnout—over 600 guests and volunteers packed the venue. It was clear the event was beyond sold out, as many observed, “All the tables were packed, barely any room to move; the tables overflowed to outside the hall.”

For the Jubilee Year, OLPH's three choirs combined their efforts and sang the Jubilee 2025 Hymn "Pilgrims of Hope" in English, Mandarin, and more languages. This was followed by an inspiring reflection on the Jubilee's blessings, renewal, and hope by Bishop McGrattan.

Photos courtesy of Our Lady of Perpetual Help. For more photos, click here.

The Diocese of Calgary continues the journey of pastoral renewal as parishes enter the Parish Renewal Planning stage. Over the past year, communities have engaged in listening and discernment through the Parish Renewal Survey and parish conversations. Now, ministry leaders in parishes across the diocese are preparing to take the next steps in planning and implementation.

Parish Renewal Teams across the Diocese

On Saturday, Feb. 8, Parish Renewal Teams (PRTs) across the diocese gathered in their parishes to take part in an important formation session. Bishop McGrattan and the Diocesan Renewal Leadership Team joined via Zoom to guide the discussion, outlining the next steps for parish renewal planning. The session reinforced that this is not just another initiative—it is a call to trust the Holy Spirit and step forward in faith.
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One of the strongest takeaways from the meeting was clarity. Many teams appreciated the structure, and feel more equipped for the next stage. "The timeline was absolutely helpful. Now we have a clear process to follow, and an important reminder: this is about discernment, not personal agendas." 

"Useful templates and clear instructions so that PRTs do not have to develop their own format."

For others, the session provided much-needed reassurance that Renewal is not about rushing to quick solutions, as noted by one participant, "Renewal is a process…it will take time. That’s a relief. It had felt overwhelming at times." 

Above all, there was a shared sense of commitment—not just from parish leaders, but from the diocese as a whole. One participant shared, "We need to lean on and trust the Holy Spirit to guide us. A lot of work has been put in by the diocesan team to provide us with the direction and tools we made to proceed. The Diocese is committed!" 

Moving from discernment to action

With the vision in place, parishes are now preparing for their Parish Renewal Planning Days. These gatherings will be dedicated times of prayer, reflection, and strategic planning, where ministry leaders will come together to set priorities for their communities. The process will unfold in stages:

• ​Step 1: Entering the Planning Stage (Where we are now)
  Parishes are officially beginning their Parish Renewal Planning. After a year of listening and discernment, ministry leaders will gather for a Parish Renewal Planning Day to pray, reflect, and set priorities for the future.
  
  
• Step 2: Parish Renewal Planning Day
  A dedicated day of prayer and planning, where parish leadership will seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance to shape the renewal process. More than a meeting, this is a time to trust, surrender, and step forward in faith.
  
  
• Step 3: First Draft
  Following the Planning Day, the Parish Renewal Team will draft the first version of the Parish Renewal Plan. The broader parish community will have an opportunity to review and provide input.
  
  
• Step 4: Finalizing the Plan
  With feedback from both parishioners and parish leaders, the final Parish Renewal Plan will be completed and submitted to the Diocese by June 15. This roadmap will guide each parish in faith, mission, and growth.
  
  
• Step 5: Plan Kickoff & Commissioning
  On October 4-5, 2025, the Parish Renewal Plan will be officially launched, marking the third anniversary of the Diocesan Pastoral Renewal on the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi. This will be a time of celebration and commitment for the parish community.
  
  
• Step 6: Ongoing Renewal & Annual Review
  Renewal is a journey, not a one-time event. Each year, parishes will review and adjust their plans to remain open to where the Holy Spirit leads.

For many, this structured approach has brought a renewed sense of confidence. One team member remarked, ​“This enables us to have a concrete plan to put into fruition what we have been discerning for the past year.”

​A Shared Journey

The orientation session was a reminder that renewal is not meant to be walked alone. Parish leaders, ministry teams, and the diocesan leadership are all co-responsible in this mission. As each parish continues this process, the faithful are invited to pray for the Holy Spirit’s guidance and to remain engaged in the renewal journey. 

With faith, trust, and a willingness to cast into the deep, let us pray: 

The Indigenous Reconciliation Fund (IRF) are pleased to share Sacred Fire Stories, a short film highlighting Indigenous-led healing initiatives that preserve language, celebrate culture, and support education. This powerful film showcases the real impact of reconciliation in action.

Alongside the film, the Indigenous Reconciliation Fund Annual Report 2024 is now available, detailing the progress of over 200 projects supported by $18.9 million in funds raised since 2022. 

• Watch video here in English | French
• IRF Annual Report
  • Read Press Release in English | French
  • Read IRF 2024 Annual Report in English | French

For more information, visit irfund.ca or contact [email protected]

The closing session was an invitation to continue learning the Faith. David Keep delivered a moving talk on Intellectual Formation, sharing how learning about his Catholic faith led to his conversion—and to his ongoing journey, of continual conversion. His testimony highlighted the call to strive for holiness in everyday life, and it was “a reminder that growth takes time, guidance, support, and grace.”

The day concluded with opportunities for fellowship and moments of quiet reflection, allowing participants to integrate the day’s insights into their own spiritual journeys. Each participant was also given a Jubilee virtue card, encouraging them to entrust themselves to the care of a patron saint for the year.
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Ascension Catholic Parish plans on continuing to provide content that is engaging, thoughtful, and relevant so that parishioners might develop different areas of their lives. As an activity aimed at personal growth and formation, the Formation Day fosters a greater awareness of the diocesan renewal by both teaching the great story of Jesus and His Church, as well as listening to others’ lived experiences of our life as Catholics.

​The lay association Regnum Christi was instrumental in organizing this event, in its mission to educate and prepare youth and families for joy-filled lives of mission, service and prayer through excellent integral formation. Other follow-up activities will be arranged over the course of this Jubilee year. 

Written by Fr. John Paul Luxbacher, LC. To receive invitations to Regnum Christi activities, please feel free to contact [email protected], with the tag “Formation Day.”

Today, on the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes, the Church observes the World Day of Prayer for the Sick, a day dedicated to lifting up those who suffer and those who care for them. The Jubilee of Hope makes this year's celebration particularly special.

In this spirit of hope and renewal, members of the Calgary Catholic Medical Association (CCMA) gathered on February 1, 2025 for their annual breakfast at Heritage Park Railway Café. With Bishop William McGrattan as the keynote speaker, the morning was a rich opportunity for reflection on the theme of holiness, service, and the integration of faith in the medical profession. As Bishop McGrattan highlighted, this jubilee year is indeed an opportunity for healthcare professionals to focus on the perennial challenge to integrate faith in one's life and work of service.

Becoming Beacons of Hope

​Bishop McGrattan's talk, "Mission of Hope," was a real call to action – an invitation to those in medical field to become beacons of hope. He wasn't just talking about expertise, but about living our faith openly. He reminded us what Pope Francis said in Gaudete et Exsultate (Rejoice and Be Glad) – that holiness isn't some far-off, impossible dream for a chosen few, but something we're all called to.

“Holiness is the most attractive face of the Church,” he shared, quoting Gaudete et Exsultate. “To be holy does not require being a bishop, a priest, or a religious. We are frequently tempted to think that holiness is only for those who can withdraw from ordinary affairs to spend much time in prayer. That is not the case. We are called to be holy by living our life with love and by bearing witness in everything we do, wherever we find ourselves.” (GE No. 14)
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He added, "For healthcare professionals, your daily work is more than a job—it is a vocation, a path to holiness. The long hours, the difficult decisions, the emotional weight of your work—these can all be opportunities to bring Christ’s love into the lives of the sick and suffering. But this kind of witness does not happen by accident. It requires intentionality, prayer, and a commitment to growing in faith."

Bishop McGrattan highlighted that this Jubilee Year is an extraordinary time of grace. Pope Francis, in his Bull of Indiction Spes Non Confundit (Hope Does Not Disappoint - Rom 5:5), calls the faithful to a renewed commitment to the Christian life. Read also: Pope Francis' message for the 33rd World Day of the Sick
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“Every jubilee year is an invitation to be more intentional in our living of the Christian life. To renew our life and to focus on the many ways that we receive the gift of God’s grace. It is a year to experience the call to conversion, to strengthen the living of the faith, and deepen our relationship with God,” Bishop said. 

Dr. Monique exlaimed, "It was very helpful for us to have the Bishop role model for us some of the daily habits he uses to carry out His own personal Mission as our Bishop. He spoke to us from his heart, which is a powerful way to teach an important message."

As we mark this World Day of Prayer for the Sick and journey through the Jubilee Year of Hope, let us take to heart the words of Pope Francis: “Let the grace of your baptism bear fruit in the path of holiness. Let everything be open to God; turn to him in every situation. Do not be dismayed, for you can do this in the power of the Holy Spirit.” (GE No. 15)
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For those in the medical field who seek a community of faith and support, the Calgary Catholic Medical Association extends an open invitation: Join us in living out this mission of hope. 

Photos courtesy of Calgary Catholic Medical Association. For more information about Calgary Catholic Medical Association, visit: ​catholicmedyyc.wordpress.com