Written by Sean Lynn, God Squad Canada. Where to begin when recounting the extraordinary events of March 17th, 2025, at the Jack Singer Concert Hall? Does one trace the genesis back to the August 2020 God Squad board meeting, where the seed of this ambitious project was first planted? Or perhaps, to the hushed intensity of the orchestra rehearsal, a day prior? Should we linger on the anticipation of a family, eager to experience the music’s premiere, unsullied by rehearsal clips? Or capture the surreal arrival of the video team, greeted by the ethereal strains of Gregorian chant in the lobby? The journey to this Jubilee Year “Pilgrims of Hope” event was indeed a long and winding one but let us begin with the intimate dinner hosted by the God Squad board, welcoming Apostolic Nuncio, His Excellency Archbishop Ivan Jurkovič, Bishop William McGrattan, and Bishop Gregory Bittman. Amidst a warm meal and lively conversation, a sense of anticipation permeated the air. Soon, the group crossed the street, entering the concert hall to find a vibrant scene: a bustling ticket office, a lobby filled with excited attendees from across the diocese, and a palpable sense of expectation. A slight delay ensued as the numerous choirs adjusted to the stage, but the atmosphere remained charged. From backstage, as Bishop McGrattan and the Nuncio prepared, the sight of countless smiling faces radiated hope. Tony Rino, the evening’s MC, took the stage, and Bishop McGrattan opened with a heartfelt prayer. The Apostolic Nuncio followed, inviting the audience into the contemplative space of the Litany. The concert unfolded, a tapestry woven with diverse voices and profound expressions of faith. The 68-strong St. Vincent Liem choir launched the evening with a powerful tribute to St. Joseph, setting a tone of reverence. The Sainte-Famille Choir’s moving Agnus Dei transitioned into a gospel-infused celebration of the Holy Spirit. The “Vatican Choir,” the Blessed Iwene, Nigerian Igbo Catholic Community Calgary, captivated with their traditional attire and harmonious Igbo melodies. The Bishop McNally High School Choir offered a youthful and hopeful performance, followed by the delicate grace of the St. Francis Xavier Chaplaincy Choir- The St. Hildegard Society. The first half concluded with international singer Michelle Todd, whose crystal-clear voice rendered captivating renditions of Ave Maria and Our Father, moving Tony Rino to tears. Intermission buzz was filled with awe and anticipation. Then, composer and conductor Carlos Foggin invited the audience to “allow the music to transport you to a place of reflection and prayer.” Concertmaster Theresa Dumbrique gracefully led the orchestra in tuning, and then, a hush fell as Carlos raised his baton. The opening chimes, reminiscent of church bells, ushered in a sacred atmosphere. The Kyrie Eleison, resonated with profound intensity, holding the audience captive until the final, glorious Amen. Describing the experience is a challenge. A “soul-penetrating performance,” as one attendee put it, captured the essence of the moment. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with calls for a repeat performance and a sense of witnessing something truly historic. The lobby shimmered with an electric energy as attendees processed the profound experience. The days following the concert brought a flood of heartfelt testimonials. One attendee noted the significance of the diverse choirs, highlighting the universal nature of the Church in Calgary. Bishop McGrattan echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the unity he felt as choir members joined for the Litany. Another shared their emotional response, moved to tears by the devotion to St. Joseph. The St. Vincent Liem choir expressed a desire to participate in future events, demonstrating the profound impact on their youth. Fr. Wilbert spoke of the graces flowing from this Jubilee Year event. Maria and Ian Doll offered a succinct and powerful summary: “Hats off to God Squad Canada, Carlos Foggin, all the singers, musicians, and volunteers that made the World Premier of the orchestral and choral Litany of Saint Joseph a powerful evening of witness, worship, and unity. Each choir was superb and unique in their choice of songs and expression. Carlos’ introduction of the Litany and his entreaty to put away our phones and prayerfully experience the music inspired us. The Litany blew us away. So many Catholics from across the diocese, united with our bishop and the Papal Nuncio to Canada in honoring Saint Joseph, was a huge witness to our city, our nation, the Universal Church, and the world and a tangible reminder that we are all pilgrims of hope.” As God Squad Canada contemplates the future of this project, prayers are requested. A professional video of the Litany is in production, poised to share this extraordinary experience with a wider audience. The echoes of March 17th continue to resonate, a testament to the power of music, faith, and unity. Photos courtesy of Bandi Szakony for God Squad Canada
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“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):
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.
How often do we hear ourselves say, “I’m too busy,” when invited to something outside our routine? No doubt that with full calendars and countless responsibilities, carving out 5 hours on a Saturday for our Parish Renewal Planning Day would feel like just another obligation. Yet, despite their reservations, St. Joseph's Parish ministry leaders showed up. Not just that, but they also brought with them the same kindness, dedication, and willingness to serve, which made their ministries thrive. At first, some weren’t sure what to expect, but as the discussions unfolded, something shifted. The conversations were engaging, and many found themselves drawn in. One ministry leader admitted, "Honestly, when I first got the invitation, it felt like a chore, and finding the time for this meeting was tough. But once the discussion started with other ministry leaders, I quickly thought, ‘Oh, I like this—and where it’s going!’" Engagement was high —faces definitely lit up with passion as ministry leaders exchanged ideas, eager to enrich their parish communities with the gift of their ministries. "Time flew by, and we had rich discussions and new perspectives were definitely gained." This energy carried into the heart of our Parish Planning Day, where leaders tackled the challenge of transforming survey insights and parishioner feedback into meaningful steps for renewal. The goal wasn’t just to discuss change but to bring it to life in a way that strengthens and inspires the entire parish community. With fifteen of our nineteen ministries represented, the day was rich with diverse perspectives on the future of our parish. This spirit of renewal is nothing new to us—throughout our history, dating back to 1912, St. Joseph’s Parish has continually adapted to serve the needs of our community. From our early years serving nearly all of north Calgary of the Bow River to becoming a cornerstone of faith for families in Mount Pleasant, our parish has always embraced renewal. Today, it’s wonderful to see multiple generations worshipping in the same space where their faith journey began. That sense of legacy was alive during the Renewal Planning Day. As ministry leaders reflected on their mission, many found new clarity and inspiration. The goal was not just to discuss ideas but to spark a renewed focus in our ministries—to refocus goals, foster collaboration, and find new ways to call others into faith. By doing so, we can better reach those separated from God’s word and build a strong community of faithful families with the love of the Lord at the center of their lives. For many, the small group discussions were especially powerful. One participant expressed, "Our discussions, especially in our ministry area group, are important. I felt validated—my concerns were heard, and that mattered,” shared one participant. Another reflected, “It was eye-opening to hear from other leaders. I hadn’t expected such deep attention and care for my ministry’s challenges and vision.” As a parish, we face the same challenges as the broader Calgary community—affordable housing, redevelopment, poverty, and addiction. And in the broader context, we are walking alongside other parishes around the world trying to call back those who have left their faith practice. This planning day set the stage for how St. Joseph might prepare to tackle the challenges of its next 100 years. With renewal efforts in the Diocese beginning in 2017, the 2024 Diocesan survey offered parishioners a chance to provide extensive feedback. Now, with our March planning day, we take the next step—turning those insights into action. For some, the experience was transformative. One ministry leader admitted, “I thought I knew what my ministry needed coming into this meeting, but I underestimated the process. After time in discussions and prayer, it became clear that my ministry was called to support another—to help each other thrive, so together, we can strengthen our parish’s evangelization.” I felt blessed to see our ministry leaders passionately discuss their ministries and how they impact the people they serve. Even more exciting was seeing opportunities bubble to the surface for greater ministry coordination during the assessment portion of the day. One ministry leader tried to capture the heart of the renewal: “This isn’t about just strengthening my own ministry or parish. Evangelization has to be at the centre of everything. We’re not called to work in silos for our own small goals—by working together, we can accomplish far more for Christ.” That mindset—collaborating beyond individual ministries—also challenges us to be more adaptable. How do we stay nimble, communicate new opportunities effectively, and help our parish respond to the fast-paced changes ahead? What I think all members of the Diocese can be excited about with this renewal effort is that it is not a one-and-done event. It’s a continual cycle - listening, reflecting, acting, and then listening again. This planning day equipped ministry leaders with a framework to carry that process into their own ministries, helping our parish prepare not just for today but for the next 100 years. As participants wrapped up the session, the intensity of the discussions was clear. Watching people leave the session, you could see we were drained. Five hours of evaluating, planning, and praying took its toll. But, in a good way. A little like taking all our worries and petitions at the foot of His altar. 'Alright Lord, we’ve done everything we can. Now it’s Your turn." 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!” Photos credit: Victor Panlilio, for the Diocese of Calgary.
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:
Your marriage is a Gift - Make it a Sacrament.
Join the last two info sessions of Sacred Grace
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:
Consider these simple ways to pray for renewal in our heart, our parish, and our diocese this Lenten season:
Prayer to the Holy Spirit Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful. Renewal Intentions
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.
Family-Friendly Lenten Activities Help children enter into the meaning of Lent through hands-on activities and traditions.
Lenten Series for Children Formed.org offers a wealth of Catholic content suitable for children, especially during Holy Week and Easter.
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. Praying the Stations of the Cross The Stations of the Cross allow us to walk with Jesus through His Passion in a meaningful way:
Books
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. Lenten Video Series
Shrove / Fat Tuesday / Mardi Gras
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:
And, while striving to be free from attachment to sin, carry out any of the following:
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. O God, shepherd and ruler of all the faithful, Written by Fr. Jonathan Gibson, Associate Pastor of St. Anthony's, Calgary 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. A Month of Blessing: Celebrating St. JosephWritten 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. Volunteer Susan Li shared, “Tonight was filled with amazing energy, laughter and chatter, and the aroma of delicious dishes!” From performers to guests, everyone felt the unity and joy of the evening. She added, “The lion and dragon dances were always the cultural highlights, and the lucky draws kept everyone excited. It was a night to remember.” For Val DeGagne, a choir coordinator from St. Luke’s, the night was more than just a performance. “My choir thoroughly enjoyed the evening—fun, food, entertainment—it had it all,” she said. “The hospitality was amazing, and the event was so well organized. And honestly, we don’t often get time to just sit and visit like that, so it was really special.” One guest shared: this is the event she looks forward to all year. “It’s never the same twice, and it’s wonderful to see how a small parish can pull off something this big! And let’s be honest—the food is always incredible,” she said. The traditional 10-course Chinese meal was, as always, a huge hit. This jubilee celebration was a reflection of what we are called to embrace this year — faith, unity, and a deeper connection with one another in Christ. With such an incredible turnout, it’s clear that this beloved tradition will continue to grow and inspire for years to come. 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. 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:
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: For our parish community, called to pastoral renewal, may the Holy Spirit pour forth upon our parish and ministry leaders who will be involved in the planning process. Grant them wisdom, courage, and unity to discern Your will and embrace renewal for the growth of our faith community. May this renewal journey deepen our relationship with Jesus Christ and empower us to be His faithful disciples, bringing hope and love to all we encounter, let us pray to the Lord... 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. For more information, visit irfund.ca or contact [email protected] On Saturday, January 25, 2025, in the context of our diocesan Renewal, Ascension Catholic Parish with Regnum Christi hosted a faith formation day entitled Building a Better Life. This “Integral Formation” Day provided an opportunity to nourish various aspects of the Christian personality. It touched upon four themes, each corresponding to one of four “pillars” of development, namely our human, spiritual, apostolic, and intellectual formation. The presentations offered insights as well as practical tools to deepen the daily living of our faith. The day began with a session on The Language of Apology, led by Eileen Coady. She explored the profound impact of sincerity and vulnerability in relationships. Later on in the morning, Fr. Janick Caouette, LC spoke on Living Our Baptismal Promises. This delved into the extended rite of baptism from the Roman Missal. “Understanding more of the baptismal promises was incredibly insightful,” said one participant, “Everyone should hear them.” Michelle Hoffman guided participants through Ignatian Meditation Using Art, providing a structured and transformative way to pray. We listen to God in his Word, with art helping to open new intuitions, through Beauty. 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. 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) 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 “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. For Catholic healthcare workers, this means resisting the temptation to separate their faith from their profession. The Second Vatican Council warned against this tendency: “One of the most serious errors of our time is to see that religion and faith are not just acts of worship or simply fulfilling moral obligations and that one cannot simply engage in human affairs and think that such activities are divorced or separated from one’s religious life and faith” (Gaudium et Spes No. 43). Rather, faith must permeate every aspect of life—including work. Pope Francis cautioned against an “excess of activity” that lacks adequate spiritual grounding, warning that “without this spiritual permeation our activity can be tiring, burdensome, dissatisfying, and become an unbearable fatigue.” (Evangelii Gaudium No. 82) A Recipe for Spiritual Resilience How can healthcare professionals cultivate this integration of faith and work? Each one of us is called to do the personal work to grow in Holiness. The bishop emphasized that the willingness to grow in this way is an act of love towards God. The ‘recipe‘ he proposed can be found in The Six Daily Habits book by Fr. John O’Brien, SJ, who lives at the Martyr’s Shrine in Midland , Ontario.
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) 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
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March 2025
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