2023 Jubilarians

This year, seven remarkable priests in our diocese are reaching significant milestones in their priestly vocation. Each has uniquely responded to their calling, overcoming challenges with steadfast faith and dedication throughout their ministries. Read their stories, and join us as we honour and celebrate these extraordinary priests for their dedication and service.

Fr. Gregory Coupal

Raised in Calgary, Fr. Greg Coupal entered seminary in 1965, right as the Second Vatican Council closed. As such, much of his priestly training was lived out in the midst of major changes and upheavals. However, in the midst of all of these new things, Fr. Greg's priestly life testifies to a cyclical kind of time, where that which is important returns again as a gift from God.

Despite all the changes that have happened in his time, Fr. Greg has done his best to be one of these signs, pointing out God’s love for us steadily, throughout the cycles of his 50 golden years of priestly ministry. For Fr. Greg, at the centre of the all of the cycles of changes is the firm belief that priestly life is a "sign of God's love".  Read more

Read Fr. Greg's vocation story | Fr. Gregory Coupal: Signs of God's love

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Fr. Michael L. Storey

Celebrating half a century as a servant of God, Father Michael Storey's vocation story unfolds like a beautiful tapestry woven with faith, dedication, and service.

As a Pastor, Fr. Mike had the privilege of serving in numerous parishes within the diocese, each assignment enriching his journey and strengthening his commitment to serve God's people. With thankfulness and fond memories he looks back on his call from God in thanksgiving for all that the Lord had done and accomplished through his words, his hands and his heart! ​ Read more​

Read his vocation story | Fr. Michael Storey: Servant of God

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Fr. Bryan Frank

In a world where early vocations to the priesthood are often celebrated, Fr. Bryan Frank stands as a testament to the power of a late calling. His life took a different trajectory before he answered the call to serve God and his community. 

Before stepping into the seminary at the age of thirty, Fr. Bryan had already carved out a successful career in sales and entrepreneurship, backed by a diploma in Business Administration. Yet, the divine call resonated within him, influencing him to change paths and dedicate his life to spiritual service. Read more

Read his vocation story | Fr. Bryan Frank: Looking back

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Fr. Roy Jayamaha

Born in Wattala, Sri Lanka, Fr. Jayamaha was drawn to religious life from a young age. His path took a turn when he met a Sri Lankan missionary priest serving in Pakistan, leading him to offer his services as a missionary in Lahore, Pakistan. It was a challenging assignment, but one that Fr. Jayamaha embraced wholeheartedly.

However, after a harrowing incident with gunmen, his time in Pakistan ended. Unexpectedly, this journey led him to Calgary, Alberta, where he continues his ministry.​ His journey is a story of courage, resilience, and unwavering commitment to serving others. Read more

Read his vocation story | Fr. Roy Jayamaha: A missionary journey

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Fr. Jerald D'Souza, OCD

Fr. Jerald D'Souza, OCD, was born into a rural community outside of Mangalore, India. He showed signs of a religious vocation early on in life - he would often preach to the herd of cattle he was assigned to tend while in the pasture with them.

Fr. Jerry has had his fair share of trials in approaching the altar of God, but now, 25 years after ordination, the joy and happiness of being a religious is at the centre of his priestly vocation. Read More

Read his vocation story | Fr. Jerald D'Souza: A joyful religious

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Fr. Sajo Jacob

From the rich landscapes of Kerala in southern India to the bustling cityscape of Calgary, the spiritual journey of Fr. Sajo Jacob is a testament to the power of faith and the calling of service. After six years of dedicated service in various capacities within his priestly ministry in Kerala, Fr. Sajo embarked on a new chapter in his spiritual voyage, relocating to Calgary in 2004. 

Reflecting on his 25-year priestly journey as pastor, young adult chaplain, Syro Malabar community leader, hospital chaplain, and a reserve chaplain, Fr. Sajo highlights two fundamental aspects of his vocation: the Grace of God and the intercession of Mother Mary. Read more

Read his vocation story | Fr. Sajo Jacob: God has walked with me

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​Fr. Alexander Braganza, OCD

Fr. Alexander Braganza, OCD, is a new priest in the Diocese of Calgary. He had been appointed Associate Pastor of St. Thomas More Parish, Calgary, effective August 3, 2023. Prior to this assignment, Fr. Alexander was appointed to the Little Flower Monastery in India. Fr. Braganza celebrates his 25th year anniversary this year!

​Stay tuned for Fr. Alexander's vocation story. 

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2023 Jubilarian stories were organized and compiled by Solomon Ip. Solomon is a born and raised Calgarian. He studied music history in Lethbridge, and is now a seminarian in his pre-theology studies at St. Joseph's Seminary in Edmonton. He has been worshipping most recently with Canadian Martyrs Parish in Calgary, and with St. Mary's Parish in Banff where he has been working as a heritage interpreter with Parks Canada. He is an oboist by training, a chorister by grace, hobby wordsmith, amateur calligrapher, and museum enthusiast.