 On October 2nd, Saint Luke's Parish became the gathering place for an important and cherished tradition: the 46th Annual Sisters Night, hosted by the Knights of Columbus. This banquet is a special occasion where the religious sisters from the Calgary Diocese, along with clergy and lay faithful, come together to honour the immeasurable contributions these women have made to the Church and society. It is the only time each year that all the religious sisters of the diocese gather in one place, making the night a unique and uplifting celebration of faith, dedication, and service. The event drew a total of 90 attendees, including 33 religious sisters, Bishop William McGrattan, two priests, three deacons, and three consecrated virgin candidates. For decades, the Knights of Columbus have been committed to organizing this event, recognizing the sacrifices and impact of religious sisters across Canada. This year's gathering was no different, reflecting both the gratitude of the community and the enduring legacy of service carried on by the sisters. 
 A Legacy of Service to Canada In his opening remarks, the Emcee, Brian Montes, spoke of the deep historical contributions of religious sisters and nuns to the development of Canada. From the earliest days of European settlement, these women were pioneers in building many of the country's foundational institutions. The sisters established the first schools, providing education to countless children, including those in remote and underserved areas. They also played a key role in building hospitals, offering compassionate care long before public health systems were established. Orphanages, too, were built by religious orders, where the sisters provided homes and care for children without families. But beyond their tangible contributions, the sisters have also been steadfast in their spiritual roles, offering guidance, wisdom, and prayers in every corner of the country. Their quiet yet transformative presence has been a pillar of the Church’s mission, and the Knights of Columbus feel it is essential to recognize their enduring influence. Unity in Faith Bishop William McGrattan’s presence at the banquet was a reminder of the unity between the Church’s spiritual leaders and the religious sisters, who form the backbone of so many ministries. His participation spoke of the importance of collaboration between the shepherds of the faith and those who devote their lives to prayer, teaching, healthcare, and charity. In his address, Bishop McGrattan spoke warmly of the sisters’ dedication and expressed the diocese's deep gratitude for their work. He acknowledged the unique role they play, not only in providing spiritual support but also in being a visible example of Christ's love in action. His words resonated with the room, where there was a deep sense of respect and admiration for the sisters' ongoing efforts. The event was also an opportunity for attendees to connect and reflect on the shared mission of the Church. Alongside the sisters, consecrated virgin candidates, priests, deacons, and laypeople, all engaged in fellowship, united in their devotion to serving others. The highlight of the evening was the tribute to the religious sisters. The Knights of Columbus ensured that the event was not only a time of celebration but also one of reflection on the profound courage it takes to embrace the consecrated life. In a world that often prioritizes material wealth and individualism, the sisters' lives of selflessness stand as a powerful counterpoint. They have chosen to live by the vows of chastity, poverty, and obedience, dedicating themselves entirely to the service of God and others. Of note, five sisters that were celebrating a jubilee of vows were:
Submitted by Renwick de Souza. Photos courtesy of Victor Panilio.
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Catholic Pastoral Centre Staff and Guest Writers Archives
November 2025
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