 We're excited to share a few photos from the Diocesan Renewal Planning Day at St. Mary’s Parish in Brooks! This gathering marks Step 2 in the Parish Planning Process happening across the Diocese of Calgary, as parishes prepare their Parish Renewal Plan for submission in June 2025. During this step, each ministry area contributes Ministry Renewal and Spiritual Growth Action Items to their parish’s plan—through prayer, planning, and meaningful conversations. Bonnie Annicchiarico from the Diocesan Renewal Leadership Team was present at the planning day and expressed deep gratitude to the Parish Renewal Team for leading an excellent day of prayer, conversation in the Spirit, planning, and listening. “We’re off and running,” she said, “and your leadership is so appreciated. God bless you all!” To accompany the parish planning day, Fr. Eli Cañete led 15 hours of Adoration—inviting the Holy Spirit to guide St. Mary’s renewal journey. His prayerful presence and active involvement throughout the day were a powerful witness of pastoral leadership and support. To get a glimpse of what their Parish Planning Day looks like, see the photos below. 
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I recently completed an internship at the Roman Catholic Diocese of Calgary Archives, located at the Catholic Pastoral Centre. This experience was truly amazing. I met many kind people and learned countless valuable lessons that will help me in my future endeavours. I initially didn’t know what to expect from this position because I was unfamiliar with the work in archives. I thought I would mainly sort through and organize historical documents, but my expectations quickly changed when we began receiving research requests and blueprint maps from St. Boniface's Parish in Calgary. When I started working with artifacts and vestments, my expectations shifted once again; I had no idea the archives also stored artifacts. My internship has been an eye-opening experience. Working at a place where historical documents and artifacts are preserved has made me realize that archives are not merely repositories of the past. Instead, they are dynamic resources that serve the present and future. This experience showed me that archives play a crucial role in our society. Without documentation of the past, we would lack the information necessary to guide and shape our future. I believe that if more people understood this, archives would gain recognition and be celebrated as an essential foundation of our collective public history. The community atmosphere at the Catholic Pastoral Centre was refreshing. I witnessed employees actively discussing Pastoral Renewal and the Catholic state of affairs in our Diocese. This conversation was unique and inspiring, demonstrating their deep passion for both their work and faith. One of the goals of Pastoral Renewal is to engage with youth meaningfully, and I can wholeheartedly say that this internship at the Pastoral Centre granted me that privilege. I’m sure that many future youth (and past interns, including myself) will appreciate the opportunity to engage with our Diocese and grow spiritually and personally. By offering internships at the Archives, the Diocese welcomes new audiences and provides young people with a meaningful way to connect with our Catholic community. I had the wonderful opportunity to interview Bishop McGrattan, and he shared insightful advice for all young people: “Freedom is a gift, and you have to have the confidence to know that God wants us to respond to that free gift and to shape it, and not to have timidity or the lack of confidence.” As young people, we should embrace our freedom fully and confidently seize the opportunities God places before us. Beyond the practical experience I gained at the archives, I learned many valuable lessons about dialogue and conversation, which play an important role in Catholic life. It is crucial to have meaningful and productive conversations with one another, allowing for discernment of the truth. The Archives are more than just a collection of old documents; they are a space where people can actively participate in the pursuit of historical knowledge, personal growth, and form meaningful connections. The archives also serve as a valuable resource for discovering information about family members and loved ones. Marianna Kalaczynski, the Archivist, regularly engages in conversations with a wide range of people, fostering an environment of communication that extends beyond the Catholic community. The Catholic Pastoral Centre and our Diocese continue to grow, along with the rich exchange of ideas and perspectives that strengthen their sense of interfaith dialogue. I have undoubtedly seen the values of Pastoral Renewal demonstrated within our Diocese, even in such an unexpected place as the Archives. I’m already looking forward to the next time I can volunteer. This experience has been truly amazing, and I’ll be forever grateful for the opportunity to have been part of it.
This Jubilee year our Share Lent theme is Turn Debt into Hope It is part of a worldwide campaign to cancel unjust debt and free some of the poorest people from its chains. Lent is a time of conversion that invites us to draw closer to God. Now as we intensify our efforts at the approach of Easter, as we anticipate the joy of the resurrection, let us redouble our efforts to work for justice. We still have time to respond to the call of Jesus, to Jubilee, and of Pope Francis, to seek the good for our sisters and brothers in the Global South. Pope Francis has called us to be ‘Pilgrims of Hope’ in solidarity with those who are burdened with unjust debt, that they neither asked for or are benefitting from.
 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
 “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. 
 With an election call on April 28, Bishop McGrattan is calling on Christians to get involved in the electoral process. (Canva) 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.
Ryan is a passionate and proven leader with a heart that aches for renewal in our parishes and for evangelization, so that all may experience the healing love of Christ. After a life changing encounter with the Lord in his early twenties, Ryan spent two years in formation with the Companions of the Cross, followed by the completion of a Bachelor of Philosophy degree and a Master of Arts degree in Philosophy from Dominican University College in Ottawa. He won the Governor General’s Medal for each of those degrees.
Over the past 20 years through roles in the public and private sector as well as corporate and community organizations Ryan has become a trusted leader who has led positive transformational change. From senior advisory roles to federal cabinet ministers to corporate roles in charge of government and aboriginal relations, business development and mergers & acquisitions, Ryan developed, led and executed on key strategies. Most recently, Ryan spent the last six years as CEO of the Strathmore & District Agricultural Society (Strathmore Stampede) where he has led the transformation and renewal of the Society for its 400+ employees and volunteers. Ryan is most proud of his prominent role in negotiating and coordinating the Government of Canada’s formal Apology to former students of the Indian Residential School Systems, developing the Kent Hills 3 Wind Project, as well as establishing the Cowboy Town Concert Series, founding Canada’s largest Rodeo School, and the construction of Infield Suites at the Strathmore Stampede. Ryan attributes the accomplishment of these projects to prioritizing and focusing on relationships and people. Throughout his professional career, Ryan has prioritized his and his family’s relationships with Christ and has focused his efforts on evangelization and spiritual growth for men, establishing new ministries in each area. He believes that his own formation, experience and education have all been part of a plan to prepare him as a leader to assist with renewal in the Calgary diocese. He is currently a parishioner at Sacred Heart Parish in Strathmore and he and his wife raise their four children on a small farm outside of town.  The Information Session crowd at St. Albert the Great Parish last Feb 9, 2025. 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
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Catholic Pastoral Centre Staff and Guest Writers Archives
July 2025
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